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Khenifiss National Park

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Animal habitat

Weather…

Khenifiss National Park is located on the Atlantic coast of Morocco in the Tarfaya Province and is one of the country's most significant ecological gems. Officially established in 2006, the park covers a vast area of approximately 185,000 hectares, encompassing diverse landscapes from coastal dunes to desert plateaus. The centerpiece of the park is the Naila Lagoon, a 20-kilometer-long saltwater arm of the sea surrounded by towering sand dunes and salt marshes. This lagoon is the only one of its kind in Morocco and provides a crucial habitat for a variety of threatened species. The park is a haven for birdwatchers, as it hosts tens of thousands of migratory birds during the winter months, including flamingos, spoonbills, and marbled ducks. In addition to its rich birdlife, the park's desert sections support specialized flora and fauna adapted to the Saharan climate. Khenifiss also holds historical interest due to the remains of ancient settlements and trade posts found within its boundaries. Managed with a focus on sustainable ecotourism, the park provides visitors a rare opportunity to experience the untouched beauty of the Sahara-Atlantic coastline while supporting conservation efforts.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	15	16	17	18	20	21	22	23	22	22	19	16
Rain mm	14	19	13	5	6	3	3	10	6	21	24	11

📋 Practical info

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Best season

Khenifiss National Park is best visited in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when temperatures are mild. During these months, migratory birds can be seen in the lagoons and the landscape is at its most beautiful.

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Best time of day

Early morning and late afternoon are when birds are most active, feeding in the lagoons. Dusk also provides fantastic light for photographers and the chance to see desert foxes.

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Etiquette

Stay on marked trails and avoid walking on the dunes to protect the sensitive desert vegetation. Feeding wildlife is prohibited, and all rubbish must be taken with you.

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What to bring

Binoculars are essential for birdwatching in the lagoons. Sun protection, a head covering and plenty of water are especially important as the desert sun is very strong and there is hardly any shade.

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Getting there

Khenifiss National Park is located on Morocco's Atlantic coast, about 60 kilometres south of Tan-Tan. It is accessible via the N1 road, with the final approach on an unpaved track that is passable with a normal car.

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What to expect

Birdwatching requires patience, as the birds are often far out in the lagoons. Find a good spot with a view of the water and stay quiet - the animals will come closer over time.

Geography

Coordinates

28.00000, -12.20000

Facts

Officially designated as a national park in 2006.
Spans a total area of approximately 185,000 hectares.
Contains the unique 20-kilometer-long Naila Lagoon.
Major wintering site for more than 20,000 waterbirds.
Recognized as a Ramsar site since 1980 for its wetlands.
Located in the Tarfaya Province along the Atlantic coast.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Kasumbalesa25 km · SExplore →

Lubambe Copper Mine25 km · SWExplore →

Chililabombwe25 km · SWExplore →

Chingola35 km · WExplore →

Nchanga Stadium36 km · SWExplore →

Mufulira43 km · NWExplore →

Chambishi43 km · WExplore →

Tarfaya Wind Farm56 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Khenifiss National Park (1)

Flamingo spotting 📍 landmark

This nature observation spot in Khenifiss National Park is convenient for watching wild flamingos in their habitat.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What characterizes Khenifiss National Park?

The mix of desert and lagoon landscape.

Can you do boat tours there?

Yes, there are local operators for lagoon tours.

Is the park suitable for camping?

Wild camping is difficult; fixed spots are rare.

What is the best season?

Autumn and winter are climatically the best.

Is there infrastructure for tourists there?

Infrastructure is very simple and minimal.

Khenifiss National Park: where is it located?

Khenifiss National Park is located in Morocco.

Khenifiss National Park: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Jul, Sep.

Khenifiss National Park: why is it worth visiting?

Khenifiss National Park is located on the Atlantic coast of Morocco in the Tarfaya Province and is one of the country's most significant ecological gems.

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