Soil Visions
A mindful retreat weaving beginner-friendly photography workshops with a horseback journey across golden dunes, Marrakech’s vibrant streets, Essaouira’s ocean breeze, and the serene shores of Sidi Kaouki. Along the way, daily mindfulness practices deepen your connection to the moment, the landscape, and your own creative vision.
A week immersed in light, color, and calm. In an oceanfront home, surrounded by the scent of spices and the sound of waves, you will combine the art of photography with mindfulness and embodied practice. Each day will focus on a different photographic theme led by Beata Bieńkowska — from the basics of framing to consciously working with light, using a camera or a smartphone. You will learn how to photograph both professional models and everyday people. You will also discover that photography can be a form of deep presence and relaxation.
Mornings with Aleksandra Jachymek will begin with somatic mindfulness — gentle breathing exercises and mindful movement that release tension, deepen body awareness, and sharpen the senses. This practice will allow you to observe more attentively, create with ease, and fully experience each moment. The retreat will begin with an evening in Essaouira, leaving behind the noise of big cities. Our creative days will be spent in the painterly surroundings of Sidi Kaouki — exploring its beaches, cliffs, and Moroccan flavors. We will dine in a seaside cave, and during a horseback ride, we will take in the magic of the surrounding nature. To close the retreat, we will visit Marrakech and take on the challenge of a street reportage. The Soil Visions Retreat is open to everyone — regardless of experience or equipment. It is a time to transform sensitivity into images, and photography into a moment of mindfulness, peace, and creative joy.
About this trip
Itinerary
8 days / 7 nights – Sidi Kaouki
Mindful Photo Retreat – Morocco
8 days / 7 nights
Day 1 – Arrival in Morocco
12:35 – 17:30: Flight from Warsaw to Marrakech.
Private transfer to Sidi Kaouki.
Evening welcome dinner.
Day 2 – Workshop Introduction | Essaouira
Morning somatic mindfulness practice.
Retreat introduction.
Review of participants’ previous photos, discussion of individual needs.
First workshop – seeing the world through frames: light and composition.
Evening in Essaouira to say goodbye to city life.
Day 3 – Mindfulness & Nature
Morning somatic mindfulness practice.
Workshop – photography of details, nature, and landscapes.
Excursion to the beach and cliffs.
Dinner in a seaside cave.
Sharing circle – group photo review and discussion.
Day 4 – Portraits Part 1
Morning somatic mindfulness practice.
Workshop – theory and practice of portrait photography: emotions and storytelling.
Beach portrait sessions with Aleksandra as the model.
Moroccan storytelling evening.
Sharing circle – group photo review and discussion.
Day 5 – Portraits Part 2 | Horseback Ride
Morning somatic mindfulness practice.
Workshop – practical portrait session: gentleness and empathy in a photographer’s work.
Horseback riding excursion combined with a photography session.
Sharing circle – group photo review and discussion.
Day 6 – Photojournalism | Relaxation
Traditional hammam ritual.
Workshop – theory of photojournalism.
Individual portrait sessions of participants taken by Beata.
Gnawa music concert and dancing.
Day 7 – Photojournalism | Marrakech
Group exploration of Marrakech with street photography practice.
Sharing circle – retreat summary and reflections.
Farewell dinner.
Free time in the city.
Day 8 – Marrakech & Departure
Free time in Marrakech.
18:05 – 22:50: Flight from Marrakech to Warsaw.
Highlights
Perfect for beginners and photography enthusiasts who want to improve their skills.
Daily somatic mindfulness practice to deepen presence and creative flow.
Photography workshops covering composition, light, portraits, nature, and photojournalism.
Guided sessions in stunning Moroccan locations – beaches, cliffs, Essaouira, Marrakech.
Unique portrait opportunities, including sessions with Aleksandra and fellow participants.
Horseback riding adventure combined with a photography session.
Traditional Moroccan hammam ritual for relaxation and cultural immersion.
Live Gnawa music concert and dancing under the stars.
Intimate group sharing circles to review and discuss photographs.
OPEN LEVEL/ DESIGNED FOR BEGGINERS
Riding in the saddle up to 6 hrs per day.
Comfortable, well-trained horses & quality saddles.
PRICING
€1500 special promo for first two people who make reservation
€1800
Both buttons will take you to the payment info.
The deposit of €500 is to be remitted to:
Revolut Account: Alexandra Jachymek
IBAN: LT24 3250 0024 0220 7062
BIC/SWIFT Code: REVOLT21
The rest amount must be payed by cash on the day of your arrival.
INCLUDES +
Included in the package: Photography workshops / Morning mindfulness practices / Airport transfer from Marrakech to Sidikauki / Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner from November 1–5 / Breakfast on November 6 / Welcome dinner on October 31 / Accommodation in Sidikauki / Transfer back to Marrakech / One night accommodation in Marrakech on November 6
Not included: Meals in Marrakech on November 6–7 / Flight tickets / Travel insurance / Any additional meals outside the program
Join Us
Aleksandra Jachymek
Aleksandra is an artist from Poland whose life journey led her to the wild Atlantic coast of Morocco. Moving here was a conscious choice — an act of care for her physical health and mental wellbeing — and the culmination of a powerful personal transformation.
After graduating from Film School, Aleksandra went through years of depression, which she chose to heal without medication, instead using her own creativity as medicine: through performance, participatory art, and deep work with energy. At the same time, she faced Hashimoto’s disease, which she successfully healed, and realised that the urban environment was oppressive to her body. She was also in a challenging, codependent relationship for years, before making the life-changing decision to move closer to nature — a decision that would redefine her life entirely.
Today, Aleksandra lives in a house by the ocean in Sidi Kaouki, where she has built a life deeply rooted in nature, mindful living, and creative freedom. Drawing from her own journey of healing and self-discovery, she brings an exceptional ability to guide others through transformative experiences.
This trek is her own creation — designed entirely from her life experience in Morocco. The route is truly unique: no other horseback adventure in the country follows this exact path. Every view, every stop, every hidden corner has been chosen with intention, making it both an adventure and a deep inner journey.
Since May 2025, Aleksandra has been leading these rides, blending her love for horses with her artistic sensibility. On the trail, she offers mindfulness practices, somatic exercises, and breathwork, guiding riders not just across Morocco’s landscapes but also into moments of presence, grounding, and connection.
As the soul of this project, she ensures that every guest feels welcomed, seen, and part of something truly special. She speaks Polish, French and English and her ability to connect with people from all walks of life makes the trek not just unforgettable, but life-changing.
Oussama
Oussama is the owner of the stables in Sidi Kaouki and the heart behind every ride you’ll take with us. His horses are a mix of Barb and Arabian breeds — spirited yet gentle, with incredible endurance for long-distance treks. Every single horse in his stable was personally trained by him, ensuring they are well-balanced, comfortable in the saddle, and perfectly adapted to Morocco’s diverse terrain.
A graduate of the prestigious Fédération Royale Marocaine Equestre in Rabat, Oussama mastered the art of horse training and equestrian techniques at the highest level. After his studies, he completed an internship in one of Morocco’s most renowned stables, where he specialized in starting and refining horses for advanced riding.
Based in Sidi Kaouki for many years, Oussama has been leading multi-day horseback expeditions along Morocco’s Atlantic coast and through its inland landscapes. He is a true professional — passionate, patient, and deeply respectful of both his horses and his riders.
Fluent in English, French, and Arabic, he ensures clear communication and a welcoming atmosphere for guests from all over the world. Whether you’re trotting through golden dunes or cantering along an empty beach, you’ll feel safe, inspired, and completely immersed in the adventure under Oussama’s guidance.
Meet your guides
Riding
Horses & Riding Experience
The horses on this ride are carefully selected Barb-Arabian stallions, personally trained by Oussama, ensuring they are balanced, responsive, and perfectly prepared for all level riders.
Equestrian Equipment
All horses are provided with comfortable, well-fitted saddles and tack. Guests are welcome to bring their own helmet, and it’s recommended to wear chaps, breeches, and long-sleeve shirts for sun protection. While riding without a helmet is possible, some form of sun protection for your head is strongly advised.
Photo
Required equipment for this retreat: at minimum, a phone with a good camera or a photo camera. Before your arrival, please consult your equipment with Beata Bieńkowska.
Travel info
Transfers
From Marrakech/Agadir/Essaouira airport, you can reach to Sidi Kaouki by private taxi, which we can arrange for you. The journey takes approximately 3 hours from Marrakesh and Agadir, from Essaoura is only 20 min way. Please let us know your preferred mode of transport, and we will ensure you have the best possible transfer tailored to your needs.
VISA
If you are traveling from Europe, no visa is required to enter Morocco. You may legally stay for up to 3 months as a tourist.
CLIMATE
The typical temperature in our region is around 25°C (77°F). Be prepared for changing conditions: inland routes are usually warmer with less wind, while coastal trails along the Atlantic can be breezier and cooler. Dress in layers and bring suitable clothing for both warm and windy conditions.
Tips
Tipping is a customary way to show appreciation for local staff in Morocco. Tips can be given in USD, euros, or Moroccan dirhams – whichever is most convenient for you. We encourage you to tip each person individually at the end of the trip, as this personal gesture is especially valued in Moroccan culture.
Accomodation
During your stay, you will be hosted in an oceanfront house with a spacious terrace and breathtaking views of the Atlantic. Spend your days relaxing on the terrace sun loungers, soaking up the Moroccan sunshine, or simply listening to the sound of the waves. The house offers free Wi-Fi and a fully equipped kitchen for your convenience. Daily breakfasts and dinners are served on-site, featuring fresh, local ingredients. Located within a gated and secure community, the property is surrounded by nature, wildlife, and the peaceful beauty of the coastline.
Packing & Practicalities
You may bring a helmet, chaps, and extra riding gear/ surf board and wetsuit.
Begin Your Journey
Discover our upcoming retreats and plan your immersive experience with Soil Boutique Travel.
Soil Boutique Travel is more than a travel organization — it is a space for mindful exploration, connection, and self-discovery. We curate immersive retreats and horseback journeys along Morocco’s Atlantic coast, designed to help you reconnect with your body, mind, and the natural rhythms of the world.
Our philosophy is rooted in natural healing and the transformative power of presence. We believe that being in nature, alongside others in a supportive, conscious community, nurtures inner strength, resilience, and self-awareness. Every experience we create is intended to help you tap into your own power, cultivate mindfulness, and rediscover your connection to the earth — to soil.
Through our carefully designed journeys, we invite you to explore movement, stillness, and connection: with the land, the horses, and the people around you. Each retreat is an opportunity for collective healing, learning, and growth, guided by a deep respect for the rhythms of life and the wisdom of the natural world.
Rooted in soil, made for the journey — our experiences are crafted to leave you more connected, grounded, and inspired, ready to continue your journey with clarity, presence, and purpose.