Barefoot Luxury in the middle of the Sahara
TENTS: 10 | SERVICE: GOOD | LOCATION: SAHARA DESERT | AMENITIES: PRIVATE LUXE TENTS, SAHARA DUNE VIEW, SAND BATH, STARGAZING
In a majestic landscape situated a mere 2-hour scenic drive away from the bustle of the inhabited world, lies a hidden gem: Umnya Dune Camp. This exclusive and lavish nomadic camp offers individual private suites nestled amidst the undulating sand dunes, providing a truly unique luxury experience that stands out in our estimation.
THE JOURNEY
Arriving in M'Hamid El Ghizlane, the last town before entering the vast expanse of the unknown Sahara, feels like taking a step back in time. This historical town served as the final oasis where ancient caravans convened before embarking on their arduous journey through the desert towards the legendary city of Timbuktu.
Today, M'Hamid El Ghizlane acts as the gateway to nomadic camps like Umnya, reachable solely by traversing the rugged terrain on dromedaries, a 4x4 or a Jeep wrangler. Navigating the sandy landscape alongside Salah, a skilled guide at driving through the undulating sand dunes, proves to be an unforgettable adventure. Despite the challenging terrain, the journey unveils hidden surprises in the form of verdant oases tucked away discreetly, elegant patterns of windswept sand, and a multitude of untamed dromedaries dotting the horizon.
CHECK-IN
Feeling the firm earth beneath you once more following that exhilarating two-hour off-road journey was an unparalleled sensation. Upon arriving at Umnya, we were greeted with a refreshing glass of mint tea and engaged in a delightful conversation with Said and Brahim, Salah's two younger brothers. Together, the trio ensures a stay at the camp that is both exceptionally cozy and etched into your memory forever. It was now time to embark on a leisurely stroll through the undulating sand dunes for a personalised tour of our exclusive tented accommodation.
TENTED SUITES
There are two types of tents available for booking at Umnya: the Superior Suite and the Royal Suite. Opting for the Royal Suite, we immersed ourselves fully in the Umnya experience. This particular suite boasts four distinct sections delineated by canvas partitions: encompassing both indoor and outdoor living spaces, a cozy bedroom, and a simplistic yet thoughtful bathroom setup. Reflecting the essence of a lavish "nomadic camp," the bathroom exudes a serene charm. Each day, you indulge in a manual shower within an iron tub, while the environmentally-conscious toilet is skillfully crafted from wood. On the flip side, the bedroom offers more than just the essentials. Adorned with a plush mattress and soft, inviting sheets, it beckons you to linger in its comfort all morning long. Meanwhile, the living area provides the ideal spot to unwind with a good book or engage in intimate conversations bathed in the warm glow of candlelight.
Overall, the camp seamlessly blends modern and traditional elements in its design by incorporating local tableware, Marrakech furniture, and vintage textiles sourced from the Atlas mountains. The lounge area beckons guests to unwind, relax, and absorb the serene energy of the desert surroundings.
In addition to the peaceful atmosphere of this tranquil oasis, an array of activities awaits. For the adventurous souls, Umnya offers camel or Jeep excursions. Active travelers can enjoy golf practice sessions and sandboarding thrills. Cultural enthusiasts can partake in treks to nomadic tribes and captivating music sessions. Wellness seekers have the option of indulging in sand baths, rejuvenating yoga sessions, and, of course, stargazing under the vast desert sky.
MOROCCAN CUISINE
Umnya's elegant in-house restaurant, Lily Rose, offers a captivating communal dining experience. Adorned with charming local green tableware sourced from Tamegroute and delicate mouth-blown glasses, the dining table exudes a distinctive Moroccan charm. Illuminated solely by the warm flicker of candlelight in the absence of electricity, the ambiance is enchanting. Should you desire a more intimate dining affair, a table can be arranged under the twinkling starlit sky.
The culinary offerings showcase traditional Moroccan cuisine crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. With a daily rotating menu, guests are treated to delightful surprises with each meal. Dietary preferences and allergies are attentively catered to with prior notification.
Mornings greet you with a sumptuous breakfast spread featuring freshly brewed coffee, fragrant tea, and freshly squeezed orange juice. Lunchtime delights await with an array of Moroccan specialties such as vibrant vegetable salads, oven-fresh bread, and flavorful grilled meats. A standout favorite is the tantalizing vegetable tagine paired with homemade harissa, a true culinary delight.
NOTE FROM OUR FOUNDER
We left Umnya feeling rejuvenated and invigorated, our hearts filled with unforgettable memories and our circle of friends expanded to include three amazing individuals. Salah, Brahim, and Said, your exceptional warmth and kindness made our stay truly remarkable. Special thanks to Anas for organising every detail flawlessly and ensuring our time at Umnya Dune Camp was seamless and thoroughly enjoyable.
