Western Sahara

The Western Sahara is a disputed territory in North Africa that is mostly controlled by Morocco, but also partially controlled by the Polisario Front (a Sahrawi rebel group that is seeking an independent state). It is very sparsely populated, dominated by the Sahara Desert (who could tell with a name like Western Sahara?), and has a rocky coastline that limits the quality of the beaches.

There is little to see in terms of traditional sights (mining operations do not count), but one can enjoy the cultural experience of interacting with locals (primarily the Sahrawis) in a place that sees very few tourists. Other than that, you will be a close-up witness to one of the world’s longest running low-level disputes. Though there has been a ceasefire since 1991, there are still many active landmines, so take care off of main routes!