Wingfoil in Dakhla: The go-to spot
Dakhla has recently established itself as one of the world’s most popular destinations for wingfoiling. This relatively new discipline, which combines kitesurfing, windsurfing and foiling techniques, finds exceptional conditions in this Saharan region that attract enthusiasts from all over the world.
Dakhla’s reputation in the world of water sports is well established. This unique region, where the desert meets the Atlantic Ocean, offers an exceptional natural setting and weather conditions that are particularly favourable for wingfoiling, making this destination a veritable open-air laboratory for riders of all levels.
Exceptional weather conditions for wingfoiling
Wind conditions: Dakhla enjoys remarkably consistent winds throughout the year, a feature that is the main attraction of this destination for wingfoiling. The optimal period is from April to November, when the winds are particularly regular and intense, making them ideal for this sport.
During the summer season, thermal winds can reach and exceed forty knots, offering ideal conditions for experienced riders seeking thrills and high performance. This intensity allows for wingfoiling in sustained planing conditions and the execution of advanced technical manoeuvres.
The winter season has different but equally interesting characteristics, with more moderate winds ranging from fifteen to twenty-five knots. These milder conditions provide the perfect environment for learning and progressing, allowing beginners to get started safely and intermediate practitioners to perfect their technique.
Climate conditions: Dakhla’s climate is particularly favourable for water sports. Air temperatures range from 17 to 29 degrees Celsius depending on the season, creating a comfortable environment for extended wingfoiling sessions.
The water temperature, a crucial factor for the comfort of practitioners, ranges from 17 to 22 degrees Celsius depending on the area and season. This relatively warm ocean water allows for comfortable practice with appropriate thermal protection equipment, without the need for particularly thick wetsuits that could hinder movement.
The geography of wingfoil spots
The Lagoon: An ideal learning environment
The Dakhla region offers a remarkable diversity of spots, catering to the needs and skill levels of all practitioners. The lagoon is one of the major assets of this destination, offering a vast expanse of flat water protected from ocean swells. This unique geographical configuration creates ideal conditions for learning and progressing in wingfoiling.
Among the iconic spots in the lagoon is the area opposite the Océan Vagabond centre, renowned for its stable conditions and ease of access. PK 25 is also a benchmark spot, offering extensive water and consistent wind conditions. La Dune Blanche and La Tour d’Eole complete the range of spots in the lagoon, each with its own characteristics in terms of wind exposure and water depth.
The Heliophora spot deserves special mention for its exceptional conditions and unspoilt environment, making it a prime location for wingfoiling sessions in a remarkable natural setting.
Ocean spots for experienced riders
For experienced riders looking for more technical conditions and more intense sensations, the ocean coast of Dakhla offers remarkable spots. Oum Labouir and La Pointe d’Or are the main destinations for riders wishing to ride the waves of the Atlantic.
Discover the best beaches in Dakhla
These ocean spots offer significantly more challenging conditions, with swells and waves that require advanced technical skills and proven wingfoil experience. The environment is more demanding but offers exceptional riding opportunities for experienced riders.
Infrastructure and services tailored to wingfoiling
Wingfoiling centres
Dakhla has a well-developed infrastructure to accommodate wingfoilers, with numerous specialised centres offering comprehensive services. These establishments generally offer equipment rental suitable for all levels, from beginner equipment to high-end gear for experienced riders.
Among these establishments, we can mention:
- wingfoildakhla.com: Wingfoil and kitesurfing school
- dakhla-evasion.com: Offering complete stays in Dakhla with guidance on wingfoil and kitesurfing
- ION Club Dakhla White Dune Canyon: Offering complete stays in Dakhla with guidance on wingfoil and kitesurfing
Professional supervision is an essential part of what these centres offer, with qualified instructors who can guide beginners as they learn and advise experienced practitioners on how to improve their technique. Wingfoil courses, organised in a variety of formats and lengths, provide a structured and progressive approach to this discipline.
Accommodation and related services
The range of accommodation in Dakhla has expanded considerably to meet the growing needs of visitors. Various options are available, from campsites and budget hostels to high-end establishments, offering something to suit every budget.
Many centres also offer complementary activities that enrich the visitor experience. Yoga, particularly suited to recovery after wingfoil sessions, is a popular activity. Cultural discoveries, including visits to traditional sites and encounters with local people, provide an insight into the cultural richness of this region of Morocco.
Accessibility for all levels
For beginners
Dakhla offers conditions that are particularly favourable for learning wingfoiling. Moderate wind conditions during certain periods of the year, combined with vast expanses of flat water in the lagoon, create a safe and progressive learning environment.
The presence of numerous training centres with qualified instructors guarantees structured and safe learning. Beginners can thus acquire the fundamental technical basics while progressing in optimal conditions, promoting rapid and lasting progress.
For advanced practitioners
Experienced riders will find exceptional conditions in Dakhla to perfect their technique and push their limits. The diversity of spots allows for a variety of experiences, from pure speed sessions in the lagoon to technical rides in the ocean waves.
The sustained wind conditions during the summer season offer unique opportunities to practise advanced tricks and explore the technical limits of the discipline. The exceptional natural environment adds an extra dimension to these high-level sessions.