How to get from Tangier to Dakhla
The journey between Tangier and Dakhla covers an impressive distance of nearly 2 000 kilometres, making it one of the longest and most spectacular routes in Morocco.
This considerable distance crosses the entire kingdom, offering an initiatory journey through the many facets of contemporary Morocco. Planning this trip requires careful consideration of travel priorities, time constraints and available resources.
By plane
Air travel remains the fastest and most recommended way to cover the distance between Tangier and Dakhla, despite the lack of a direct connection. Travellers usually have to transit through Casablanca, the kingdom’s main air hub, turning the journey into a 6 to 12 hour experience depending on connections.
Departures are from Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport to Dakhla Airport, a modern facility reflecting the Tangier region’s ambition for development. Named after the famous Maghreb explorer, this hub symbolises Tangier’s openness to the world and facilitates international connections.
Flights are mainly operated by Royal Air Maroc, with one-way fares ranging from 200 to 400 € (or 2 000 to 4 000 MAD). All itineraries include a stopover in Casablanca, usually lasting a few hours. It is therefore important to take this into account, as it can extend the total duration of your journey and impact your stay.
The stopover in Casablanca, although necessary, can be seen as an opportunity for further discovery or as a constraint, depending on the traveller’s perspective. Casablanca’s Mohammed V Airport offers all the services necessary for a comfortable transition, including restaurants, shops and rest areas.
By bus
Coach transport is the most affordable option, with fares ranging from 90 to 130 € (900 to 1 350 MAD) for a 35 to 40 hour journey. This exceptional duration makes this route one of the longest land connections in the Moroccan transport network.
The main operators include CTM, the national benchmark for long-distance travel, and Supratours, a subsidiary of ONCF specialising in extended rail connections. These companies offer different levels of service, from standard to premium, tailored to the diverse requirements of travellers.
Departures are organised from specialised bus stations in Tangier, which are dedicated to long-distance connections. These platforms offer essential services: ticket office, waiting room, basic catering and luggage storage.
The route usually passes through Casablanca or Agadir, allowing for extended breaks and the opportunity to explore these major cities. These stops offer the chance to eat, rest and experience Morocco’s urban diversity.
The comfort of the vehicles varies depending on the company and the class of service selected. Modern coaches offer air conditioning, reclining seats, on-board toilets and entertainment systems. Some premium companies include snacks and drinks in their service.
This option offers the unique advantage of discovering the whole of Morocco gradually, allowing you to immerse yourself completely in the diversity of the country’s landscapes and regional cultures. The journey itself becomes an experience, revealing the kingdom’s geographical and climatic transitions.
By car
Travelling by car is the ultimate adventure for discovering the Tangier-Dakhla route in all its splendour. This option offers complete freedom to explore, allowing you to adapt your pace, stops and detours according to your discoveries and inspirations of the moment.
The distance of approximately 1,950 kilometres requires between 20 and 24 hours of actual driving, not including essential breaks for rest, meals and exploring remarkable sites. This estimate assumes favourable road conditions and continuous driving, which is not realistic in practice.
The associated costs include fuel, estimated at between 220 and 250 € (2 300 to MAD 2 600), any tolls and vehicle wear and tear. This estimate varies depending on the type of vehicle, fuel prices and driving habits.
The route passes through some exceptional regions: the Rif hills, the Atlantic plains, the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, the pre-Saharan oases and finally the desert expanses of the Western Sahara. This geographical diversity offers a unique overview of Morocco’s rich territory.
Driving conditions change drastically between departure and arrival: European roads in Tangier, modern motorways in the centre, occasional tracks in the south. This variety requires constant adaptation of driving style and particular vigilance.
Preparing the vehicle is crucial for this adventure. Checking the mechanical systems, stocking up on spare parts, and bringing basic tools and safety equipment will ensure a smooth and safe experience.