Elite Traveler March-April 2018

INSPIRE TOP 50 ADVENTURES LAND

DESERT DRIVE DUBAI, UAE

Roaming the golden sands of Dubai is a must-do for any traveler, but as the popularity of the destination has soared in recent years, some of the magic has been lost. This is where the luxury tour group Platinum Heritage steps (or drives) in. With tailor-made desert itineraries it provides an intimate, authentic experience with expert guides who know every grain of sand. Featuring a fleet of 1950s Land Rovers kept in museum-quality condition, the safaris operate from October to May and include private night safaris with astronomer-led stargazing. Platinum Heritage is partnered with the Armani Hotel Dubai, who can take care of your every need. Be sure to stay in the chic Armani Dubai Suite — a regular entry in Elite Traveler ’s Top 100 Suites collection. From $9,055 for one night in Armani Dubai Suite and Platinum Heritage desert safari for two. Contact Mark Kirby, general manager, reservations@armanihotels.com, +971 488 838 88, armanihoteldubai.com

MOROCCAN WEEKEND MARRAKECH AND JEBEL SAGHRO, MOROCCO

Discover the best of Morocco with a long weekend of adventure, beginning in Marrakech. Wander the winding, maze-like alleys where the famous souks can be found, teeming with local traditional textiles, pottery and jewelry. The next morning, a 4x4 will escort you up through the High Atlas mountains and down into the desert village of Hamdor, where you will hike through the southern Moroccan wilderness of Jebel Saghro. The area is home to the Aït Atta tribe, who will be your travel companions through the mountain passes and open plains. The group of desert nomads journey north to escape the sweltering heat of the summer, seeking the cooler climes of the High Atlas mountains. At night, you’ll camp beside the tribe and experience this journey the way they do. Those wanting to immerse themselves further can learn traditional shepherding and Berber survival skills from the tribe members themselves. From $2,650 per person for three nights. Contact TomMarchant, cofounder, tom@blacktomato.com, +1 646 558 3644, epictomato.com