๐ช๐ญ Western Sahara travel guide
Disputed desert territory โ endless dunes, ghost towns, and Sahrawi refugee camp culture.
Explore Western Sahara on the 3D globe- Capital
- Laayoune (El Aaiรบn)
- Continent
- Africa
- Population
- 600k
- Languages
- Arabic, Spanish
- Currency
- Moroccan Dirham MAD
- Time zone
- UTC+1 (WET)
- Area
- 266,000 kmยฒ
Top places to visit in Western Sahara
- ๐๏ธ Sand Dunes of Dakhla
- ๐ Dakhla Kitesurfing Paradise
- ๐๏ธ Laayoune Old Town
- ๐ช Smara Ruins
- ๐ Sahrawi Refugee Camp (Tindouf)
- ๐ Cabo Bojador Fishing Village
5-day Western Sahara itinerary
Day 1: Laayoune arrival
Old market, Spanish colonial relics, Peace Park.
Day 2: Dakhla
Kitesurfing, lagoon boat trip, dune walks.
Day 3: Smara
Spanish abandoned fort, desert drive.
Day 4: Cabo Bojador
Historical lighthouse, shipwrecks, fishing.
Day 5: Departure
Last mechoui lamb, camel leather souvenir.
How much does it cost to travel in Western Sahara?
| Travel style | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Budget | $30/day |
| Mid-range | $80/day |
| Luxury | $250/day |
| Round-trip flight | $600 |
Rough estimates in US dollars. Prices vary by season and departure city.
Useful phrases for Western Sahara
| English | Local | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello | ุงูุณูุงู ุนูููู | Salam |
| Thank you | ุดูุฑุงู | Shukran |
| Goodbye | ู ุน ุงูุณูุงู ุฉ | Ma'a salama |
| How much? | ุจูู ุ | Bikam? |
What Western Sahara is known for
A strong choice if you enjoy nature.
Western Sahara travel FAQ
How much does a trip to Western Sahara cost per day?
Our estimate is around $30/day on a budget, $80/day mid-range and $250/day for luxury travel, not including international flights.
How many days do you need in Western Sahara?
This guide's route covers 5 days: Laayoune arrival, Dakhla, Smara, Cabo Bojador and Departure.
What are the top things to see in Western Sahara?
Highlights include Sand Dunes of Dakhla, Dakhla Kitesurfing Paradise, Laayoune Old Town and Smara Ruins.
What language and currency are used in Western Sahara?
Languages: Arabic, Spanish. Currency: Moroccan Dirham MAD.
Check your government's travel advice and entry requirements before you book.