Night Sky & Caravan Trail
From the vibrant bazaars of Marrakech this journey takes you over the Atlas Mountains to the remote fringes of the Sahara desert. The lush palm oases of the Draa Valley are an ideal setting for our astronomical activities during our stay at a remotely located hotel equipped with an impressive range of telescopes. Enjoy Ait Benhaddou, the best preserved Kasbah in Morocco.
Astronomy - Tuition and talks from an astronomy expert
Transport - Minibus, 4WD, on foot, camel (or walk 1.5 hours each way)
Accommodation - Hotels (6 nights), Bedouin desert camp (1 night) with basic facilities
In Bedouin-style camp you will stay in large Bedouin-style tents (8 per tent).
Meals - 7 breakfasts, 2 lunches & 3 dinners
Sahara Sky Observatory
This privately owned hotel / observatory in the Draa Valley is far from light pollution and offers excellent dark skies with a full panoramic 360° view. From this southerly vantage you'll be able to explore deep sky objects near the centre of our galaxy that are so difficult to view from Northern Europe. This is the perfect place for sunset and sunrise.
Ait Benhaddou
Leaving the desert behind, you visit the fortified village of Ait Benhaddou which is reminiscent of biblical times. Perhaps take the option to visit the nearby film studios (additional charge) which have featured in films such as Gladiator and Jesus of Nazareth.
Camels and Camping
You’ll be part of a typical desert caravan. It’s one camel per person with additional animals to carry baggage, camping equipment and water. Your traditional nomad tents are made of dark woven material stretched over wooden props with sides that can hang down or be raised for ventilation. You sleep communally on mats and mattresses.
