Immerse yourself in the serenity of the Agafay Desert with minimalistic luxury that leaves a lighter carbon footprint. Alkamar Camp, renowned for its understated elegance, introduces essential elements of community, relaxation, high-quality cuisine, and nature to its new seaside retreat. Or, as they say, “luxury for the soul.”
Setting the Stage
The ambiance is farm-like: Arabian stallions prance in round enclosures, peacocks and donkeys roam freely, and nearby gardens cultivate herbs and vegetables for the chefs. Glass-wrapped communal lounges adorned with Berber carpets and large poufs, along with the orange-themed and raffia-covered dining veranda, seamlessly blend with the outdoors. The tastefully curated ambient music sets the rhythm, and at the emerald outdoor bar, couples and wedding parties enjoy cocktails against the backdrop of the Atlas peaks and mesmerizing sunsets fading into a magnificent starlit night sky.
History
Alkamar Camp, inaugurated in January 2022, is the new desert retreat in Agafay that has carved a niche with its sustainable yet luxurious eco-retreats. It caters to travelers who eschew typical amenities in favor of community vibes and engagement with nature. Well-being, gastronomy, music, and giving back to local communities are core values for the Camp. Similar to many retreats in the region, Alkamar employs lightweight construction materials, recycled or locally sourced whenever possible, designed to harmonize seamlessly with the landscape.
Food and Beverage
The cuisine is the sole reason to visit, and it is simply sensational. The chef curates an ever-evolving and experimental menu. Highlights include the vegetarian Berber tagine with Sais vegetables and a selection of delicate Moroccan salads. Desserts like Cinnamon Oranges are to die for.
The Pool
At the heart of the camp, a truly tranquil wellness spot.
Service
Discreet, attentive, and hassle-free describe the service. Staff members speak various combinations of French, Arabic, and English and are happy to accommodate requests, however unconventional.
Ecological Effort
All rooms are heated by a wood-burning fireplace. Single-use plastic is nowhere in sight—Alkamar Camp is committed to eliminating such items, earning them the Oceanic Standard’s Ocean Champion badge.
Rooms
Inspired by Berber tones, sandy-hued tents are scattered along stone paths illuminated by lamps at night. Each ensuite tent, powered by a real fire and featuring eco-friendly toilets, embodies minimalist luxury. There are no minibars or televisions, just wooden floors and earthy cream and ochre tones reminiscent of the regional rock. Moroccan lamps, Berber carpets, and Berber motifs on chair upholstery provide touches of style and color for subtle elegance. All tents offer views of the surrounding mountains and are strategically positioned to provide each room with a private outdoor space. The pricier suites include a private outdoor terrace with seating, while some of the upper-level lodges feature a stone terrace. Rates start from 290 euros per night.
Region/Surrounding Area
The Agafay Desert and the Atlas Mountains form a vast and beautiful playground. Activities range from horseback riding, camel treks (with an escort capturing surprisingly clever photos of you on your saddle), to motorcycle or quad excursions through quartz-filled dunes and eucalyptus plantations. Guided mountain excursions lead to Berber villages for hot tea, carpet-weaving demonstrations, and explanations about how this seemingly barren landscape is a hub of botanical medicines, plants, and wildlife. At night, a local astronomer conducts fascinating stargazing sessions, pointing out various constellations and allowing you to observe Jupiter and Saturn’s rings through his telescope on clear nights. Any neck strain from stargazing can be eased the next morning with the resident yoga instructor’s classes in a charming geodesic dome. There’s also an unheated outdoor pool surrounded by desert plants and shaded sunbathing areas for cooling off under the sun.
For Families
More of an adult affair, but families with children over 12 are welcome.
Accessibility
The retreat is designed to be part of the natural environment, so trails are quite rocky and uneven, but the staff is happy to address any mobility needs. Tents on higher ground are more easily accessible.
Travel Plan→
Nestled among the lunar dunes of the Agafay Desert, just a 45-minute drive from Marrakech, this resort caters to those who prefer escaping the sensory explosions of downtown Marrakech for a tranquil Berber environment near the city…