Private Tour To Imlili Natural And Human History

Discover the nature, history and culture of the desert around Dakhla, with focus on the truly unique Sebkha of Imlili. Come with us for a mildly intense, low-paced adventure during which we’ll search for the tracks left by desert animals, look for desert birds, explore the geology and evolution of a spectacular and fragile ecosystem, learn about the ancient and recent history of the site, look for fossils and neolithic tools, and experience highlights of the local culture. Wondering why Imlili is so important? Our guide will tease you offering small clues throughout the first part of the journey, building up a climax that will eventually be resolved once at the sebkha and will be further complemented with observations on the way back.

Important note: The Sebkha of Imili is a unique and fragile ecosystem to be visited with respect and care – we will not allow our guests to “feed the fish”, nor to bath or have “fish pedicure” (also as per local rules).

Overview of the Dakhla Bay. About 30 minutes into our journey (depending on the location of your hotel), we will stop at a high-ground vantage point for a stunning view over the Bay of Dakhla, the White Dune and the so-called “Secret Spot” (which, time permitting, we will visit on the way back to your hotel). The “Secret Spot” is one of the most important wetlands of the Dakhla bay, with an incredible variety of plants (including some living in the water!), birds and marine animals. This brief pause will provide the first important clues on the natural history of the region and of the Sebkha of Imlili, in particular. After this brief stop we will continue along the coastal road for about 40 minutes, passing by the village of Argoub and overlooking the bay of Dakhla for its entire length.

While everyone goes straight to the sebkha of Imlili, the desert around it truly deserves to be explored. We will therefore follow a longer itinerary and visit different sites chosen for their botanic, geological and historical value (not to mention the amazing landscapes, ranging from rocky cliffs to barren ground dotted with bushes and acacia trees!). Depending on season and recent weather conditions, we may be lucky enough to see dozens of flowering plants or spot desert and migratory birds. We will also look for traces of prehistoric (Neolithic) and recent human presence, and go further back in time identifying different fossils found within and around rocks.

Sebkha of Imlili. Welcome to a truly unique natural wonder, which we will visit respectfully and at a slow pace. We will initially take our time identifying clues that add to those found at the “Secret Spot” and will eventually help us understand how this amazing site was formed. We will therefore learn about the plants and geology of the site, and finally get to the famous salt-water pools containing very special fish. How come we have fish in the middle of the desert? This is where all clues get together to finally unveil the incredible story of the Sebkha of Imlili!

Focus on: the wetland side of Imlili, and a bit of culture. After exploring the water pools, we will move to a different area of the sebkha to enjoy a completely different type of scenery – it’s wetland side! That’s why the sebkha of Imlili is a proud Ramsar site, i.e. it is part of the international network for the protection of wetlands. By now we will also be quite hungry, hence it’s time for a home-made pic-nic under a Saharawi tent, without forgetting a much welcome Saharawi tea. Here we’ll learn about the local culture, including why this tea is so special and how tents are made.

Beach of Puerto Rico. What’s better than a bit of sea breeze after so much desert? Approximately 20 minutes into our way back from Imlili we will make a quick stop at the famed beach of Puerto Rico.

Secret Spot (approx 40 minutes from the beach of Puerto Rico). Time permitting, we will end our itinerary visiting the beach of the “Secret Spot”, which we saw from above at the beginning of our journey. This will allow us to close the circle connecting the last dots about the natural and geological history of Imlili, and to enjoy a peaceful shore rich in colours and birds.

We will then bring you back to your hotel, likely late in the afternoon.

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Service animals allowed
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

• Private Tour To Imlili Natural And Human History
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Please be advised..

• This Tour is Provided by Dakhla Rovers Sarl.
• Tour Timezone & Starts at Africa/Casablanca.
• Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
• This Tour is Rated 5 Stars based on 7 valid reviews on TRIPADVISOR.
• Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
• Maximum 4 Travelers is accepted for booking.