About Hamid
A Lifetime Connected to the Sahara and the Stars
Welcome to Yoga Under Stars in the Desert, where the timeless beauty of the Sahara meets wellness, discovery, and authentic Moroccan hospitality.
My name is Hamid Segaoui, and my story began in the heart of the desert. I was born on March 3rd, 1965, under a traditional Berber tent while my family was still living a nomadic lifestyle. My parents raised camels and goats, traveling across the Sahara and living in harmony with nature. Like many children born into nomadic families, I was expected to follow the same path. However, as life in the desert became increasingly challenging, my parents made a decision that would shape my future—they sent me to school at the age of ten.
Education opened a new world for me. After completing my studies, I earned my Bachelor’s degree in 1987 and later graduated in Geology in 1991. My passion for understanding the Earth’s history led me to work with international organizations and scientific institutions, allowing me to explore Morocco’s remarkable geological heritage while sharing it with visitors from around the world.
Over the years, I participated in some of the world’s most renowned fossil and mineral exhibitions, including events in France, Germany, and the United States. My professional journey eventually evolved into organizing geological field expeditions throughout Morocco, guiding researchers, students, and academics across the Atlas Mountains, the Sahara Desert, and many of Morocco’s most fascinating natural landscapes.
Since 2005, I have had the privilege of leading geological and educational field trips for respected institutions such as the Natural History Museum in London, Birkbeck College, Portsmouth University, The Open University, and Bath University. These experiences strengthened my belief that the desert is not only a place of extraordinary scientific importance but also a place of inspiration, reflection, and personal transformation.
From Geology to Astronomy
In 2012, while attending the Astronomy Festival at Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane, I discovered a new passion that would forever change my life—the night sky.
Captivated by astronomy, celestial mythology, and the stories hidden among the stars, I completed professional training in astronomy and received my first telescope. What began as curiosity quickly became a lifelong passion.
Since 2013, I have combined my expertise in geology with astronomy, offering guests a unique opportunity to explore both the Earth beneath their feet and the universe above their heads.
Today, our observatory is equipped with several professional telescopes, including a 400mm Dobsonian telescope, allowing visitors to observe planets, galaxies, nebulae, star clusters, and the breathtaking Milky Way from one of the darkest and clearest skies in Morocco.
In 2023, I became an officially licensed English-speaking tour leader accredited by the Moroccan Tourism Office (License GCVT 3321), enabling me to continue sharing my knowledge, culture, and passion with travelers from around the world.
Our Desert Luxury Astro Camp
Our camp has been carefully designed to provide both comfort and authenticity.
Each luxury tent features:
- Private bathroom
- Air conditioning
- Comfortable beds
- Traditional Moroccan décor
- Panoramic views of the Sahara
- Peaceful and private surroundings
Beyond accommodation, we offer a variety of enriching experiences including:
- Yoga and meditation sessions
- Astronomy events and telescope observations
- Geological discovery tours
- Camel trekking experiences
- 4×4 desert adventures
- Cultural encounters with local nomadic families
- Campfire evenings beneath the stars
Every experience is designed to help our guests connect more deeply with the natural beauty, culture, and spirit of the Sahara.
A Personal Invitation
For me, the desert has always been more than a landscape—it is home, teacher, and source of inspiration.
I invite you to join us and experience the magic of the Sahara through the eyes of someone who was born beneath its skies, walked its ancient paths, studied its geological wonders, and spent years exploring the mysteries of the universe above.
Whether you come for yoga, astronomy, adventure, or simply to experience the tranquility of the desert, we look forward to welcoming you and sharing this extraordinary place with you.
Hamid Segaoui
Founder & Host
Yoga Under Stars in the Desert
