Dakhla sits about 550 km south of Laayoune on the N1, the main coastal road. The drive from Laayoune takes five to six hours in good conditions — the road is sealed and passes through open desert the whole way, with military checkpoints that require a passport and a stated destination. From Agadir, allow a full day; from Marrakesh, budget two hard driving days or an overnight stop.
By air — Dakhla has an international airport (VIL) receiving direct flights from Casablanca on Royal Air Maroc and, seasonally, charter flights from several European cities. The flight from Casablanca takes about two hours. If you are coming specifically for kitesurfing or windsurfing and have a lot of equipment, check baggage fees carefully — most kite schools in Dakhla can rent everything you need, which may be easier than transporting your own gear.
By bus — CTM and Supratours run daily buses on the Laayoune–Dakhla route. The journey takes nine to ten hours. Buses are generally air-conditioned and on time, though the road is long and featureless. Buy tickets in advance during peak season (December–April).
By shared taxi — Grand taxis cover the Laayoune–Dakhla route, departing when full. Faster than the bus but dependent on finding enough passengers; not guaranteed every day.
Toward Mauritania — If you are continuing south overland to Mauritania, the process is more involved. On arrival in Dakhla, register at the Sûreté Nationale and add your name to the convoy list. Military convoys escort vehicles across the border area twice a week, typically Tuesdays and Fridays. Arrive in Dakhla a day or two before the convoy you intend to join. Private vehicles travel in a group; there is no public transport across this section, and independent travel outside the convoy is not permitted.