Dakhla, a beautiful week – even without wind !
Even for those that are not watersports fanatics, Dakhla is a very unique and magical destination. I want to write about my experience there and why it was brilliant – even without wind.
I had the opportunity to travel to Dakhla for one week. I have been there several times but this was the first time I had no wind on 4 of my 5 days. My friends and I are not too much into sunbathing so we decided to find out what activities Dakhla has to offer.
On the first day I went stand up paddling and had almost the whole lagoon for myself. I have to say that paddling in the Sahara between dunes and Dragon Island was an absolutely unique experience. It is Difficult to express the feeling in words, but it definitely had something magical and it was actually the first time I really realized the beautiful scenery there.
The second day we heard that there are great fishing trips organized so we signet us up. Departure was in the early afternoon, with the local guide we soon found the places where most of the fish swim around. You don’t have to be an expert fisherman to make a catch here: in less than a Minute we all had success!
Afterwards we all went for an extended swim from the boat and once again arrived at the camp we gave the fish to the cook on duty. Later at the barbecue we enjoyed our own beautifully seasoned fresh fish.
The next day the wind suddenly showed up and we obviously rode from morning to sunset – which naturally led to a completely tired and broken body! 😉
On Day 4 we had a surf trip on the program. I was curious, and knew that Morocco is surely known for a good swell during the winter months. After an hour drive we arrived at a spot called ‘Arich ‘. The location is incredible. Coming from the Sahara you suddenly find this bay full of fishing boats with a stunning long swell. The Left is ideal for beginners and the right with a nice tube for experienced surfers.
The last day it was time for a morning session kite as the wind came through for some 3 hours. In the afternoon it got less again and we took the kayaks for a tour around the Dragon Island. This is an elongated island, in the shape of a Dragon located about half a kilometer from the camp. After good five minutes of kayaking, a group of dolphins arrived and started playing around us. Also the visit to the island was again a wonderful and unique experience.
A range of alternative activities in Dakhla made this short vacation well worth it, even if the wind stayed away for most of the trip. Again and again I am amazed by the magic of this destination and it will not be long – hopefully – before I return to Dakhla!
Written by Alberic
