Crossing from Western Sahara

Western Sahara is a largely deserted, non-autonomous enclave that is informally ruled by the Saharawi people and unnervingly depicted on the map by dashed lines just below Morocco. Around ten years ago, those trying to cross the Western Sahara had to improvise by driving down the beach (but only during low tide) and digging their car out of the sand every half-kilometer. Now, one can go there with a little less effort and with much more mental energy to soak in the sights: imposing, creamy dunes on one side of the road and exquisite, swerving, Atlantic-carved cliffs on the other, owing to a recently constructed and well paved highway.

One enters a two-kilometer "no-man's land" after crossing the Western Saharan border but before reaching the Mauritanian border. This unpaved stretch of sand and rocks is not maintained by either the Moroccan or Mauritanian governments and serves as both a border crossing and a landfill for old refrigerators. If your heart wasn't already racing, "no man's land" also has the remains of a live minefield that was left behind during a recent territorial dispute. But do not worry; if you simply follow the tire tracks left by earlier bush taxis, Moroccan traders, and overlanders traveling from Europe to Africa, you will safely arrive on the Mauritanian side. So, if you're traveling from Morocco, be sure to enter Mauritania through the Western Sahara. Considering that flights are hazardous for the environment and road trips are equally beautiful and enjoyable.