Aren’t we all looking for these once in a lifetime experiences that you still talk about years and years later?
Those special moments that bring deep insight and realisations about yourself and the world that can drastically alter your choices going forward. Those special moments that make you realise that true wealth is not the money you have but the discoveries you make.
“Water washes the body, but the Sahara washes the soul”, Houssine says to me. Houssine is our local Moroccan host and trusted friend who has traveled the dunes of Chiegaga all his life. “Spending time in the Sahara is like a purification for the senses. Everything becomes so clear and obvious”, he adds and pauses.
I listen to the silence and suddenly notice its vastness like I never have before. I close my eyes and sink into stillness. It makes me feel calm and trusting. There are no distractions; there is nothing to do and nowhere to go. Minutes could be hours passing. I take a deep sigh and smile at Houssine. He smiles back and nods.
I get it.
Ever since my first encounter with Houssine I have returned to the Sahara desert with him yearly. I have learned that some things cannot be described with words, just like some experiences are only made to be felt in the very moment.
Some places are calling us home. For home is not a place but a feeling.
Some .. makes us remember what this life is all about.
My experience in the Sahara desert shifted many of my priorities. I felt the importance of returning to places that have meaning to me rather than always visiting new ones. And I felt inspired to share some of these special places with other people. So we would not travel as tourists, but as pilgrims that honour the connection to land, people, culture, tradition and Self.
Visit the Sahara with us!
Good to know
Erg Chigaga Dunes, Morocco
Erg Chigaga is the largest and still untouched of the major dunes in Morocco. Because it is relatively difficult to access, Erg Chigaga remains significantly less visited than other areas. For this reason Erg Chigaga is considered more purist and overall reputed a beloved set by adventure travelers and artists. Starting from the oasis of M’hamid it is possible to reach the dunes area by off-road vehicle, by camel and by off-road motorbike along an old caravan trail, however the approach route is not obvious and unless you have a GPS navigation system and relevant waypoints you are advised to engage a local guide.
Chez la Pacha Hotel, M’hamid
Bordering the Sahara desert this Hotel is a true gem. With a fresh water pool and an outside bar and lounge area, you will be sure to either prepare yourself for the big dunes or take a great reset (and shower) after you return from the desert. The hotel also organises day trips and tours.
