Sahara Adventure: Exploring the Merzouga Dunes with Friends

Whispers of the Sahara

The Sahara has a way of getting under your skin, doesn't it? It's more than just sand; it's a feeling, a sense of timelessness that resonates deep within. Today, Merzouga unveiled its secrets, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness that left me utterly captivated.

The day began with breakfast at Café Restaurant Touga. Jan and I enjoyed a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with mint tea, of course. The warm, sweet tea was the perfect start to a day of desert exploration. We sat outside, soaking in the early morning sun and the stunning views of the desert landscape. It's amazing how such a simple meal can feel so special in a place like this. The café is in Khamlia, a short drive from Merzouga, and is known for its authentic African cuisine. It’s a charming spot, and I highly recommend their vegetarian pizza, which I heard is a local favorite.


Experience authentic African flavors at Cafe Restaurant Touga in Khamlia - your gateway to delicious Moroccan cuisine amidst stunning desert scenery.
After breakfast, we ventured into the heart of Merzouga, eager to explore Ali & Sara's Desert Palace. This place is more than just accommodation; it’s an experience. As we approached, the landscape transformed into a mesmerizing expanse of rolling dunes, the legendary Erg Chebbi. The palace itself seemed to rise organically from the sand, blending seamlessly with its surroundings. It's designed with a strong Berber spirit, offering tranquility and a closeness to nature.


Discover the enchanting beauty of the Sahara at Ali & Sara's Desert Palace, the ultimate desert campground experience in Merzouga, Morocco.
We were greeted by the staff, who were incredibly warm and welcoming. They spoke several languages, including English and Spanish, which made communication easy. The palace has a beautiful setting, nestled among the dunes, and the meals and camel rides are highly recommended. Ali & Sara's Desert Palace aims to create a tranquil environment, sharing the Amazigh culture and the kindness of their desert team.

The desert is a book, and each grain of sand tells a story of time, resilience, and the enduring spirit of life.

The allure of the Merzouga Dunes was impossible to resist. We spent hours wandering through this sea of sand, marveling at the sheer scale and beauty of nature’s artistry. The dunes rise dramatically, some reaching up to 150 meters. Climbing to the top of one was a bit of a challenge, but the panoramic view was worth every ounce of effort. The undulating landscape stretched as far as the eye could see, an ocean of sand frozen in time.


Discover the breathtaking Merzouga Dunes, a stunning desert landscape in Morocco perfect for adventure seekers and cultural experiences.
I couldn't help but think of my childhood in Kenya, where wide-open spaces and natural beauty were a part of everyday life. This experience felt like a homecoming, a reconnection with the earth in its purest form. The Sahara has a way of humbling you, reminding you of your place in the grand scheme of things.
For lunch, we stopped at Café Restaurant Les Amis. It was a cozy spot, perfect for a midday break. The menu offered a variety of options, and we opted for some traditional Moroccan dishes. The flavors were rich and satisfying, a testament to the local culinary traditions.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café Restaurant Les Amis in Merzouga—where delightful flavors meet warm hospitality.
After lunch, we decided to explore the local culture a bit more. We visited Herbier Kounouz Sahara, a local shop specializing in traditional Saharan herbal remedies and products. It was fascinating to learn about the different plants and their uses, from skincare to traditional medicine. I picked up a few items, eager to try some natural beauty products. Supporting local businesses is important to me, and it’s always a great way to connect with the community.


Discover the essence of Moroccan craftsmanship at Herbier Kounouz Sahara, your premier gift shop in Merzouga, offering unique treasures from the Sahara Desert.
As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Welcome to the Desert for dinner. The name itself was an invitation, and the experience lived up to its promise. The ambiance was warm and inviting, and the food was simply divine. We savored every bite, reflecting on the day’s adventures.


Savor authentic Moroccan cuisine amidst breathtaking desert views in Merzouga's hidden gem restaurant.
I couldn’t help but think about how different this landscape is from Amsterdam, where I now live. The canals and bicycles of my adopted city are a world away from the vastness of the Sahara. Yet, both places have a unique charm and a sense of community that I deeply appreciate.
Tomorrow, we’re planning to ramp up the adventure with a Sahara ATV Quad Experience. I’m a bit nervous, as I’ve never ridden a quad bike before, but I’m also incredibly excited. We’ll also be spending the night at Bivouac Merzouga Experience, which I’m told is an unforgettable way to immerse ourselves in the desert’s magic. I’m looking forward to stargazing in the clear desert sky and experiencing the Berber culture firsthand.
As I write this, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences of the day. Merzouga has a way of slowing you down, of making you appreciate the simple things in life. It’s a place where time seems to stand still, and the beauty of nature takes center stage. I am also grateful that Jan is sharing this experience with me. His presence makes every moment more special, more meaningful. I am looking forward to sharing many more sunsets and sunrises with him.
I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings. Until then, I’ll drift off to sleep with dreams of sand dunes and Berber treasures.