Cheap Flights To Dakhla

Dakhla in Western Sahara is currently under Moroccan administration with around 106,000 people living there. It lies on a narrow peninsula that juts into the Atlantic and is well known for its lovely white houses, interesting architecture, time-honoured history and welcoming locals. All these features make it a popular tourist destination. As a city that relies on tourism and fishing, the beaches are a testimony to this and are often frequented by kitesurfers and windsurfers while fishermen offload their boats.

Founded in 1502 by the Spanish settlers, the city was at one point the capital of Rio de Oro, a Spanish Saharan area. Indeed the military fortress and Catholic Cathedral with its lovely park were constructed during Spanish reign and still stand today, being major attractions. Since the city isn't particularly large, it's easy to get around on foot and explore the maze of streets, markets and commercial and residential areas. Other major attractions include an old Spanish lighthouse just off the coast and a fascinating old central mosque.

Top activities are adrenalin-fuelled windsurfing and kitesurfing on the beaches. Visitors can co-incode their trip with the February Dakhla Festival, dubbed the Sea and Desert Festival, which is internationally famous. There's also the Western Sahara International Film Festival and National Festival of Poetry and Hassani Songs, both completely unique.

Things To Do

With a superb outdoor lifestyle, Dakhla can also reveal its interesting history with old Spanish architecture, mosques and monuments to explore.

• Go Kitesurfing

Kitesurfing is immensely popular on the city's beaches, particularly in the northern part of the lagoon. This activity is both affordable and fun and novices are welcome to try it out!

• See the ancient Spanish Cathedral
  The Cathedral is a magnificent example of historic Spanish desert architecture, with its domes, straight lines and curves. Although unused at present, it's a lovely place for photos.

• Visit the old central mosque
  Also built by the Spanish, the old mosque is a simple, whitewashed building in the middle of the city. It's extremely atmospheric and nearby are many cafes and restaurants for a break after visiting.

Calendar Of Events

Dakhala plays host to a good selection of annual festivals and each brings something unique to the table, encompassing local culture and traditions with an individual twist.

• The Dakhla Festival: Dubbed the Sea and Desert Festival, this buzzing event takes place at the end of February and features sporting events, art, music, food and a lot more in a cool, bohemian setting.

• The Western Sahara International Film Festival. This annual event provides entertainment, culture and hope for Western Sahara's refugees, with film screenings, workshops, cultural activities and even a camel race! Visitors can attend this festival, which is held in the city's refugee camp every October.

• The National Festival of Poetry and Hassani Song: This cultural event takes place over 3 days and promotes Hassani poetry and songs with performances by talented national artists.