Dragon Island

Dragon Island is a small island of sand, rock and shells in the middle of the Dakhla lagoon. Its long, ridged outline looks like a sleeping dragon from the shore, which gave it its name. At low tide the shallows around it turn a vivid turquoise, and it is one of the most photographed spots in the south.

The island has no buildings or facilities: just sand, rocks and seashells, with the desert shore on one side and open lagoon on the other. Flamingos and other wading birds feed in the shallows nearby.

Visiting

Dragon Island is reached by boat or as part of a 4×4 and boat excursion, which most hotels and kite camps in Dakhla can arrange. Trips are timed with the tide, so let the operator set the schedule. Many combine the island with the White Dune.

• Bring water, sun protection and shoes you can get wet.
• Take everything you bring back with you; there are no bins on the island.
• Kitesurfers often launch downwinders past the island. Only experienced riders should try it, with a boat in support.