About Us
A Journey of Connection: Where Cultures Unite
I'm Christine DePalo. After working with local partners in Morocco, I founded this company to share transformative travel experiences. I partner with Salem, an Amazigh guide with deep roots in Morocco's desert communities and extensive local connections that unlock authentic experiences unavailable to typical tourists.
Our Mission
We provide comprehensive support from booking to return, bridging cultures through education and Salem's genuine local partnerships. Together, we're also collaborating on a new luxury desert camp that honors traditional Amazigh hospitality.
What We Offer
Small group tours and solo traveler packages
Customized adventures of any length
Special events (weddings, milestone birthdays, honeymoons, anniversaries, etc.)
Specialized retreat packages for instructors (journey-style desert retreats, single-location stays, or hybrid options)
Pre-trip cultural preparation and ongoing support
Authentic experiences through Salem's trusted network of local families, artisans, and communities
Why We're Different
Salem's deep connections and cultural knowledge create access to the real Morocco - not tourist versions. From sharing tea with nomadic families to our upcoming luxury camp project, we craft seamless experiences that let you truly immerse yourself in Morocco's magic.
GEORGIA BRIDAL & WEDDING EXPO
Exclusive Signature Experiences
Experience Our Signature Magic!
🌟 "YES TO THE DRESS IN MARRAKECH"
4-Day Bridal Shopping Adventure
🏜️ "SAHARA OFF-ROAD BACHELOR BLAST"
Desert Adventure for the Grooms
💅 "HENNA & HAMMAM BACHELORETTE"
🏰 "PRIVATE RIAD & KASBAH ESCAPES"
🥂 "ROMANTIC ANNIVERSARY GETAWAY"
🌙 "DESERT STARS HONEYMOON"
🎂 "MILESTONE MOROCCAN CELEBRATION"
Robert N., New Mexico
Salem was awesome. He took our trip from special to lifetime making memories. He was
instrumental in setting our itinerary and flexible in adapting to changes along the way. I
cannot recommend him enough.
George S., Estonia
It was an amazing tour with the best, Salem!!!
Very professional.
He knows what we want before we say it.
Our pleasure to meet a person like Salem!!!
Scarlet K., London
My husband and I took an anniversary trip to Legzira and Agadir in July. Christine helped us with every step of planning a stress free and seamless experience. We enjoyed the planned excursions - particularly the painted rocks and our visit to Sidi Ifni.
Arawan Luxury Camp
is now open!!!
Arawan Luxury Desert Camp - Authentic Sahara Desert Experience in M'hamid, Morocco
Located in Erg Lihoudi, M'hamid, Zagora, Arawan Luxury Camp is now open and welcoming guests to experience authentic Amazigh hospitality in Morocco's Sahara Desert.
About Arawan Luxury Desert Camp
Named after the legendary desert settlement that has welcomed travelers for over 1,700 years, Arawan Luxury Camp is situated in the golden dunes outside M'hamid, where the Drâa Valley meets the Sahara. Founded by Salem, an Amazigh guide with deep roots in Morocco's desert communities, Arawan serves as both a luxury desert retreat and cultural learning center.
Experience & Amenities
Luxury Desert Accommodations: Private tents with sunrise views over Erg Lihoudi dunes
Amazigh Cultural Immersion: Traditional crafts, music, and storytelling workshops with master artisans
Desert Activities: Camel treks, sandboarding, stargazing, and guided walks along ancient caravan routes
Saharan Hospitality: Authentic desert meals and traditional tea ceremonies
Cultural Learning: Experience nomadic traditions and ancient wisdom preserved for millennia
Location Erg Lihoudi, M'hamid, Zagora Province, Morocco Gateway to the Sahara Desert at the southern terminus of the Drâa Valley
Philosophy
Arawan combines luxury accommodation with cultural preservation, offering guests meaningful connection to Amazigh heritage and the transformative power of the Sahara.
Tours, Retreats, and More
Custom Tours & Experiences Tailored Just for You
We create personalized tours and plans for every occasion and group size. Whether you're planning an intimate private tour, organizing a group adventure, designing a transformative retreat, arranging exciting excursions, or coordinating weddings and special events, we craft unique experiences that exceed your expectations.
Our Services (Contact us for custom planning):
Private tours for individuals and families
Group tours and corporate outings
Wellness and adventure retreats
Day trips and multi-day excursions
Wedding celebrations and ceremonies
Corporate events and team building
Special occasion planning
Experience our Retreats
Kaitlin M., New York
I have always wanted to go to Morocco, but was never really sure where to begin booking a trip. I’m grateful I stumbled upon Journeys and Zen, because I felt so comfortable the entire experience. From booking, to the itinerary, to exploring Morocco, this trip was a dream!
Emily R., New York
Amazing Erg Chigaga tour! Guide Salem ensured a safe, authentic desert experience with incredible local connections. Highly recommend!
Lisa D., New Jersey
Incredible Morocco adventure! From the stunning Dades Gorges to the Erg Chigaga dunes, every moment was special. Amazing local food and our fantastic guide Salem made this tour unforgettable!
