
morocco
yoga & pilates retreat: awaken your senses
A 6-day yoga & culture retreat through Marrakech and the Agafay Desert
OCTOBER 12 - 17, 2026
the retreat:
Morocco is a feast for the senses — rich in color, scent, texture, and tradition. From the vibrant souqs of Marrakech to the stillness of the desert under a sky full of stars, this retreat is designed to immerse you in the beauty of Moroccan culture while offering space to reconnect with your body, breath, and inner rhythm.
We’ll begin in Marrakech, staying at the iconic BE Riad — a dreamy oasis tucked into the heart of the medina. With its tiled courtyards, peaceful rooftop, on-site hammam, and lush design, BE is the perfect home base for exploring the city and softening into retreat. Expect rooftop yoga, Pilates in the indoor studio, guided market explorations, delicious local meals, and plenty of time to rest or indulge in spa rituals.
Then, we’ll journey to BE Agafay — a luxury desert camp just outside the city, where you’ll sleep in beautifully styled tents and practice yoga at sunset with the mountains on the horizon. Here, we’ll ride camels into golden light, adventure on quad bikes through lunar-like landscapes, gather around fires beneath the stars, and share stories and stillness with one another.
This retreat is themed Awaken the Senses — an embodied exploration of movement, stillness, pleasure, and perception. Through the textures of Morocco and the power of presence, you’ll be invited to come home to your body, your breath, and the wonder of the moment.
The Journey: From Marrakech to the Agafay Desert
Morocco is a land of contrast — where centuries-old tradition meets bold design, and every detail invites you to slow down and savor. This retreat is your chance to experience both the vibrant pulse of the city and the expansive stillness of the desert, all while staying in two of the most stunning locations the country has to offer.
We begin in the heart of Marrakech at BE Riad, a boutique retreat space beloved for its lush aesthetic, warm hospitality, and peaceful energy. Hidden within the walls of the medina, BE feels like a secret garden: think tiled courtyards, soft cushions, hanging lanterns, and rooftops lined with palm trees. You’ll start each day with movement — yoga or Pilates in the serene indoor shala or on the rooftop — and fill the rest with curated adventures: exploring the souqs, savoring local cuisine, relaxing by the pool, or enjoying a traditional hammam spa treatment.
Then we journey into the Agafay Desert, just an hour outside the city, where our home becomes BE Agafay — a luxury glamping site with panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains. You’ll sleep in beautifully styled tents with real beds and ensuite bathrooms, practice yoga at golden hour, and gather around the fire each night under a sky full of stars. And in the center of the camp? A stunning desert pool — the perfect place to cool off between camel rides, quad bike adventures, and soulful connection with your fellow travelers.
From the textures of the souqs to the silence of the desert, this retreat is a full-sensory experience — curated for your joy, your presence, and your deepest remembering.
Yoga, Pilates & Embodiment
Each day begins with a soul-stirring practice — a blend of yoga, Pilates, breathwork, and guided journaling to ground you in your body and awaken your senses. Rooted in the Present Practice philosophy, these sessions help you build presence, strength, and clarity — weaving in themes of balance, receptivity, and intuitive living.
Some afternoons will offer deeper workshops, such as:
Heart-opening flow
Restorative yoga
Sensual movement
These sessions are designed to help you soften into yourself and feel fully alive.
Cultural Immersion
For the first three nights, we’ll soak in the vibrant textures of Marrakech:
Wander the lively souqs and shop for artisan goods
Visit a traditional hammam for optional spa rituals
Linger over mint tea in tiled courtyards and rooftop cafés
Enjoy elegant dinners — both at BE Riad and out in the city
This is Morocco at its most magical: warm, welcoming, and rich with inspiration.
Desert Adventures
Then we journey into the quiet beauty of the Agafay Desert, where each day invites play, wonder, and deep connection:
Sunset camel rides across golden dunes
ATV quad bike tours through wide-open terrain
Evening fireside storytelling and stargazing under an endless sky
Desert dips in the stunning pool at BE Agafay
Here, you'll feel both expansive and grounded — wild and completely at peace.
The Energy
This retreat is designed to delight your senses and expand your perspective. It’s the perfect blend of sacred ritual and spontaneous joy — where movement is a celebration, meals are moments of connection, and each experience invites you to awaken something new within.
You’ll leave Morocco deeply nourished, more connected to your inner guidance, and forever changed by the beauty around (and within) you.
What to Expect
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Arrive at BE Marrakech and settle into your vibrant, serene riad
Opening circle + yoga on the rooftop
Welcome dinner on the lush rooftop
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Morning Pilates + guided journaling + group discussion (theme: presence + grounding)
Guided tour through the souqs for artisan shopping + cultural immersion
Lunch out at a medina café
Afternoon yoga at the riad
Dinner on the rooftop
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Morning yoga + journaling + group discussion (theme: inner guidance + trust)
Visit the iconic gardens of Marrakech (e.g., Jardin Majorelle)
Lunch out at a beautiful garden restaurant
Afternoon Pilates back at the riad
Sunset rooftop circle + dinner at the riad
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Morning Pilates + journaling + group discussion (theme: surrender + spaciousness)
Depart for BE Agafay luxury desert camp
Arrive and settle in for lunch with panoramic views
Sunset camel ride through the dunes
Dinner by the fire + stargazing
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Morning yoga + journaling + group discussion (theme: joy + vitality)
ATV quad bike ride through the Agafay desert
Long lunch + poolside rest at the desert camp
Sunset circle + optional stargazing meditation
Farewell dinner + closing celebration under the stars
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Final morning Pilates + reflection circle
Breakfast and heartfelt goodbyes
Depart for Marrakech or onward travel
ITINERARY OVERVIEW
Each day invites you to awaken your senses, move with intention, and experience the vibrant beauty of Morocco — from the colors and culture of Marrakech to the silence and stillness of the desert.
Note: This itinerary is subject to change based on weather, group energy, and the natural flow of our shared experience. Trust that everything will unfold exactly as it’s meant to.
Meet your retreat leaders
Bailey Wesselmann
Retreat Co-Leader | 500-Hour Certified Yoga Teacher
Bailey is a longtime member of the Present Practice community and a favorite among our retreat guests. She first joined us on retreat in Kenya — where she got engaged! — and has since co-led experiences both locally and abroad, bringing her radiant energy and intuitive teaching to everything she touches.
With a background in ballet and a love for dynamic movement, Bailey’s classes are designed to awaken your body, ground your mind, and connect you to your breath. Her signature style blends strength, fluidity, and intentional transitions — helping you move with clarity and presence both on and off the mat.
Bailey has visited over 40 countries, speaks four languages (including French — perfect for Morocco!), and believes deeply in the power of travel to transform and connect us. She completed her 500-hour training in 2024 and brings a beautiful balance of joy, depth, and freedom to her teaching.
Awaken the Senses is the kind of retreat Bailey was born to lead — rich with culture, connection, and embodied self-discovery.
On retreat with Bailey, expect thoughtful journaling, powerful yoga flows, and the kind of presence that brings people together.
Mackenzie Legg
Retreat Co-Leader | Certified Comprehensive Pilates Instructor
Mackenzie is a comprehensively trained Pilates instructor with over 500 hours of formal training and nearly a decade of teaching experience. Since 2017, she has led over 5,000 classes for students of all backgrounds — bringing depth, expertise, and compassion to every session.
Her classes blend classical Pilates foundations with dynamic core conditioning and fascia-focused movement. Mackenzie’s approach prioritizes full-body awareness, postural alignment, and felt sensation — helping students move with greater control, confidence, and fluidity. Through intentional sequencing and gentle cueing, she invites you to inhabit your body with curiosity and care.
Mackenzie’s style is rooted in science and soul — a perfect complement to the Present Practice philosophy of integration and embodiment. In Morocco, she’ll be guiding daily Pilates practices and co-facilitating journaling and group discussion.
On retreat with Mackenzie, expect intelligent movement, elevated technique, and practices that restore your inner and outer alignment.
Retreat Coordinator & Photographer
Bailey and Mackenzie will be joined by one of Present Practice’s trusted retreat coordinators and a dedicated photographer to ensure your journey is seamless, well-supported, and beautifully documented. From logistics to laughter, you’ll be fully held every step of the way.
FAQ
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Not at all! All yoga and Pilates sessions are beginner-friendly and designed to support a wide range of experience levels. Whether you’re brand new or a seasoned practitioner, you’ll be guided every step of the way.
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Absolutely. Most guests join our retreats on their own and leave with new lifelong friends. If you select a shared room, we’ll pair you with a same-gender roommate.
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Fly into Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK) in Marrakech, Morocco. We’ll send detailed arrival guidance once you’re confirmed.
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Yes — round-trip group airport transfers are included. We’ll gather your flight details in advance and coordinate a smooth arrival experience.
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Nope! Mats and props will be provided at both the riad and desert locations. You’re welcome to bring your own if preferred.
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Open-hearted, curious, and adventurous. This retreat is for anyone seeking cultural immersion, meaningful connection, and movement that nourishes body and soul. Expect a group of like-minded travelers who value presence and exploration.
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Retreat deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. All other payments are non-refundable due to the nature of international travel. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment.
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Yes. Both BE Marrakech and BE Agafay are highly experienced in preparing meals for various dietary needs including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free. We’ll collect your preferences after booking.
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You’ll receive a full packing list about 6 weeks before the retreat. Essentials include comfortable clothing for yoga and Pilates, layers for desert evenings, swimwear, and a day bag for outings.
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Yes — Morocco is a popular travel destination and we’ll be in well-known, secure areas. We’ve curated an itinerary with trusted partners and guides to ensure your experience is safe, supported, and unforgettable.
Investment & Room Options
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This retreat is a tale of two worlds — and you’ll get to experience the beauty of both.
We begin with three nights at BE Marrakech, a boutique riad tucked in the heart of the medina. A tranquil oasis of bohemian Moroccan design, this stunning guesthouse features colorful tiled courtyards, a rooftop yoga terrace, cozy lounges, two pools, and an on-site hammam spa. Each room is unique, with handcrafted decor, luxurious linens, and traditional touches that feel both grounding and elevated. You’ll wake up to the sound of birdsong and enjoy breakfast under the palms before diving into the day's explorations.
For the final two nights, we head into the Agafay Desert for luxury glamping at BE Agafay. Nestled among the rocky dunes just outside Marrakech, this desert sanctuary offers beautifully designed tents with proper beds, private bathrooms, and plush linens — all centered around a serene pool that glows at sunset. This is barefoot luxury at its finest: candlelit dinners under the stars, fireside chats, and yoga with panoramic desert views.
This retreat is limited to 16 guests to preserve intimacy, comfort, and connection.
You may choose:
Triple Room – perfect for friends or solo travelers open to meeting new ones
Double Room – for friends or couples wanting a shared space
Single Room – for those seeking privacy and solitude (limited availability)
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Early Bird Pricing
Triple Room: $3,200 per person
Double Room: $3,400 per person
Single Room: $4,000 per person
After August 10, prices increase by $200.
Retreat deposits remain the same and are included in your total investment.
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A $500 non-refundable, non-transferable deposit is required to reserve your spot
(or $800 for a Single Room)
Remaining balance can be paid in full or split into monthly payments
We’re happy to work with you to create a custom plan that fits your needs
Full retreat balance is due 60 days before the retreat begins by August 12, 2026
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What’s Included
6 nights / 7 days of curated retreat programming
Boutique hotel, lodge, and mountain camp accommodations
All meals, private transportation, and local guides
Daily yoga, meditation, and spiritual offerings
Cultural ceremonies, astrology, and art workshops
Adventure excursions (rafting, hiking, archery)
All entry fees, hot stone bath, and farewell dinner
Bhutan visa & tourist tax included
Present Practice retreat journal & more
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Not Included
International flights to Bhutan (routed via Bangkok or Kathmandu, $400–$950) — We’ll coordinate your roundtrip flights to Bhutan after registration. Our team handles all visa and travel logistics so you can arrive with ease.
Flights to gateway city (BKK/KTM)
Travel insurance (recommended)
Tips, alcohol, and personal shopping
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