Caravan by Habitas – Agafay desert, Morocco
Amongst the rocky dunes of the Agafay desert, the camp sits perfectly naturally amongst its surroundings, as though it were part of the landnscape. A tranquil escape from the city, it’s a place to disconnect and relax in the vastness and raw beauty of the fringes of the Sahara, with the towering Atlas Mountains just beyond. Expect no television or phones here, but rather explore by camel or on foot, and spend a lazy afternoon or two by the pool, gazing out over endless dunes.
At night, when the lanterns are lit and the stars come out, it’s pure magic.
For being the perfect escape from the city – it’s a mini oasis in the desert
At A Glance
Glamping
Why We Love It:
For being the perfect escape from the city – it’s a mini oasis in the desert.Style:
Boho Berber chic.Location:
In the Agafay desert, just a 45 drive southwest of Marrakech.Rooms:
20 Berber style tents with en suite bathrooms and terraces, with far reaching views of the desert and Atlas Mountains.Swimming:
Two unheated pools.Children:
Families with children over the age of 11 are most welcome.Accessibility:
There are no specific facilities and the terrain is rugged.Open From:
All year round.rooms
Choose from four sizes of tent – Explorer, Dune, Desert and Atlas – all with views out over the desert and Atlas Mountains from their terraces. Styled on traditional Berber tents and furnished with local rugs and lanterns, comfortable beds (complete with hot water bottles for the colder months) and cushions. Each has its own terrace from which to survey the peace.
food
For a remote camp, the cuisine here is exceptionally delicious. Dine on traditional Moroccan fare, with a heavy Middle Eastern and Berber influence, and thanks to the incredibly talented and well-travelled chef, even a hint of Mexican. Expect local nuts and dates as snacks, produce from the kitchen garden and each morning starts with an à la carte breakfast. Guests eat at communal tables, and a desert picnic is a particular highlight.
activities
The perfect antidote for the bustle of the souks and medina, two or three days in the desert give you a chance to unwind and discover the delights of Berber life. Go on a guided walk through the valleys and dunes, or explore on a quad or mountain bike, horseback or camel. There are day trips into the Atlas Mountains and opportunities to visit Berber villages and a local home. You’ll find wellness programmes and Spa treatments using traditional practices. As night falls, learn about the stars and constellations with the resident astrologist.
family
Agafay is more of a grown up place to stay, but children over the age of 11 are more than welcome. There are no specific facilities, but many of the adventures and experiences will ignite the imaginations of younger guests.
sustainability
Habitas is very aware that with discovery of remote places, comes responsibility, and as such, is committed to fulfilling the UN’s Sustainability Development Goals. The resort is built with minimal environmental impact; there is no single use plastic; waste is composted or recycled; energy is solar powered, and there’s a partnership with a carbon offset and reforestation programme.
Location
Afagay Desert, Morocco
In the Agafay desert, just a 45 drive southwest of Marrakech.
