Join Kalender Huruci and Illuminate Retreats for a Transformative Sufi-inspired journey in Essaouira, Morocco

Embark on a unique and enriching retreat near the enchanting coastal town of Essaouira, Morocco. This Sufi-inspired experience blends spiritual practices, cultural exploration, and wellness, creating an ideal environment for self-discovery and deep inner peace. Surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of Essaouira—where the Atlantic Ocean meets serene sandy beaches and the ancient medina buzzes with vibrant life—this retreat offers a peaceful sanctuary to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.

Led by a remarkable luminary, Kalender Huruci, this retreat seamlessly weaves together Sufi traditions and modern wellness practices. Kalender Huruci, who has dedicated over 25 years to the Sufi path as a dervish, brings profound insight into this spiritual tradition. Having established a non-profit space in Istanbul to share Sufi teachings, he offers participants an authentic glimpse into this ancient path. A skilled musician, Kalender has played the red flute (ney) for 25 years and the Turkish Sufi instrument bağlama for four years. He also composes music, teaches whirling, and leads Sufi ceremonies in Istanbul, enriching the retreat with deep spiritual resonance.

The retreat’s itinerary is carefully curated to balance introspection with relaxation and cultural discovery. From cleansing rituals upon arrival to a Moroccan feast under the stars, each day unfolds with nourishing meals, healing practices, and meditative experiences. Mornings begin with peaceful dream journaling and breathwork, while afternoons offer cultural excursions, such as visits to local shrines and traditional Hammams. Evenings are devoted to sacred Sufi ceremonies, including Zikr, Hadra, and music, creating a transformative space for reflection, connection, and healing.

This retreat is more than just a getaway—it is a profound journey inviting you to reconnect with your essence, cultivate gratitude, and embrace self-love. Whether seeking spiritual growth, emotional healing, or a meaningful pause from daily life, this retreat offers a sanctuary for your soul to thrive in the timeless beauty of Morocco.

About the Luminaries

Kalender Huruci is a devoted Sufi practitioner, spiritual guide, and musician who has dedicated over 25 years to the Sufi path as a dervish. With a deep-rooted understanding of Sufi traditions, he has spent years immersing himself in sacred practices, guiding individuals toward spiritual awakening and inner harmony. Kalender established a non-profit space in Istanbul to share Sufi teachings and foster a community of seekers. As a skilled musician, he has played the red flute (ney) for 25 years and the Turkish Sufi instrument bağlama for four years, using music as a medium for spiritual connection and healing. In the upcoming Sufi retreat, Kalender will offer profound insights into Sufi practices, leading whirling ceremonies, Zikr, and meditative music sessions, creating a deeply transformative and soulful experience for all participants.

Meriem Bendahmane is a massage therapist who can help you embrace your true self and cultivate contentment in our incredibly competitive society. Meriem is very organised, and doubles up as our Retreat Manager, taking care of all logistical coordination with our remote team, vendors and venue hosts, and looking after our Luminees.

*Please note that luminaires may be subject to change based on availability. Please confirm once before booking. Illuminate Retreats is not responsible for any harm or loss caused by this representation.