Sahara Adventure: Exploring the Merzouga Dunes with Friends

Whispers of the Sahara

The Sahara has a way of speaking to your soul, doesn't it? It's a whisper carried on the wind, a story etched in the sand, a feeling of timelessness that settles deep within. Today was all about surrendering to that whisper, letting it guide us through the heart of the Merzouga region. With my friends by my side, I was ready to embrace whatever the desert had in store.

Our day began with the promise of golden dunes and endless horizons. The November sun painted the sky in hues of pink and orange as we set out to explore the legendary Erg Chebbi. The weather was perfect, with temperatures hovering around a comfortable 24°C during the day and cooling down to about 11°C at night. I was glad I packed a mix of light and flexible clothing, just as suggested.

First on our agenda was conquering the Lala Lallia Gran Dune. Known as the highest sacred point in the local Berber language, this star dune is a geological marvel shaped by winds over thousands of years. The climb was challenging, but the panoramic views from the top were more than worth it. The vast expanse of the Sahara stretched out before us, an ocean of sand shimmering under the sun. I could see why the Berbers consider this place sacred; it felt like standing on top of the world.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lala Lallia Gran Dune in Morocco, where golden sands meet vibrant sunsets in the heart of the Sahara Desert.

The desert doesn't judge; it simply is. It invites you to be present, to breathe, to connect with something larger than yourself.

After our exhilarating climb, we were ready for a hearty breakfast. We headed to Cafe Restaurant Zahra, a local gem known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and warm hospitality. Amar and his wife welcomed us with open arms, and we devoured a delicious spread of traditional dishes. The kalia was a standout, flavorful and satisfying.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Restaurant Zahra in Merzouga—where every meal tells a story amidst breathtaking desert views.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we ventured deeper into the Erg Chebbi. The sheer scale of the dunes is awe-inspiring. Some reach up to 250 meters high, creating a landscape that feels both surreal and humbling. We spent hours exploring, taking photos, and simply marveling at the beauty of nature. Some of my friends were tempted to try sandboarding, but we decided to save that adventure for another time.

Lunchtime found us at La Grotte Dunes Restaurant, another local favorite. The setting was magical, with a beautiful interior and a terrace offering stunning views. We savored traditional Moroccan dishes, including tagine and couscous, while soaking in the atmosphere. It was the perfect spot to relax and recharge before continuing our desert adventure.


Savor traditional Moroccan dishes amidst stunning desert landscapes at La Grotte Dunes Restaurant in Merzouga.

As the day began to wane, we found ourselves drawn to a local bar, Kasbah Merzouga Bar. We sipped on refreshing drinks as we watched the sun dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the dunes. The sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors, a breathtaking spectacle that I'll never forget. The temperature was starting to drop, so I was glad I had a light sweater with me.


Discover the charm of Kasbah Merzouga Bar, where Moroccan culture meets breathtaking desert views in the heart of Merzouga.

For dinner, we chose Cafe Restaurant Chez Youssef, a charming spot known for its friendly service and delicious food. We enjoyed flavorful dishes like stew and kefta, savoring every bite as we reminisced about our day. The staff was incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Restaurant Chez Youssef in Merzouga – your gateway to culinary delights amidst Sahara's beauty.

As the stars began to appear, we couldn't resist the allure of the desert night. We found a quiet spot away from the town and simply lay down on the sand, gazing up at the Milky Way. The silence was profound, broken only by the occasional whisper of the wind. It was a moment of pure magic, a reminder of the vastness and beauty of the universe.

Thinking about tomorrow, I'm excited to see what adventures await us at Ali & Sara's Desert Palace and the Merzouga Dunes. I also plan to visit Herbier kounouz sahara.

Back at our guesthouse, as I write this, I'm filled with gratitude for the experiences of the day. Merzouga has a way of capturing your heart, of making you feel connected to something ancient and timeless. I’m also glad I brought my travel guidebook; it has been helpful in planning our days. And though I forgot my portable charger, I was able to get one here. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings!