Adventurous Sahara Desert Elopement in Morocco

When Amanda and Kyle reached out, they were originally planning on a backpacking elopement in Yosemite but they were still considering a destination elopement somewhere in the world. I had a feeling that wherever they decided to elope, it was going to be an adventure, and that feeling was right! About a month or two later, they reached back out to let me know that they had decided on a new location—Morocco! To say I was excited was an understatement. Amanda and Kyle had always dreamt of visiting Morocco and thought it would be the perfect adventure to begin their new married life together.

For their elopement, they booked a multi-day trip to a desert camp in the middle of the Sahara desert (so epic!) but the trip would first begin in the Moroccan city of Marrakech. We all flew to Marrakech and spent a couple of days exploring the city and wandering the bustling streets. With the all-inclusive package they had booked, they had the option to stay in riads all around Morocco. A riad is basically an old home that’s been converted into a boutique hotel. All riads have an open-air courtyard at their center with the rooms surrounding it. We were greeted with fresh mint tea and cookies at each of the riads upon arrival. It was such a nice treat and a big part of the Moroccan culture.

In Marrakech, we stayed in a beautiful riad right in the heart of the city. It was super cool and all the rooms had their own unique personality. While in Marrakech, we did an engagement shoot in the city. It was really cool to explore and take photos. We had a ton of fun and it was the perfect way to kick off the trip!

After a couple days, we began our journey out to the desert. As part of their package, we had a guide who would take us out there. The Sahara desert is still pretty far from the city so we took our time exploring the country while we made our way out there, stopping at a couple of local riads along the way. We were able to see some of the popular destinations and learn about the local culture.

Once we reached the edge of the desert, our guide blasted the music and we began the 4 wheel adventure! It’s a super long and bumpy drive to the Nubia Luxury Desert Camp at Erg Chegaga. It was exciting but also quite a journey! To get there, you have to drive up and down through sand dunes. We all got a little carsick (ha!) but it was such a fun experience!

The desert camp was so cool! It was essentially like glamping in the middle of nowhere. There were a bunch of canvas tents set up with a fire in the middle. We each had our own little tent. It was really cool and super intimate because we were fortunate to be the only ones at the camp at the time! When we got there, we went on a sunset camel trek and they made us delicious local Moroccan meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

We started the day with a few getting ready photos in their tent. Amanda chose to wear a beautiful green dress with amazing beading that she had custom-made by a local Moroccan seamstress. It was so authentic and I love how she chose to incorporate the Moroccan culture into their day that way.

After getting ready photos, we made our way to their ceremony spot amongst the dunes. It was a super intimate ceremony setup with the camels nearby and a beautiful rug.

The day of the elopement was very hot and very windy. It was the desert afterall! In the desert, it gets super hot for the majority of the day, pretty much from late morning until 5pm. Suffice to say, the conditions were a bit challenging. We may have gotten sand blasted a few times but we totally rolled with it and had so much fun.

After their vows, we popped some champagne to celebrate and ended the day with a sunset camel trek. Talk about a dream elopement!

After our stay at the desert camp, we looped back to Marrakech, journeying to a couple of other Moroccan towns along the coast as we made our way back. It was quite an adventure and I’ll be forever grateful to Amanda and Kyle for the opportunity to be a part of it. It really was the adventure of a lifetime!

Eloping in Morocco

Lively cities, desert as far as the eye can see, brilliant architecture, and the chance to immerse yourself in a completely different culture—this is Morocco! From the old world charm of Marrakech to the incredible beauty of the Sahara desert, there is so much to be explored. If you’re dreaming of a destination elopement where you can relax, explore, and  experience something completely new together, Morocco is the place for you.

Where to Stay

Marrakech

Known as the gateway to the Sahara, if you’re heading to the desert, Marrakech will likely be a stop on your itinerary. This lively city is filled with beautiful architecture, bustling streets, and some incredible food. Don’t miss the opportunity to stay in a traditional Moroccan riad. Some of the best riads can be found in Marrakech!

Nubia Luxury Camp at Erg Chegaga

Next stop—the desert! If you’re planning some time in the desert, I highly recommend Nubia Luxury Camp at Erg Chegaga. This was the desert camp we stayed at for Amanda and Kyle’s elopement in the Sahara desert and it was incredible. The camp sits at the foothills of the high dunes of Erg Chegaga. Here you’ll experience an incredible glamping experience from the luxury tents to the delicious meals all prepared for you on site. Plus, there are all sorts of activities you can enjoy from camel trekking to sandboarding!

When to Elope

The summer heat is no joke in Morocco, especially in the desert. Because of this, I recommend planning your elopement for the spring, fall, or winter. March, April, or between September and November are the best months to elope in Morocco. During these months, the temperatures will still be warm, but you won’t be caught in the scorching heat and extreme weather.

Are you dreaming of destination elopement in Morocco? No matter where you’re dreaming of eloping, I’m always down for an adventure! I’d love to hear more about what you’re dreaming up for your elopement day!