WESTERN SAHARA

When one thinks about the top tourist attractions in Western Sahara, they might automatically assume that they would only be driving over sand dunes and riding on camels. Contrary to common misconception, the Western Sahara area is not a complete wasteland. And given that it is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, one can safely assume that there are refreshing destinations within the territory that would make a trip here a worthwhile endeavor.

A view of Dakhla

El Aaiun is one of the top tourist attractions in Western Sahara. And here, people will get to see a number of historical and recreational sights that would give more meaning to the time they spend in this corner of the world. El Aaiun, otherwise known as Laayoune, was actually a city founded by the Spanish in 1928. But after the Moroccans finally gained controlled of the land, it was then turned into the capital of the Laayoune-Boujdour-Sakia El Hamra Province, which basically accommodates all economic activities in the region.

Now, one of the interesting aspects of Laayoune is the fact that you can distinguish parts of it that were once occupied by the Spaniards and those that were developed by the Moroccans. The city’s old lower town, on the south side, boasts of colonial Spanish architecture – one of which is a 19th century cathedral which is still providing services at present to a handful of residents. Behind it, the Moroccans have built up structures such as Place Mechouar, which hosts four Moroccan inspired towers and the Plais de Justice in the center. There are also a number of Moroccan restaurants and accommodations lining the streets to provide guests nourishment and comfort during their stay.

Smara, Western Sahara

Tarfaya is another one of the top tourist attractions in Western Sahara, located a few miles away from El Aaiun. And it mainly serves as port town to ships that are on their way to Morocco or the Canary islands. It also has a large airfield that serves a French airmail carrier company. And it was here where the French author and pilot Antoine de Saint-Exupery was stationed and inspired to write the popular novella, The Little Prince. Just along the coast is a statue of an airplane as well as a park that commemorates his achievement.

And there is also a 200 year old structure (Castle Dar Mar) about 50 yards off shore that provide guests a unique sightseeing experience. This is on top of a number of floating shipwrecks that were caused by the region’s tumultuous weather and sea conditions. Most of those who visit Tarfaya beach take advantage of its strong currents and winds and indulge in surfing activities as well as sailing. And those who are just interested in swimming are advised to head on out to nearby hotel swimming pools as the water may not be that friendly to average swimmers.