The first edition of Sahara Fest brings together electronic music, kitesurfing, wingfoiling and desert adventures for just 200 participants.

A first edition between lagoon and desert nights

From 16 to 23 July 2026, the Sahara Fest offers a deliberately intimate week limited to 200 participants. The concept combines board sports, discovering the lagoon, activities in the dunes and electronic music evenings under the stars. Two durations appear in the official communication: a short format from 16 to 20 July and a full experience until 23 July. This distinction matters when booking, because the accommodation, the transfers and the number of access days differ depending on the pass or package chosen.

What the day-by-day programme plans

The 16 July arrival is devoted to settling in, the beach bar and first sessions for early arrivals. The 17 and 18 July combine kite or wingfoil during the day, yoga facing the sea, then the festival at a site announced as secret in the desert. The 19 July puts the White Dune at the centre of the programme, with a downwinder for advanced riders and 4x4 or quad alternatives. On 22 July, a kite regatta, a jump contest and a closing party are set to end the week before the next day's departures.

Choosing your package without getting it wrong

The festival's website offers combinations with several hotels, notably Dakhla Attitude and PK25, as well as transfers and activities. Read the details of the selected product: access to two evenings or the whole week, full board, lessons, equipment rental, excursion and airport transport. An independent rider must also check the storage and security conditions. A beginner is better off booking lessons in advance rather than assuming coaching is included. See our Dakhla Attitude and PK25 Dakhla listings to place the accommodation.

Tips to enjoy the festival without exhausting your stay

Stringing together riding, desert transfers and late nights takes some organisation. Pack warm, closed clothing for the night, protection against the sand, a power bank and a bottle. On the water, do not overestimate your level to join the White Dune downwinder: the route is reserved for experienced riders and depends on the conditions. Also keep a rest margin before the return flight. Finally, the exact venue of some evenings and the shuttle times must be confirmed with the organisation, as they can change with the weather and the logistics.

Planning the rest of your stay in Dakhla

Before booking, compare the total cost, the cancellation terms and the required level. To build a coherent stay, browse our full calendar of events in Dakhla, the accommodation, the restaurants and the activities. The lagoon centres can be far from town: confirm the airport transfers, the shuttles and the board arrangements before departure. A free day also lets you discover the White Dune, Dragon Island or the market without sacrificing the recovery needed for sports activities.

Source and information updates

The dates and services in this article were checked on 11 July 2026 from the source published by Sahara Fest. A programme, a price or an availability can change after our check. Always contact the organiser before buying a plane ticket or booking non-refundable accommodation. Guide de Dakhla does not sell this event and can confirm neither a place, nor the required level, nor that a weather-dependent activity will go ahead.