but then I realized that you broke the game
Niiice XD
Regarding the lamps and breadcrumbs, a different-colored stone path could lead to some interesting places and the switch. Some composition of rocks that bend one's attention to some point could be a good choice too. I went to the top of a pillar because a glance on the desert around me revealed nothing interesting: there were just sand dunes all around me.
I also recommend you to watch some GDC talks about level design, e.g. this one about interior design, or this one. There are much more, actually, but can't find the best of the best :D