After the hustle and bustle of the cities, the prospect of spending 4 days trekking through the desert was a welcome contrast, We met up with our guides early in the morning while the camels were being loaded with all the equipment, food and water that would see us through to the end of the walk.
We set off from M’Hamid, the end of the road before the Sahara desert. The walking was at a gentle pace as we got to know our travelling companions… our lives would literally be in their hands for the next 4 days. The weather conditions in November were perfect, not too hot during the day, or too cold at night. In the afternoon of the first day, the wind got up which made walking slightly uncomfortable, but it was good to experience a mini sandstorm and poor visibility and see just how inhospitable the desert could be. We just pitched camp early and sat it out.
Our guides were very friendly, spoke excellent English and were entertaining company. Meal times were the usual Moroccan ritual with plenty of tea and excellent cuisine. We learnt a lot about the desert and the nomadic way of life. Our guide entertained us with traditional stories that had been handed down through the generations. The tents were very comfortable; the nights under canvas were the best sleep that I had during the whole holiday.
The highlight of the trek was when we reached the sand dunes. It was quite magical wearing a djellaba and turban, and leading a camel through the dunes.
We hardly saw another person during the trek. What we did see, were lots of stars… the views of the Milky Way were truly amazing away from any light pollution.
A wonderful experience… so peaceful to get away from the stress of everyday life and just chill out… thoroughly recommended.