With its remote desert backdrop and reputation as one of the most beloved celebrity hangouts, Amangiri is the ultimate retreat for those in search of total mind-body restoration.
Waking up to endless views of undulating rock formations and falling asleep under a blanket of stars isn’t exactly what comes to mind when you think of ‘camping.’ But at Camp Sarika, Amangiri’s ultra-luxurious tented retreat, that’s exactly what’s on offer – minus the damp sleeping bags and lukewarm tins of beans that camping, in its most traditional sense, often affords. Instead, think super king beds, private plunge pools, and a wellness experience so seamless that even the world’s most famous faces slip in unnoticed, emerging a week later looking inexplicably well-rested.
I spent just under a week here, waking with the sun, moving my body through yoga and canyon hikes, indulging in spa treatments infused with the healing properties of the land, and eating locally sourced, nourishing meals. By the time I left, my mind was clearer, my body lighter, and my phone screen time at an all-time low.
THE VIBE
Calling Camp Sarika ‘camping’ might be a stretch. Sure, there are tented pavilions and campfires perfect for toasting s’mores – but that’s where the resemblance ends. This is camping, A-list style: where guests are handed a private buggy to explore the vast desert landscape, rather than a torch to locate the nearest toilet block. Privacy is paramount, and it’s easy to see why the A-list love it here – the resort, set within 600 acres of untouched wilderness, has an almost monastic stillness to it. There are no flashing paparazzi bulbs, no prying eyes – just a sense of deep, uninterrupted calm.
Even at full capacity, Amangiri feels almost empty. You might catch a glimpse of another guest at the main hotel pool or passing through the spa, but for the most part, it’s you, the red rocks, and an overwhelming sense of peace. At night, the silence is punctuated only by the sound of the wind moving through the canyons, while the inky sky glows with constellations usually lost to city lights.
THE SPA
The wellness offering at Amangiri is unparalleled. Treatments draw from Native American traditions, harnessing the healing power of the desert landscape – from body wraps infused with Navajo medicinal herbs to hot-stone massages using locally sourced rocks. The sauna and steam rooms are embedded into the land itself, creating a true connection to the elements.
Daily yoga and breathwork sessions take place on a scenic pavilion overlooking the canyons, while guided meditation sessions help guests fully switch off. For something even more immersive, the spa offers sound therapy, where vibrations from Tibetan singing bowls work to restore balance and calm.
THE ROOMS
Credit: Tanveer Badal
The main Amangiri resort offers minimalist suites, carved seamlessly into the natural landscape, each with a sunken fireplace and panoramic views of the desert. But it’s Camp Sarika where the magic happens – ten luxury pavilions, each with a private plunge pool, open-air living areas, and outdoor showers where you can wash beneath the stars.
Inside, the decor is pure Aman – warm woods, soft linens, neutral tones that blend effortlessly with the surroundings. Every detail is designed to bring the outdoors in, from the floor-to-ceiling windows to the fire pits where guests gather for evening storytelling. The only thing reminding you that you’re not actually ‘off-grid’ is the seamless service, with staff who seem to appear exactly when you need them, yet never intrude.
THE DINING
Meals at Amangiri feel less like dining and more like a continuation of the wellness experience. There’s no set menu – instead, the chefs curate dishes based on what’s seasonal and locally sourced. Breakfast is a wholesome affair – fresh juices, homemade granola, eggs any way you like. Come evening, the focus shifts to rich, warming flavours inspired by the American Southwest – think fire-grilled meats, vibrant salads, and smoky, slow-roasted vegetables.
If you want something specific, they’ll make it happen. Craving a moonlit s’mores session after a night of stargazing? The team will have a fire pit ready, complete with artisanal marshmallows and handcrafted chocolate. Want your matcha prepared just-so after your morning meditation? Consider it done.
WHAT TO DO
Beyond the resort, the adventures are endless. There’s the Via Ferrata climbing route, where harnessed guests scale sheer rock faces for unbeatable views, or guided hikes through slot canyons shaped by thousands of years of wind and water. For something truly special, private helicopter tours whisk guests over the vast desert landscape, or take a boat trip around neighbouring Lake Powell.
But sometimes, the best experiences are the simplest. Nights at Camp Sarika are spent gathered around the fire, sipping herbal tea, wrapped in cashmere blankets while staff point out constellations and tells stories of the land. It’s the kind of experience that makes you question why you ever lived with light pollution.
WHAT TO PACK
Credit: Tanveer Badal
When packing, think layers – desert temperatures can swing dramatically from day to night. Bring breathable activewear for morning hikes, cosy knitwear for evening stargazing, and swimwear for your private plunge pool.
The beauty of Amangiri is that you don’t need to bring much – and if you do forget anything, the Aman Cabana has you covered. Unlike traditional resort boutiques filled with predictable souvenirs, this newly launched retail concept at Camp Sarika is all about curated essentials that blend adventure with high-end style; it includes sleek burnt-orange bodysuits, lightweight windbreakers, sport sunglasses, bucket hats, and stainless-steel water bottles. But beyond clothing, the most important thing to bring is a willingness to slow down, switch off, and fully embrace the magic of the desert.
THE FINAL VERDICT
A stay at Amangiri is more than just a holiday – it’s a recalibration. And after a week here, it’s easy to see why those in the wellness world return time and time again. Because sometimes, the greatest luxury isn’t just where you stay – it’s how it makes you feel.
Lead image credit: Amangiri
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