EMBODIED DESERT RETREAT

✦ What is the weather like in November?

Expect mild, pleasant days with temperatures ranging between 11°C and 26°C—perfect for walking and moving in the desert. Evenings and nights can get chilly, so we recommend bringing a warm sleeping bag and layers for different times of day.

✦ When does the sun rise and set?

In November, the sun typically rises between 7:30 and 8am and sets around 6:30pm. These golden transitions are magical moments to witness in the desert.

✦ Will we be there for the new moon?

Yes. Our retreat will unfold around the new moon (Thursday, November 20 2025, at 07:47 UTC) and we will honour this sacred time with a ritual under the stars—a moment to plant seeds, surrender and begin anew.

✦ What does that mean in regards to visibility of the stars?

The new moon is the best time for stargazing, as the sky is at its darkest with no moonlight to dim the stars. In the vast openness of the desert, far from city lights, this means exceptionally clear night skies, perfect for witnessing the Milky Way, constellations and shooting stars.

✦ Can I walk barefoot?

Yes! We encourage you to walk barefoot to feel the sand beneath your feet and connect more deeply with the earth. Still, we recommend bringing walking shoes or sandals, as you may want to alternate.

✦ Are animals like snakes or scorpions a concern?

Not during this time of year. In fact, there’s very little chance of encountering them during the cooler trekking seasons.

✦Which airport should I fly into?

Please plan to arrive at Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK), unless you’re already in the country. We’ll spend our first night in a charming Marrakech riad (guesthouse), before heading south as a group, and our last night there upon return from the desert.

✦ Do I need to land at a specific time on Sunday, 16 November?

You can arrive anytime during the day. Please note we will begin with an introduction and opening circle at 7pm that evening.

✦ How do I get to the riad (guesthouse) from the airport?

Take a taxi from the airport. If five or more participants arrive around the same time, we will arrange a group taxi. Otherwise, taxis are readily available and straightforward to find at the airport (at your own expense—around 10€).

✦How do we get from Marrakech to the desert?

We’ll arrange private transportation from our riad (guesthouse) in Marrakech to the desert, near M’Hamid el Ghizlane (approx. 450 km). This village—known as the “gateway to the desert”—is where our nomadic guides will meet us.

The drive itself is part of the magic: you’ll witness Morocco’s shifting landscapes, from bustling city streets and mountain passes to palm-filled valleys and arid plains, gradually entering the vast stillness of the Sahara. It’s a journey that gently prepares you—body, mind and spirit—for the depth and beauty of desert life.

✦When can I leave on Sunday, 23 November?

You’re free to leave at any time that suits your travel plans, ideally after sharing a final breakfast together at the riad (guesthouse). We understand some flights may depart earlier, so please choose the option that works best for you. Our closing circle will take place the night before, allowing for a spacious and heartfelt goodbye.

Taxis from the riad to Marrakech airport will be arranged for you after breakfast and are included in your retreat price.

✦ What’s the daily rhythm like?

Each day unfolds in a slow, spacious rhythm. Mornings begin with sunrise practices and breakfast, followed by our daily walk. Afternoons offer rest, reflection, healing sessions or group practices. Evenings are spent in community—around the fire, sharing music, meals and stories under the stars. There is plenty of space for alone time and integration.

✦Is this retreat suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes. This retreat is open to all levels. The practices are gently guided, and everyone is encouraged to arrive with a beginner’s mind and an open heart.

Just bear in mind, we will be walking around 3 hours a day at a relaxed pace—desert walking is generally accessible to most bodies. Morning and occasional afternoon movement sessions are offered and always optional.

✦Do I need experience in meditation or embodiment practices?

The retreat is for curious souls of all backgrounds. You don’t need to “know” anything in advance. Come with a willingness to explore, to feel and to reconnect with your inner rhythm.

Whether you’re new to this path or an advanced practitioner, the desert meets you exactly where you are—and so do we.

✦What if I’m coming alone?

Many participants join solo—and this is a safe, welcoming space to do so. You’ll be held by a supportive community and guides throughout the journey.

✦What happens if I get injured, tired or need support?

You’ll never be left behind. A camel will always be available to carry you in case of injury.

If you're feeling tired or simply want to experience a different rhythm, you can also ride a camel for the day (25€ extra). You can book this in advance if you already know this option will suit you!

A 30-minute camel ride is already included in your journey.

Throughout it all, we’ll be there to support you, walking alongside as your guides, holding space with presence and care.

✦ How do I reserve my spot?
To reserve your place, please complete the registration form and submit a €250 deposit. The remaining balance is due at least 15 days before the retreat (or before the early bird deadline if you select that rate).

✦ What are the retreat fees?
We offer a sliding scale:

• Early Bird Rate (until Aug 3): 970€

• Full Rate: 1111€

Flexible payment plans are available—just reach out to discuss options.

✦How can I pay?

• Wise (preferred for international transfers): wise.com/pay/me/sarinea3 or search @sarinea3

• PayPal:

  paypal.me/SarineArslanian or sarine11@icloud.com (please cover fees)

• European bank transfers: Bank details provided upon request — contact me to receive them securely.

✦Are transfers included?

A group taxi from Marrakech airport to the riad (guesthouse) is included if five or more participants arrive around the same time. Otherwise, taxis are readily available and straightforward to find at the airport (around 10€).

Once you arrive at the riad, all transport to and from the desert is fully arranged and included in your retreat package—so once you're there, everything is taken care of, including your taxi back to the airport on the final day.

✦ What about accommodation and meals?

Your stay includes comfortable accommodation in a traditional riad (guesthouse) in Marrakech, and eco-responsible desert camping in shared bivouacs or couple’s tents. Throughout the journey, you’ll enjoy fresh, local, seasonal vegetarian meals and tea, lovingly prepared by our nomadic chefs.

✦ Main bag:

Bring a soft travel bag or rucksack, not a suitcase. Your large bag (with clothing, sleeping bag and toiletries) will be carried by camels.

If you’re travelling with a suitcase, it can be stored safely in the village while we’re on retreat.

✦ Small backpack (optional):

For daytime walks, a small backpack is handy for your water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, etc. However, we will have enough breaks to drink water throughout, so it’s absolutely not necessary.

✦ Clothing:

• Comfortable, loose-fitting clothes for walking, moving and dancing

• Layers: warm jacket, scarf, long sleeves

• Warm socks, sleepwear, a hat for chilly evenings

• We’ll have the chance to buy a Moroccan cheche in the desert!

✦ Shoes:

• Hiking sandals (with or without socks)

• Trekking or running shoes

Comfort is key. Avoid new shoes—make sure to break them in ahead of time to prevent blisters.

Walking barefoot from time to time is also encouraged as a simple way to stay grounded and connect with the earth beneath you.

✦ Toiletries:

• Biodegradable soap and shampoo

• Towel, washcloth

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• A lighter (to safely burn toilet paper)

• Sunscreen and any other personal essentials

Please choose eco-friendly and biodegradable products whenever possible to care for the delicate desert environment.

✦ Medical:

• Any personal medication

• Band-aids, disinfectant, basic first aid supplies

✦ Essentials:

• Yoga mat

• Sleeping bag (5–10°C)

✦ Journaling:

• Pen and notebook

✦ Extras:

• Any musical instruments you love—rattles, shakers, drums, ukulele, guitar, etc.

We’ll share the joy of playing music together around the fire on some evenings!

Don’t worry if you don’t have any instruments—your presence is more than enough.

✦What’s the sleeping setup?

During the trek, you can choose to sleep in a shared bivouac, a couple’s tent or directly under the stars. Comfortable foam mattresses and blankets will be provided.

Bear in mind, you need to bring your own sleeping bag (5–10°C).

✦ What are the bathroom facilities like?

In Marrakech, you’ll have a private bathroom in your riad (guesthouse).

In the desert, we return to simplicity. There are no formal toilets, but you’ll quickly attune to the natural rhythm. You’ll learn how to dig a small hole behind a dune or bush, make use of natural privacy and burn your toilet paper (don’t forget to bring a lighter!).

✦ Can I shower in the desert?

A nomadic shower will be available on the first and penultimate days for a full wash. On other days, water will be provided for light washing. We recommend bringing a biodegradable soap and washcloth to freshen up.

✦ What kind of food is offered?

You’ll be nourished with fresh, local and seasonal vegetarian Moroccan meals prepared three times a day by our wonderful desert cooks. Think:
• warming soups like harira
• delicious vegetable tagines
• fresh salads and delightful desserts

And as a special treat each evening, our desert baker will prepare the legendary pain de sable (sand bread), baked directly under hot ashes. Even better—you’ll have the chance to try your hand at baking it yourself!

Tea is also provided a couple of times a day.

✦ I have dietary restrictions or allergies. Can these be accommodated?

Absolutely. Please let us know in advance, and we will do our best to adapt the meals to your needs.

✦ Can I use my phone or access the internet?

We invite you take this opportunity to unplug—to truly reconnect with yourself and the natural world. While you may have some signal in Marrakech or briefly en route, the desert is a signal-free zone by design. Phones can be used for the occasional photo, but we encourage limited use and digital detox.

✦ What currency should I bring and where can I exchange money?

The local currency is the Moroccan dirham (MAD).
You can exchange money at the airport, at some hotels or at most banks. ATMs are available in towns and even in M’Hamid, but we advise withdrawing money in Marrakech before departure. Most purchases in Morocco are made in cash, often after friendly negotiation.

We recommend bringing some cash for personal expenses, tips or camel rides.

• The deposit is non-refundable.

• The remaining balance is refundable if cancelled at least 15 days before the retreat start date.

• For special circumstances or questions, please contact me directly via email.

This retreat is an invitation.

To walk the ancient dunes, to return to rhythm, to remember silence, to find the sacred in simplicity.

Let yourself be gently unmade by the wind, held by the earth and sung back to yourself by the stars.