Ismail is a guide whose soul is tethered to the vast sands of the Sahara, bringing the heart of Morocco to life for Sahara Serenity Tours. Born in a nomadic Berber encampment near Merzouga’s Erg Chebbi dunes, Ismail grew up under a blanket of stars, learning to read the desert’s secrets from his grand parents—how to track shifting sands, find water in hidden oases, and brew mint tea that carries the warmth of home. His early years were spent tending camels and listening to his grandfather’s tales of ancient trade routes and Berber legends, which sparked a lifelong passion for storytelling.
Ismail’s curiosity led him to weave his desert heritage with a talent for connecting with travelers. Fluent in Arabic, Berber (Tamazight), English,French Spanish, and a touch of German, he has a knack for making every guest feel like a friend on a shared journey. Since joining Sahara Serenity Tours in 2019, Ismail has guided over 60 adventures, from swift 5-day desert escapes to deep 13-day cultural immersions, each infused with his calm demeanor and Sahara-born insight.
Ismail’s tours are unforgettable for their personal touches: a detour to a vast Sahara Desert, a quiet moment with nomads sharing bread near The Erg Chebbi dunes, or a camel trek with his favorite camel, “Aziza,” to a dune perfect for a blazing sunset. His stargazing sessions, rich with Berber myths about the night sky, transform desert camps into magical storytelling havens. Whether navigating the labyrinthine alleys of Fez or the rugged trails of Todra Gorge, Ismail’s warmth makes every step resonate.
Off the trail, Ismail volunteers with Merzouga’s youth, teaching desert navigation, and supports local cooperatives that empower Berber artisans through rug-weaving and pottery. His guiding ethos? “The Sahara is a teacher, and every traveler is a student.” With Ismail, you don’t just explore Morocco—you become part of its timeless tale.
Fun fact: Ismail swears he can find the best dune for sandboarding by its “song”—dare him to show you!
