The desert doesn’t just test your strength, it tests your mind. In Dune: Awakening, one of the most iconic ways this unfolds is through the Trial of Aql, a spiritual, narrative-driven journey that challenges both your understanding of the world and your ability to survive it. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to find the first four Trial of Aql locations, so you’re not left aimlessly wandering the dunes. No spoilers here, I’ll only guide you to each trial entrance, not what happens once you’re inside. Let’s just say… the spice will show you the rest.
All First 4 Trial of Aql Locations
What are the Trials of Aql? Also known as the Test of Aql or the Seven Mystic Questions, these trials are deeply rooted in Dune lore and Fremen culture. It begins with the fundamental question: “Who is it that thinks?”
In-game, the Trial of Aql is part of your Journey progression system, a spiritual and mental path guided by the spice that gradually teaches you the ways of the desert. It’s more than just leveling up. It’s about understanding why you’re here, not just surviving how.
Each trial starts with an altar and a bowl of spice and transports you into an instanced challenge. But first, you have to find them. That’s where this guide comes in.
Here’s where to go and what to look for.
First Trial of Aql – Hagga Basin South
Location: Center of Haga Basin South
Landmark: Large rock formation with dew flower field
The first trial is tucked into the southern part of Haga Basin South. Head for the large rock structure near the center of the region. You’re looking for a slightly raised cave entrance, marked by a dew flower field, that’s your sign you’re close.
Once inside, follow the descending path until you reach a familiar sight: an altar and a bowl of spice. Interact to begin the trial. The rest? That’s between you and the spice.
Second Trial of Aql – Southeast Vermillius Gap
Location: Southeast Vermillius Gap
Landmark: Rock formation south of the Trade Post
For the second trial, make your way to southeastern Vermillius Gap. If you’ve already found the local Trade Post, just head directly south from there.
You’ll come across a large rock formation with lights flickering among ruins on its eastern side. That’s your cue. You’ll see two sealed cave entrances, either one works. Just watch out for traps as you head inside, and that you’ll have to use the survey thingy.
From there, descend deeper into the cave (it’s steeper than the first one), and you’ll eventually come across another altar and bowl of spice.
Third Trial of Aql – Western Vermillius Gap
Location: Southeast of Western Vermillius Gap
Landmark: Flat rock balanced atop stone pillars
This one’s a little more striking. Head to the southwest region of western Vermillius Gap, and look for a flat rock balanced like a teetering disc on top of tall rock columns. Can’t miss it.
Go around to the northeastern side of the formation, you’ll see lights and ruins leading to a path upwards.
Be prepared to deal with a few enemies here before you proceed. Once you’ve cleared the area, take either of the two cave paths deeper in to find yet another altar, and this time, a shigawire recording to interact with as well.
Fourth Trial of Aql – Eastern Vermillius Gap (Hammer Landmark)
Location: Hammer-shaped rock, eastern Vermillius Gap
Landmark: Massive rock shaped like a hammer
Last but not least, you’re heading to eastern Vermillius Gap, to a massive, unmistakable hammer-shaped rock formation in the middle of a large mountain range.
Your goal is to climb about halfway up the south face of this hammer. There might be a clean climbing path, but to be honest, I just scrambled up from the south or southwest, and eventually made it.
Once you reach the ruins, look for environmental clues pointing you toward higher ledges and climbing points. Eventually, you’ll find your way inside the hammer and reach the fourth altar room.
Bonus Tip: If you’ve unlocked the ornithopter, you can skip the climb and just fly straight to the top, entering the hammer directly from above. Easy mode.
Wrap-Up
And there you have it, the first four Trial of Aql locations in Dune: Awakening. These aren’t just story markers; they’re your path to understanding the world of Arrakis and your place in it. We hope this guide helped you get unstuck, save time, and dive deeper into one of the most intriguing systems in the game. The spice doesn’t just flow… it guides. Speaking of guides, consider checking out my guide on how to build a Blood Purifier in case you haven’t constructed it yet, you don’t wanna miss out on that one.
