Dakhla activities price
How Much Does a Boat Trip to Dragon Island Cost in Dakhla? (2026)
A trip to Dragon Island (Île Herné) in Dakhla Bay costs 150–1,100 MAD per person. Short low-tide zodiac shuttles cost 150–250 MAD, standard motorboat tours with an Oyster Farm stop cost 300–600 MAD, and premium catamaran sailing excursions with drinks and aperitifs cost 650–1,100 MAD.
Dragon Island (*Île Herné*) is a deserted, dragon-shaped limestone island sitting in the middle of Dakhla's turquoise lagoon. A boat or catamaran cruise across the bay is the premier non-kitesurfing excursion in Dakhla, offering opportunities to spot wild pink flamingos, migratory birds, and occasionally bottle-nosed dolphins.
Excursions range from quick zodiac transfers at low tide to full 4-hour luxury catamaran cruises that combine island hiking, natural white clay baths, and fresh oyster tasting at the lagoon's famous shellfish farm.
Dakhla boat & catamaran trip to dragon island prices
Compare basic terrace access against guided experiences.
| Option | Price | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Low-Tide Zodiac Shuttle | ... | Short water taxi or zodiac crossing from PK25 / Dakhla Attitude lagoon shores directly to the island sandbar. |
| Standard Motorboat Tour + Oyster Farm Stop | ... | 2- to 3-hour speed boat or rib excursion covering Dragon Island, flamingo sandbanks, and a stop at the Dakhla Oyster Farm. |
| Luxury Catamaran Cruise (with Drinks & Snacks) | ... | 4-hour catamaran sailing experience across Dakhla Bay, featuring lounge decks, swimming stops, hot/cold beverages, and fresh fruit/seafood aperitifs. |
Per person, in MAD.
Usually included
- Boat or catamaran lagoon transport to and from Dragon Island
- Guided stop on Dragon Island to climb the viewpoint and try natural clay face masks
- Life jackets and safety equipment
- Hot tea, coffee, cold drinks, and fruit/snack platters (catamaran tier)
Usually extra
- Hotel transfer from Dakhla town or distant camps like Lassarga (+100–200 MAD if not staying near PK25)
- Fresh oysters/seafood lunch at the Oyster Farm (approx. 6–8 MAD per fresh oyster)
- Tips for the boat captain and crew
What actually changes the price
Tide Dependence
At high tide, boats can sail close to the island for deep-water swimming. At low tide, extensive sandbars emerge, allowing visitors to walk far into the shallow lagoon and collect natural white clay.
Embarkation Point & Hotel Transfers
Most boats depart from the PK25 / Dakhla Attitude lagoon zone. If you are staying at PK25 camps, transport to the boat is free; if staying in Dakhla town (28 km away), budget an extra 150 MAD for a taxi round-trip.
Wind Conditions
Dakhla is famously windy. Morning departures generally offer calmer waters for smooth boat rides, whereas late afternoon trips face stronger thermal winds preferred by wind-seekers.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a boat trip to Dragon Island cost in Dakhla?
Basic zodiac shuttles cost 150–250 MAD; guided motorboat trips including an Oyster Farm stop cost 300–600 MAD; half-day catamaran sailing tours cost 650–1,100 MAD per person.
What is special about Dragon Island in Dakhla?
Named for its dragon-like outline when viewed from above, the uninhabited island features white limestone cliffs, panoramic views of Dakhla lagoon, pink flamingos, and natural clay spots used as therapeutic skin masks.
Can you visit Dragon Island without a boat?
During extreme low tide, it is physically possible to wade across shallow sandbars from certain lagoon camps, but hiring a local zodiac or boat (150 MAD) is strongly advised due to fast-shifting currents and rising tides.