The wind has dropped for a few days in Dakhla? No need to worry - a wealth of activities awaits between desert and ocean to match your every desire and fill your holiday days with unforgettable memories.
Enjoy a horse ride at any time of day
Tempted to discover the magnificent landscapes of the Sahara at the pace of a beautiful Arabian-Barb horse? Choose your horse ride in Dakhla with the Ranch des Dunes.
During your equestrian escape, you will cross deserted beaches bordered by the roaring Atlantic, flat-topped natural mountains, impressive cliffs, beautiful dunes, the renowned lagoon with its white sand and colourful kitesurf sails, as well as the majestic desert stretching as far as the eye can see, transporting you to the other side of the world.
Dakhla’s beaches, bordered by the ocean and excellent terrain for horses, allow you to let them gallop at full speed for truly legendary moments. Experienced riders will relish every stride, but beginners are equally welcome, as the horses at Ranch des Dunes, who are cared for with the utmost attention, adapt to all levels - from confident riders to complete novices.
Don’t wait any longer to live an exceptional moment, guided by a professional and caring team!
Reach Dragon Island by paddleboard
Dragon Island owes its name to its shape, which is reminiscent of a crocodile’s silhouette - or, more mystically, a dragon whose wings have taken flight. It is one of the most iconic sites in Dakhla, both for its turquoise waters and its exceptional panorama.
When the wind dies down, the lagoon becomes remarkably flat, making it perfect for reaching the island by paddleboard for a sporty and refreshing adventure. It is also possible to get there by catamaran or motorboat; the crossing is pleasant, easy, and accessible to all. Once you arrive at the heart of this deserted island, where nature reigns in silence, you can explore beautiful beaches perfect for a swim, or climb to the summit to enjoy one of the finest viewpoints in the area: a sweeping 360° view over the lagoon and the endless desert.
If you fancy disconnecting, you can hire paddleboards at most hotels along the lagoon around PK25. For catamarans, contact Sahara Sailing, and for motorboats, the hotels of the Dakhla Hospitality Group.
Plan a fishing excursion
Fishing is one of the main economic activities in Dakhla, thanks to its nutrient-rich waters that attract a high concentration of fish between the lagoon and the ocean. The region is home to skilled and knowledgeable fishermen who will be delighted to take you out for a more peaceful adventure, with all the patience and serenity that surfcasting or sport fishing requires.
By boat or directly from the beach, several options are available depending on your preferences and the size of your group. Embark on a unique, accessible, and authentic cultural experience suited to everyone!
Treat yourself to a hammam and massage
Going to the hammam is an age-old tradition that is an essential part of life in Maghreb countries. This wellness ritual, designed to cleanse the skin deeply - and in some ways, the soul - is a very common practice in the daily life of Dakhla’s inhabitants. Using steam, a special kessa glove, and black soap, your skin is exfoliated, cleansed, and left softer than ever before.
Depending on the type of hammam you choose, a therapist will perform this treatment with varying additional products, always in the spirit of greater serenity and relaxation. For the most complete experience, your hammam can be combined with a relaxing or deep-tissue massage. So slow down, breathe, and take advantage of your stay in this beautiful desert to surrender to these wonderfully soothing local traditions.
Many hotels offer spas on-site, and independent establishments can also be found in town. Some less touristy ones may be single-sex, so it is worth checking in advance what type of clientele they cater to.
Discover the desert at the pace of a dromedary
Fancy taking advantage of the lull in the wind to experience a camel ride in Dakhla? Discover the dromedary ride at Ranch des Dunes. These iconic desert animals are often mistakenly called “camels” - dromedaries have just one hump, not two.
Dakhla, nestled between ocean and desert, is the perfect setting for this unique ride. Set off on an immersive adventure through the Moroccan Sahara, at the slow and soothing pace of the dromedary, dressed in a traditional Sahrawi outfit (djellaba and chèche). These majestic, calm, and powerful companions will lead you through spectacular landscapes of cliffs and ocean. A camel ride in Dakhla - or rather a dromedary ride - is the ideal opportunity to feel the full serenity of the desert, cradled by silence and the elements. This gentle experience is accessible to all, whether you choose to enjoy it in an intimate group or with a larger party. Couples, families, or groups of friends - this moment will delight young and old alike!
These rides can be organised at any time of day, with a special fondness for the hours when the sun sets into the ocean, bathed in the soft golden hues of that magical moment.
Glide through the desert in silence and with zero ecological impact
Craving thrills but drawn to the quiet of the desert? Does speed excite you, but not the noise or the emissions? These two activities were made for you!
The electric motorbike with Beecross will let you escape through Dakhla’s spectacular landscapes - endless dunes, wild tracks, unspoilt places - the desert will hold no more secrets, all in absolute silence for a total immersion in nature.
The sand yacht with Surfis will take you on a unique desert adventure in Dakhla, combining the pleasure of sailing with the excitement of off-road racing. Their experienced team will guide you through a memorable journey, rich in adrenaline and sensations. Thanks to easy-to-learn techniques, you can master the sand yacht in just 20 minutes, whatever the wind conditions.
For both activities, novices and experts are equally welcome - only a minimum height is required.
Book a paintball session
Dakhla Quads & Event opened a paintball ground in 2025 in the Dakhla desert, adding a new fun and sporting activity to the region’s offer. Strategic thinking, quick decision-making, effective action - you will burn energy and have a great time while strengthening bonds within your group, whether friends or family. As well as being ideal for switching off, paintball offers a new way to experience an adrenaline rush in an activity that is accessible to all!
Surf the waves of the Atlantic Ocean
When the wind eases in Dakhla, conditions become ideal for enjoying the region’s beautiful waves, which have nothing to envy those of northern Morocco. Four spots, far from overcrowded, will delight beginners and experts alike. The best period runs from November to March, but pleasant conditions can emerge throughout the rest of the year depending on the swell forecast for the Ocean and the wind.
Depending on your needs and preferences, you can take lessons or simply rent a board. Fixed watersports centres offering these services exist at the main spots, as well as mobile surf schools.
Jet ski, towable tube or wakeboard
Wind at a standstill, a calm lagoon and exceptionally flat water - what better conditions to enjoy a jet ski ride, a wakeboard session, or a towable tube adventure? Adrenaline, fun, and exceptional gliding sensations are guaranteed! Some activities can even be enjoyed by the whole family.
Ask your accommodation for the most suitable options available to you in this area.
Play a game of padel
Are you at least 4 people, looking to work on your cardio and burn off some energy while having fun? Dakhla Attitude offers two padel courts - an accessible and enjoyable sport - so you can let off steam while improving your coordination and reflexes. A great alternative when the wind isn’t blowing enough, or as a warm-up before other activities.
Courts are available on reservation directly with the hotel, and are open every day from 10am to 7pm. For more information: Dakhla Attitude Padel
