A Luxurious Escape to the Sahara Desert
Roughly the size of the United States and straddling several countries in North Africa, the Sahara Desert is an incredible place to experience the largest hot desert in the world. 2.5 million people inhabit the Sahara (about 1 person per square mile). There are several places throughout Morocco where you can take a desert safari, riding camels or driving in 4×4’s to desert camps. These points of entry are several hours outside Marrakesh, but well worth the effort to get there. When our family visited, our guide told us his grandmother lived a nomadic life in the desert. He and his family would receive word on occasion, from people returning to his town from the desert, on her current whereabouts. It is quite amazing to stand among these vast undulating dunes that stretch much further than the eye can see, in this patch of Africa.
For a luxurious and authentic getaway, Azalaï Life Experience is a company offering luxurious accommodations in the Sahara Desert, as well as on the coast. All are opportunities for guests to be fully immersed in nature in this beautiful country.
Bouchaid Harmouzi, a man passionate for sustainability and the environment, is at the helm of Azalaï life Experience. He utilizes eco-friendly practices, such as recycling water, using only local materials and recycled wood for construction.
The lodge is located in the south of Morocco in the world’s largest palm desert, 9 hours by car from Marrakesh (or a short flight to Zagora and 1-hour drive). if you have the time, it is interesting to drive through the Moroccan landscape and villages, and enjoy a picnic on the way.
Perhaps you want to experience sleeping in luxury tents. The camp is a few hours away (via 4×4) in the Chigaga dunes.
The idea of the desert camp is for guests to feel totally disconnected from the modern world, as desert nomads lived 2,000 years ago, completely immersed in nature. It is literally in the middle of nowhere, under a dark sky, lit only by starlight. There are no other camps nearby, so it is a very private and special experience.
The beach cottage and camp are situated on a beautiful, wild beach near Ouladia, approximately 3 hours from Marrakesh, on the coast. The chef prepares meals from the vegetable garden on the property and fresh locally-caught fish.
Contact: Azalaï Life Experience
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