Sahara Adventure: Exploring the Merzouga Dunes with Friends

Whispers of the Sahara

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the raw adventure of the Sahara with the unexpected luxury of a desert camp. It was a day where the simple act of existing felt profound, as if the ancient sands themselves were whispering secrets into my soul. From thrilling rides across the dunes to quiet moments of reflection under the vast sky, Merzouga has woven its magic into my very being.

The day began with a delightful breakfast at Café Restaurant Chez Ibrahim. The Moroccan sun cast long shadows as we savored traditional dishes, fueling up for the adventures that lay ahead. It was a simple meal, but the flavors were rich and authentic, a perfect start to a day steeped in the culture of the Merzouga Region. Jan, ever the early bird, was already snapping photos of the sunrise, while I savored the sweet mint tea, a staple here. I felt a pang of longing for my Kenyan home, where tea is also a ritual, a moment of peace before the day's hustle.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Restaurant Chez Ibrahim in Khemliya—where delicious pizza meets warm hospitality.

After breakfast, we ventured into the heart of the desert for a Sahara Safari Adventure. The thrill of riding across the dunes was exhilarating, the wind whipping through our hair as we navigated the sandy landscape. The vastness of the Sahara is humbling, a reminder of nature's power and beauty. We stopped to admire the views, the silence broken only by the occasional call of a desert bird. It was during this stop that I realized I had forgotten my portable charger! A rookie mistake, especially for a social media manager like myself. Thankfully, Jan had his, and he graciously offered to share.


Experience the thrill of the Sahara Desert like never before with Sahara Safari Adventure's exhilarating ATV rentals and breathtaking landscapes.

The desert is a book, and each grain of sand tells a story.

The desert is not just a place, but a feeling, an experience that etches itself onto your soul.

For lunch, we stopped at Snack chez Toufik. The lamb tagine with raisins was a standout, a flavorful dish that perfectly captured the essence of Moroccan cuisine. The staff was friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. I even tried my hand at a few Darija phrases, much to the amusement of the locals. It's moments like these, these small cultural exchanges, that make travel so enriching. I remember when Jan tried to speak some Swahili back in Kenya, I could not stop laughing for a good hour.


Experience delicious Moroccan cuisine at Snack chez Toufik, where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality in the heart of Merzouga.

Next on the agenda was a visit to DRISS FOSSILS AND MINERALS SHOP. I have always been fascinated by geology, so I found it very interesting. I picked up a few unique souvenirs, each one a tangible reminder of our time in Merzouga. I am sure my sustainable fashion startup colleagues back in Amsterdam will be thrilled to see them!


Explore the unique Driss Fossils and Minerals Shop in Hassilabied for authentic fossils and stunning minerals that capture Morocco's natural beauty.

As the sun began its descent, we arrived at Tiziri Camp - Luxury ECO Desert Camp Merzouga. The camp was an oasis of tranquility, a luxurious haven amidst the rugged desert landscape. The tents were beautifully appointed, with comfortable beds and elegant furnishings. It was glamping at its finest, a far cry from the basic camping I was used to back in Kenya. We settled in, enjoying the stunning views and the peaceful atmosphere. The staff was incredibly attentive, catering to our every need. I was particularly impressed by their commitment to sustainability, a cause close to my heart. The camp uses solar power, recycles water, and sources local ingredients, minimizing its impact on the environment.


Discover Tiziri Camp, a luxury eco desert retreat in Merzouga, where comfort meets the breathtaking beauty of the Sahara and family-friendly adventures await.

Dinner at Kasr Diafa Restaurant & Snack & Cafe was a culinary delight. The food was exquisite, a fusion of traditional Moroccan flavors and modern culinary techniques. The ambiance was enchanting, with soft lighting and Berber music creating a magical atmosphere. We dined under the stars, the Milky Way stretching out above us in all its glory. It was a moment of pure bliss, a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Kasr Diafa Restaurant & Snack & Cafe in Merzouga—where tradition meets flavor.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post from the comfort of our tent, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences of the day. Merzouga has exceeded all my expectations, offering a blend of adventure, luxury, and cultural immersion that is truly unforgettable. Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of the surrounding area with Days In Morocco and Morocco Bedouin Tours. I am excited to see what new adventures await, what other secrets the Sahara has to reveal. Perhaps we will even visit Bar TABAA for a nightcap after dinner tomorrow!

The desert has a way of stripping away the superficial, leaving you with only what truly matters: connection, experience, and a deep appreciation for the beauty of the world. I am so grateful to be sharing this journey with my friends, creating memories that will last a lifetime. And even though I forgot my portable charger, I have gained something far more valuable: a renewed sense of wonder and a deeper understanding of myself. I cannot wait to share all of this with Jan when I get back to Amsterdam. I think he will be thrilled!

I would highly recommend Tiziri Camp to anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable desert experience. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure that your stay is perfect, the accommodations are luxurious, and the food is exquisite. It is a true oasis in the Sahara, a place where you can relax, recharge, and reconnect with nature. The Sahara Safari Adventure is also a must-do, a thrilling ride across the dunes that will leave you breathless. And be sure to sample the local cuisine, each dish a flavorful expression of Moroccan culture.

As the day draws to a close, I am reminded of a quote by Ibn Battuta, the famous Moroccan explorer:

Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.

And so, I continue to tell my story, one grain of sand at a time. I hope that my words inspire you to embark on your own adventures, to seek out new experiences, and to embrace the beauty and wonder of the world. I am sure you will not regret it!

Until tomorrow, may your dreams be filled with the whispers of the Sahara.