Saharan Experiences for Every Traveler

Beyond the captivating architecture of Marrakech, the unexpectedly green Atlas Mountains, the coastal atmosphere of Casablanca, and the bustling markets of Fes, Morocco is also home to the northern outskirts of the Sahara Desert

Tucked away in the rolling sand dunes, far from civilization, travelers can embrace Moroccan culture in comfort at a luxury campsite that also provides an assortment of activities to help curate your immersive sojourn into the Saharan sands.

Discover the country’s past from a unique perspective as you embark on a journey with spectacular views and a fascinating historical narrative – all from the back of a camel. Contrary to popular assumptions, riding a camel is far different from riding a horse. Not only are you perched much higher, but the movement is more of a side-to-side motion, rather than front-to-back. But don’t let this worry you; most say the hardest part is simply getting on and off. Once you’re safely saddled, all you have to do is enjoy. Choose from a quick jaunt or spend hours trekking deep into the desert, perhaps with a picnic lunch or traditional tea break.

For those looking for an adrenaline rush, the hilly composure of the desert creates a perfect playground for ATV biking and sandboarding. Go for a guided tour on your own four-wheel drive vehicle where you can explore the landscape and race along the dunes. Sandboarding is a bit more strenuous but equally rewarding. Climb to the top of the highest dunes, and then, like snowboarding, slide down the golden slopes for a thrilling ride.

Go for a walk through the desert and bask in the golden scenery and soothing tranquility. To add an educational component to your stroll, bring a local guide along to discover even more about the desert ecosystem and the history of the nomadic traders of the Sahara. You may even come across some ancient fossils. To make the experience even more memorable, plan for an evening hike and watch the sun melt seamlessly into the dunes.

After the sun sets, the Saharan sky transforms into a tapestry of stars blanketing the desert. Because of the lack of light pollution, the Sahara Desert is a fantastic place to admire the night sky in all its glory. Immerse yourself in the celestial scenery with some stargazing and learn about constellations and their stories or savor a private dinner under the stars. Finally, enjoy nighttime entertainment highlighting traditional Berber music and dancing while lounging around a campfire. After a day full of adventure, this is the perfect way to end your evening before retiring to your tent for the night.

With these activities, a visit to the Saharan Desert is nothing short of extraordinary. If you find yourself traveling to Morocco in the near future, be sure to take a few extra days to enjoy the seclusion and embrace the adventure of these enchanting dunes.