How to get to Dakhla

Dakhla is situated on a picturesque sandy spit washed by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and is known as a popular resort for lovers of kitesurfing and desert landscapes. If you are planning a trip to Dakhla, it is worth considering logistics in advance, as this remote corner can be reached by both direct flights and ground transport. We have gathered the latest information on how to get to Dakhla to ensure your journey begins as comfortably as possible.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the resort is by air. The city is served by its own Dakhla International Airport (VIL), located just a few kilometres from the city centre and the main leisure areas.

Direct flights from abroad are rare (mostly seasonal flights from Paris or the Canary Islands), so the optimal route is usually planned with a transfer in the major cities of Morocco. The main transit hub is Casablanca: a flight from there to Dakhla takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes and is operated by the national carrier almost daily. There are also flights available from Agadir.

Upon arrival, you can reach your hotel by taking a taxi found at the terminal exit or by booking a transfer in advance. The airport is compact, and formalities are usually completed quickly.

It is not possible to reach Dakhla by train: the railway network is completely absent in this part of the coast. Tracks have not been laid even to neighbouring major cities, such as Laayoune, so this mode of transport is not suitable for route planning.

The railway network ends significantly further north, hundreds of kilometres away from the resort. Tourists who still wish to cover part of the journey by train would have to make a long and tiring transfer to a bus or car, making this logistical option extremely inconvenient and impractical.

A bus journey to this region turns into a true expedition through austere desert landscapes along the Atlantic coast. The most popular and reliable route runs from the city of Laayoune: covering the distance of 540 kilometres takes about 8–10 hours on comfortable coaches operated by CTM or Supratours.

For those travelling from the south, a trip from the Mauritanian city of Nouadhibou, located approximately 400 kilometres from the resort, is an option. The travel time is about 7 hours; however, one should allow significant extra time for border control, while enjoying views of the dunes meeting the ocean along the way.

A car trip to Dakhla becomes an exciting adventure along the famous N1 highway, where the boundless sands of the Sahara meet the waters of the Atlantic. The most popular route is from the north, from the city of Laayoune: the distance of 540 kilometres on quality asphalt is usually covered in 7–8 hours, allowing you to enjoy unique desert scenery.

For travellers heading from the south, the starting point is Nouadhibou: the road from this Mauritanian city spans about 400 kilometres. The journey takes 5–6 hours, but potential delays at the border should be taken into account. The region has a well-developed system of "grand taxis" — older Mercedes vehicles running between settlements; a seat in such a collective taxi is inexpensive, whereas a private transfer will cost significantly more.

A trip to Dakhla promises to be unforgettable thanks to the unique combination of ocean and desert, but it requires certain preparation. To ensure your holiday is as comfortable as possible, we have compiled a list of important recommendations to help you avoid surprises.

1. Clothing and Essentials: It is almost always windy here, so a high-quality windbreaker, a neck gaiter, and sunglasses are mandatory even in warm weather. The sun is very active during the day, so do not forget high SPF cream, and bring a fleece jacket or light coat for cool evenings in the desert.
2. Transport: Within the city limits, it is convenient to move around in small taxis ("petit taxi"), which are easy to hail on the street. For trips to kitesurfing spots or remote lagoon beaches, it is better to rent an SUV or book a transfer through your hotel in advance.
3. Finances: The local currency is the Dirham. Bank cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants, but always carry cash, preferably in small denominations, for paying taxis, shopping at the market, or in small cafes.
4. Health and Safety: The city is calm and hospitable, but drinking tap water is not recommended — please buy bottled water. Pharmacies in the city centre are well-stocked, but it is better to bring specific medications with you.
5. Communication: In addition to local dialects, French is widely spoken. English is understood mainly by instructors at kitesurfing stations and staff at major hotels; communicating in English within the city itself may be more difficult.
6. Local Etiquette: Outside of beach areas and hotels, it is customary to observe a modest dress code, covering shoulders and knees. Greeting people, taking food, or handing over money should be done with the right hand — this is a sign of respect.
7. What to Avoid: It is strictly not recommended to photograph military facilities, police posts, and government buildings. Also, do not drive off established roads into the desert without an experienced guide to avoid getting stuck in the sand.
8. Additional Tip: Do not miss the opportunity to visit the oyster farm on the lagoon shore. The region is famous for its seafood, and here you can taste the freshest oysters at very reasonable prices.

These simple tips will help you adapt faster to the local rhythm of life and focus on the main thing — enjoying the wind, the waves, and the boundless landscapes.