Africa
Western Sahara
A desert coast mostly administered by Morocco. Dakhla draws kitesurfers and remote workers; Laayoune is a quiet administrative city. Few services, long distances and a disputed status, but easy via Morocco.
- CurrencyMADUS$1 ≈ DH9.88Details
- English2/5Limited
- PlugsType C, E220 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency19Police 19 · Ambulance 15 · Fire 15
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledTap water is often desalinated and salty; drink bottled water.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedMoroccan law is applied in the administered area; attitudes are conservative and open displays are unwise.Details
- DrivingOn the rightMoroccan rules apply in the administered area: foreign licences and an IDP are accepted, and police checkpoints are frequent.
Where to go in Western Sahara
1 place with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DakhlaCity | 4/5 | $911–1,520 | Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct | — |
When to visit Western Sahara
Dakhla's kite season runs April-September with steady wind; winter is mild and best for desert trips. Summer coast is cool with fog.
Good to know
Entry
- The practical entry is on a flight from Casablanca or Agadir to Dakhla or Laayoune, or by road through Morocco; Moroccan visa rules apply.
- The disputed status means there is no separate visa or border; entry is through Moroccan immigration.
- Land crossings to Mauritania go through Guerguerat, with checks on both sides.
- The area east of the sand wall (berm) and the Algerian border is closed and mined; do not go.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Photographing military sites and checkpoints is prohibited
- Drones and certain devices need authorisation under Moroccan law
Etiquette
- Dress modestly in towns; shoulders and knees covered
- Greet with a handshake and ask after people
- Avoid political discussion about the territory's status
- Tea is offered as hospitality; accepting is polite
Tipping
5-10% in restaurants; small tips for guides and kitesurf staff.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
- Morocco e-visa and entry (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
- UK FCDO travel advice: Morocco
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.