Marrakech – Nestled between Tan Tan and Tarfaya in Morocco’s southern provinces,  Khenifiss National Park and its stunning lagoon, also known as Naïla, are the eco-tourism gem you didn’t know you were missing.

With prehistoric natural relics,  this natural park r isn’t just a pretty face; it’s a full-on cultural and ecological wonder.

In 1980, Khenifiss Bay got the Ramsar stamp of approval; an “internationally significant wetland,” making it a premier destination in the world of wetlands.

Fast forward to 1998, when the Moroccan Direction of Cultural Heritage added the lagoon to the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list, hinting at a future nomination.

By 2006, the lagoon was officially protected under the newly created Khenifiss National Park.

Khenifiss National Park

Located 200 km north of Laâyoune between Tan Tan and Tarfaya, this national park spans an impressive 185,000 hectares.

Morocco’s premier Saharan park is a natural and biological marvel with huge tourism potential. 

The site features a 20 km-long sea arm, a temporary guelta, and a stunning coastal strip.

With its breathtaking blend of ocean, desert, and lagoon landscapes, Khenifiss National Park stands out for its spectacular beauty. 

The park’s wildlife is equally impressive, hosting numerous globally significant bird species as it serves as a key stopover for migratory birds during the winter months. 

Beyond its ornithological heritage, the park also boasts fascinating archaeological sites.

Naïla Lagoon

Naïla Lagoon, located within the park, boasts a stunning array of biotopes within its desert setting, offering breathtaking vistas. 

The lagoon is home to around 30 algae species and around 70 vascular plants, some of which are endemic and rare. 

The park’s wildlife includes 179 bird species, 27 mammals, 140 marine invertebrates, and 17 reptiles and amphibians.

Among its avian highlights are three globally significant species: the Caspian Tern, the Grey Heron, the Marbled Duck, and the Audouin’s Gull. 

The lagoon is also a crucial stopover for numerous Western Palearctic migratory birds, sometimes hosting over 20,000 waterfowl in winter. Notably, Khenifiss Bay ranks as the world’s second hotspot for flamingos.

Naïla Reserve offers a tranquil retreat, best explored by boat, though you’ll need to plan ahead, as boatmen and vessels are in short supply. 

For fishing enthusiasts, it’s a prime spot to catch sea bass, striped bass, and more. 

Just remember to grab your fishing permit from Akhfenir and stock up on sardines for bait, ideally from Tan-Tan center or along the beach. 

Tips for your trip 

Ready to visit? The good news is that Khenifiss National Park is free entry and is easily accessible off of the major highway to Laayoune. 

Upon arrival, make sure that you pay attention to the advice of local authorities and personnel as to the park closing hours and the best routes to take. Many of the routes around the park are sandy and unpaved – therefore are not advisable to venture without a proper four-wheel-drive vehicle. 

Also, make sure that you look out for signs keeping visitors away from precious bird sanctuary terrain and respect the boundaries when trekking, in order to continue to preserve this natural wonder as a place for prime eco-tourism. 

There are little to know amenities in the park, so make sure you have plenty of water, food, and avoid littering. Day time adventures are welcomed, but there is no camping permitted. 

Finally, the weather in the summer months can get incredibly hot in the Sahara, so consider planning your trip during cooler months to avoid the dangerous heat. 

Have a nice trip!

Forget crowded beaches and overpriced resorts; this lagoon offers a unique mix of serenity and adventure.

Whether you’re cruising in a boat, reeling in the catch of the day, or basking in the hot desert sand, you’ll find that sometimes the best vacations are the ones where you’re not just following the crowd but diving into something truly extraordinary.