Dawn of
the Dunes

The Journey

Four days through the golden dunes of M'Hamid El Ghizlane — a perfect introduction to the Sahara. From the High Atlas to the great ergs, this journey combines Morocco's most stunning landscapes with the authentic desert experience that defines Desert Lotus Retreat.

Climb the great dunes at sunset, sleep in a Berber bivouac under a starlit sky, ride camels alongside our nomad guides, and wake at dawn on the golden sands. Every detail is designed for comfort and wonder.

Day by Day Program

• Day 1Departure from Marrakech by private vehicle toward M'Hamid El Ghizlane. Cross the High Atlas via the Tizi n'Tichka pass (2,260 m). Visit the UNESCO-listed Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou. Continue through the Draa Valley. Arrive at the fixed bivouac in the palm grove. Welcome dinner. First night in the desert.
• Day 2Begin camel caravan trek into the desert. Cross vast sandy expanses with views of ancient settlements and pottery fragments — traces of past civilisations. Lunch under the shade of a tree with traditional mint tea. Afternoon visit to the Sidi Naji marabout mausoleum. Bivouac set up between the dunes. Night under the stars.
• Day 3Head toward the orange dunes of Erg Zahar. Pass the former nomadic market, once a hub for caravan trade. Lunch under a tamarisk tree. Reach the spectacular wind-sculpted dunes of Erg Zahar. Climb to the summit for panoramic views. Bivouac in the heart of the dunes. Magical night under the Saharan sky.
• Day 4Final sunrise breakfast atop the dunes. Say farewell to the camels. Return by 4x4 to the fixed bivouac. Transfer toward Marrakech with a lunch stop in Ouarzazate. Arrive in Marrakech in the evening with unforgettable memories.

What's Included

✅ Round-trip transportation from Marrakech or Ouarzazate

✅ A comfortable overnight stay in our traditional desert camp in M'hamid, including dinner and breakfast

✅ An authentic desert experience guided by our local team

✅ Full-board accommodation during your stay (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)

✅ Support and assistance from the Desert Lotus Retreat team throughout your journey.

Not Included

* Optional camel ride for guests who wish to enjoy the desert on camelback (€20 per camel, per day)

* Drinks and meals during the road transfer

* Entrance fees to attractions and monuments

* Personal expenses and tips

* Travel and repatriation insurance.

What to Bring

Light comfortable clothes for walking · Warm layers for cold desert nights · Good hiking shoes · Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) · Light backpack with water · Camera.

How Your Trip Works

We pick you up from your chosen city — Marrakech, Ouarzazate, or Zagora — and take care of everything from there. Your luggage travels by camel so you can walk freely and enjoy every moment.

Nights are spent in nomadic bivouacs sheltered between the dunes. Sleep under a blanket of stars or inside a traditional tent — your choice, every night.

All meals are freshly prepared by your guide team using local ingredients: think Saharan bread baked in the sand, tajines, and endless mint tea around the fire.

Every trip is fully customizable — want to add a 4x4 day, visit a specific dune, or adjust the pace? Just ask.