Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in El Aaiún. Hassan I Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of EUN:
- Can you legally enter Western Sahara? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the MAD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some MAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Hassan I Airport into town:
- Taxi: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Luggage Storage at EUN
Luggage storage options at EUN can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in El Aaiún for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Money & Budget Tips
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in El Aaiún, budget roughly $23 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $8 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to El Aaiún, we’d suggest City Center Walk and Local Market. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at EUN, check out Airport Lounge or Duty Free Shopping to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in El Aaiún, local travelers recommend Local Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Popular Eatery is another popular pick.
Back at EUN, Airport Cafe is the go-to. Terminal Restaurant rounds out your in-terminal options.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and EUN is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into El Aaiún and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, EUN has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in El Aaiún count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave EUN. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.