It is said that time itself was created out of the sands of the Sahara Desert. When you walk there you walk in the footsteps of those brave souls who have crossed this unforgiving landscape in search of a better life. If you listen closely the voices of those who have called the desert home can be heard whispering in the wind. The hum of life that binds us all. The Sounds Of The Sahara.
Calling all musicians, music enthusiasts, and lovers of rhythm and rhyme.
This very special trip is centered around the musical history and stylings of the people who call the Sahara home. You will be immersed in local music shown to you by those who have passed it down through the generations. Bring you own instruments and equipment and blend your sound with the sounds of the desert to create something utterly unique. Each day you will learn from local musicians, culminating in a visit to a Gnawa music school and cooperative performance on the final night.
You will leave this experience not only with new recordings and inspiration, but a deeper connection to the culture and music of Morocco. Let your guide, Hicham, lead you ever deeper into the desert, which is really deeper into yourself.
You have heard the Call To Adventure and are ready to seek deep experience in the wild lands of the Moroccan Sahara. This trip is designed to provide the most possible chance to connect with land, culture, and yourself.
The Berber people of Northern Africa, along with many other ethnic groups, have moved across the unforgiving terrain of the Sahara desert for thousands of years. This movement was not only out of necessity to move people and goods from place to place, but it was also about the rhythm of life. Caravan people are some of the most connected to the land and nature that exist in the world, and their movement mirrors that of the natural breath of the Earth.
You will wake early in the morning before the sun rises high and begin navigating to the next camp. Walking slowly and deliberately is key to conserve energy and moisture. Midday, when the sun is at its peak it is time to rest. Enjoy fresh food and tea with the group and let the harsh heat of the desert sun pass by. In the afternoon continue the caravan until the sun sets. You will put up camp, cook dinner, and trade stories until you drift off to sleep under the stars. This is the rhythm of the caravan. The rhythm of life itself.
In Morocco there are few people with the skill and experience in the desert that our partner, Hicham El Haddar, possesses. His lineage is of generations of Caravan People who have made their homes in the Sahara for thousands of years. For more than 30 years he has been moving trough the desert and is an officially authorized International Sahara Guide and Expedition Organizer.
From the time your arrive in the country Hicham will ensure that not only are you taken care of, but that every opportunity to connect deeply with the people and the land is given. A grand story teller and expert guide, Hicham has an unmatched way of letting the sand teach each person what they have come to learn and open up your eyes and heart to receive the gifts of immersive, transformational experience.
Simply put, Gnawa is the music of formerly enslaved black Africans who integrated into the Moroccan cultural and social landscape, and founded a model to preserve the traditions and folkloric music of their ancestors. The components of Gnawa songs and dances incorporate references to the singers' origins and enslavement, as well as displacement and misery. They also establish links between members of the community, both who are alive and those who have died.
During this trip you will learn not only the contemporary performance of this music, but the deep roots in African history and the origins and demise of the slave trade in North Africa. It is evident when you watch the musicians play their melodies that there exists a depth of sorrow, a story told through the generations of pain and suffering. There is sadness in the sounds, but also beauty in the resilience of the people.
Marrakesh
Riad Beldi
Your accommodation in Marrakech is Riad Beldi. This is a traditional Moroccan lodging in the “old family house” style that has been completely renovated in the Berber tradition. It is ideally located in one of the oldest districts of the medina of Marrakech. This beautiful place an authentic guest house in Marrakech to enjoy the magic of the Red City. Not far from the Jemaa Lafna square, and the main palmeraie, this riad in Marrakech offers comfort, quiet and a friendly atmosphere.
Merzougha
Riad Azawad
Your lodging in the desert village of Merzougha will be Riad Azawad. This traditional style guest house is ideally situated near the massive sand dunes of the Erg Chebi and boasts a beautiful garden in the center of the riad. With a panoramic view to the golden sand dunes of Erg Chebbi, Riad Azawad’s rooms & suites are an ideal place to enjoy the spirit of the Sahara before and after your caravan.
Caravan
"The Desert Room"
During your caravan you will be participating in the traditional Berber camp as you make your way across the desert. Our guide, Hicham, has over 30 years of experience guiding in the desert and has developed a very special camping method that is not only comfortable, but taps into the true spirit of the nomad. You will have space to enjoy the company of your new and old friends, as well as immerse yourself in the peace and tranquility of the desert. Hicham says the camp is home, “We love the Sahara Desert! This is our peaceful place where we feel at home. This is the home of the nomads. This is the place where we explore the history of humanity and the place where the caravans have been crossing for hundreds of years.” Now your story is part of that history.
After a delicious breakfast of local Moroccan foods you will meet your city guide for the day. You will venture out into the hustle and bustle of the city and see the many sights Marrakech has to offer. Stroll through the Jemma al Finnad, the main square and central place of commerce for the city. Visit the Koutoubia Mosque which is the largest mosque in Morocco. Return to the Riad around lunch time to refuel and meet Hicham for your next adventure.
There are often things that are hidden about a place because it is hard or challenging or perceived as negative. But in the story of any place the scars on history should be acknowledged and understood in the present time. This afternoon Hicham will lead you on a journey into the past to set the energy and intent for the rest of the trip. You will be the special guest of a very special zawiya, which is a religious and educational center that originates from West and Central Africa. Here you will be introduced to the Gnawa culture, a group of West African people who were brought to Northern Africa as slaves. You will be treated to lessons on history and modern cultural impacts of this practice and how it influences culture in Morocco. Hear the beautiful music that originates from the sounds the the slave chains made as the people marched North across the desert.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Dinner
Morocco 
