Best time to travel to Western Sahara

Choosing the right period for your trip to Western Sahara can make all the difference. It's important to consider climatic elements, seasonal events and busy tourist periods to maximize your travel experience.

Photo d'un paysage localisé en Sahara Occidental

Location

Climate

January 9.6→22.9°C
0.1mm
7:53→18:46
February 11→25°C
0.01mm
7:41→19:05
March 13.1→28°C
0.05mm
7:18→19:23
April 15.1→30.3°C
0.16mm
7:05→19:52
May 17.3→33.3°C
0.02mm
6:51→20:12
June 19.4→35.8°C
0.06mm
6:47→20:26
July 22.7→40.4°C
0.01mm
6:57→20:27
August 24→40.4°C
0.05mm
7:13→20:12
September 23→37.4°C
0.2mm
7:27→19:46
October 19.7→32.9°C
0.63mm
7:31→19:07
November 14.5→27.2°C
0.09mm
7:29→18:30
December 11.1→23.7°C
0.07mm
7:49→18:31
9.6→22.9°C
11→25°C
13.1→28°C
15.1→30.3°C
17.3→33.3°C
19.4→35.8°C
22.7→40.4°C
24→40.4°C
23→37.4°C
19.7→32.9°C
14.5→27.2°C
11.1→23.7°C
Jan 7:53→18:46
Feb 7:41→19:05
Mar 7:18→19:23
Apr 7:05→19:52
May 6:51→20:12
Jun 6:47→20:26
Jul 6:57→20:27
Aug 7:13→20:12
Sep 7:27→19:46
Oct 7:31→19:07
Nov 7:29→18:30
Dec 7:49→18:31
0.1mm
0.01mm
0.05mm
0.16mm
0.02mm
0.06mm
0.01mm
0.05mm
0.2mm
0.63mm
0.09mm
0.07mm
The Western Sahara is a prime destination for adventurers and nature lovers. Located in North Africa, this territory offers a unique desert landscape, dotted with oases and rocky plateaus.

The different seasons in Western Sahara

The climate of the Western Sahara is predominantly desert, with wide variations in temperature between day and night. There are generally two seasons: hot and mild.

The hot season

June to September is the hot season in the Western Sahara. During this period, temperatures can reach 50°C during the day, and rarely fall below 30°C at night. Sand winds are also more frequent at this time of year, making travel difficult and uncomfortable. So it's best to avoid traveling to the Western Sahara during the hot season, especially if you're not used to extreme desert conditions.

The mild season

The mild season generally runs from October to May, with milder temperatures and a more pleasant climate for visiting the Western Sahara. Temperatures oscillate between 20°C and 35°C during the day, dropping to between 5°C and 15°C at night. Rainfall is rare in this region, but can occur occasionally during the mild season.

The ideal months to visit Western Sahara

To make the most of your trip to Western Sahara, we advise you to plan your stay between February and April, or between October and November. During these periods, weather conditions are more favorable and the risk of sandstorms is lower. What's more, by traveling outside the peak tourist season, you can avoid the crowds and enjoy a more authentic and intimate trip.
  • February : February marks the start of the mild season in the Western Sahara, with temperatures averaging around 20°C during the day and 10°C at night. It's also an excellent time to observe the local wildlife, especially the migratory birds that take refuge in the desert oases.
  • March - April : March and April offer similar weather conditions to February, with pleasant temperatures and a low risk of precipitation. What's more, in April you can attend the International Festival of Nomads, a major cultural event featuring nomadic music, dance and traditions.
  • October : October marks the end of the hot season and the return of milder temperatures. It's also an ideal time for desert trekking, as the days are still long and the nights cool.
  • November : In November, temperatures continue to drop, offering a pleasant climate for visiting the Western Sahara. The desert landscapes take on magnificent colors, with striking contrasts between golden sand dunes and rocky plateaus.

Major cultural events and public holidays

Western Sahara is rich in cultural events and public holidays, giving you the chance to discover the traditions and way of life of the local people. Here are just a few of the must-see events not to be missed during your stay:
  • The International Festival of Nomads : This festival usually takes place in April, in the M'Hamid El Ghizlane region. It brings together artists and spectators from all over the world to celebrate nomadic culture. The program includes concerts, dance performances, craft workshops, conferences and film screenings.
  • National Day : January 12 is a public holiday in Western Sahara, commemorating the entry into force of the Madrid Accords in 1976. Celebrations include military parades, official speeches and popular festivities.
  • Ramadan: This is the holy month of fasting for Muslims, which takes place on a date that varies according to the Islamic calendar. During this period, business opening hours are modified and some activities may be limited. However, you can still enjoy evening festivities and convivial meals during Ramadan nights.
  • Eid al-Fitr: At the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid el-Fitr, which marks the breaking of the fast. It's a time for sharing meals with family, exchanging gifts and taking part in collective prayers. The festival is also marked by entertainment and shows in towns and villages.

Insurance

Your credit card does not cover you in all situations, that is whyIt is essential to take out insurance before you leave to avoid any unpleasant surprises. If you need to see a doctor or be hospitalized, in some countries, medical costs are very high and you will then find yourself having to pay several thousand euros.

Our partner Chapka Insurance proposes the contract CAP ASSISTANCE 24/24 with many essential guarantees.

Flights

Your flight has been cancelled or delayed ?
You may be eligible for a compensation of up to €600 ! For this, lawyers are responsible for handling your claim with the airline and are only paid when the reimbursement is effective.

In conclusion, no financial risk for you, only advantages!

The most popular visas for Western Sahara

There are different types of visa available for those wishing to enter Western Sahara, each corresponding to a specific category of traveler. Here are the most commonly requested visas:
  • Tourist visas Tourist visas: as their name suggests, these visas are intended for people wishing to visit Western Sahara for tourism purposes. They are generally valid for a limited period and do not allow the holder to work or study in the country.
  • Work visas These visas are issued to foreign workers employed by local or international companies in Western Sahara. The period of validity of these visas generally depends on the duration of the employment contract.
  • Business visas The visa is intended for entrepreneurs, investors and other professionals traveling to Western Sahara for business purposes. They also allow holders to take part in conferences, training courses or business meetings.
  • Student visas Visa: These visas are intended for foreign students enrolled in higher education institutions in Western Sahara. The period of validity of these visas varies according to the length of the study program.
  • Asylum applications Western Sahara is also home to a large number of asylum seekers and refugees from various African and Middle Eastern countries. These people generally seek international protection because of conflict, violence or persecution in their home countries.

Key figures on immigration and asylum applications in Western Sahara

Because of its strategic geographical location and its historical and cultural links with West Africa and the Mediterranean, Western Sahara is often at the center of discussions on migration issues. Here are some key figures on immigration and asylum applications in this territory:
  • The total number of international migrants in Western Sahara has risen steadily in recent years, from a few thousand to several tens of thousands.
  • The main countries of origin of migrants to Western Sahara are neighboring West African countries such as Mali, Mauritania and Senegal. Many migrants also come from other parts of Africa, notably the North and East.
  • The number of asylum applications lodged in Western Sahara has risen significantly in recent years, mainly due to conflicts and humanitarian crises in Africa and the Middle East. Asylum seekers mainly come from countries such as Syria, Eritrea, Sudan and Somalia.

Acceptance rate for asylum applications

The acceptance rate for asylum applications in Western Sahara varies according to the different groups of applicants and the political and security situation in their countries of origin. In general, acceptance rates are higher for people from countries experiencing conflict or serious human rights violations.

International tourism figures for Western Sahara

In addition to immigration and asylum issues, Western Sahara has also become an increasingly popular tourist destination for international travellers. Here are a few facts about international tourism in this territory:
  • The total number of international tourists visiting Western Sahara has risen significantly in recent years, from a few thousand to several tens of thousands a year.
  • The main countries of origin for international tourists are Europe, in particular the United States. France and theSpainas well as UNITED STATES and the Canada. Visitors also come from other countries in Africa, the Middle East and Asia.
  • Western Sahara's most popular tourist attractions include its picturesque beaches, historical and cultural sites, as well as its national parks and nature reserves.

Economic impact of tourism on Western Sahara

The tourism sector plays an important role in the economy of Western Sahara, contributing to job creation, economic growth and infrastructure development. Tourism is also an important source of income for many local communities, and helps to strengthen cultural exchanges and links between different population groups.