Stretching across a vast swathe of the North African continent, from the Red Sea in the east to the Atlantic in the west, lies one of the most magnificent landscapes on earth: the Sahara Desert. Like gazing into the enormity of a clear night sky, its sheer magnitude is hard to contemplate. It sprawls across over 3.5 million square miles of endless golden sand dunes peppered with the occasional hazy mirage of camel silhouettes appearing on the horizon. If you’ve been searching for the adventure of a lifetime, then this is it.
Choose between several different transport options when travelling to the desert, such as flying from Casablanca or chartering a private plane, but given the spectacular drive along the Tizi-n-Tichka pass we suggest opting for a driver at least one way.
En route to the desert are a number of locations worth visiting, including the World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou, known for its traditional earthen buildings and distinctive colour. Depending on which route you take, we recommend stopping overnight at one of the luxurious Moroccan retreats situated at the gateway to the desert. One of our favourites is the traditional Kasbah of Dar Ahlam, a Relais and Chateaux property renowned for its seclusion and discreet service.
" Climb to the top of a dune and watch the horizon turn slowly orange as the sun peeps over the sandy skyline."
For the next part of the journey, venture into the wilderness in a 4WD vehicle or choose to ride a camel – still one of the best modes of transport across the desert – to the private camp set up exclusively for you. You can opt for an entirely private camp or a location where you can meet with other travellers. Each camp comes equipped with Berber tents, comfortable mattresses, bed linen and shower facilities.
Freshen up and relax when the heat subsides before gathering around the campfire and watching the most epic display so far: the midnight sky in all its shimmering glory. It’s moments like this that you’ll never forget as you take in the open stillness and the natural masterpiece in front of you. Wake early, and with the stars still twinkling above, set off feeling the powdery sand beneath your feet. Climb to the top of a dune and watch the horizon turn slowly orange as the sun peeps over the sandy skyline.
During your time exploring the desert’s wonders, there are a whole host of thrilling activities to experience – from thundering across the flats on horseback to quad biking and dune surfing. For something a little more serene, we can provide a driver to whisk you to a scenic setting for a leisurely picnic.
Besides the desert, there are also opportunities to spend time exploring the dramatic valleys in the deep south. Our expert guides can accompany you to beautiful locations including the Dades Gorge, renowned for its barren landscape dotted with Berber villages, and the imposing cliffs of Todra Gorge surrounded by a palm grove oasis.
Take this journey to one of the greatest mysteries on earth to experience a trip unlike anything you’ve ever witnessed before.
