Sahara Adventure: Exploring the Merzouga Dunes with Friends

Embracing the Sahara's Soul

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the raw beauty of the Sahara with the unexpected luxury of our desert camp. It's fascinating how a place so seemingly desolate can offer such profound comfort and cultural richness. The experiences today have deepened my appreciation for the Berber way of life and the delicate balance they maintain with this harsh yet stunning environment.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at the Sky restaurant. Imagine waking up to panoramic views of the Erg Chebbi dunes bathed in the soft morning light. The air was crisp, a typical November morning in the desert, with temperatures ranging from a high of 22°C to a low of 9°C. After a fulfilling meal, we decided to explore the dunes on foot, feeling the cool sand between our toes. The sheer scale of Erg Chebbi is truly humbling. The undulating landscape stretches as far as the eye can see, a sea of golden sand sculpted by the wind. November is actually a hidden gem season to visit Morocco, with fewer crowds and comfortable temperatures.


Discover the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga, a breathtaking desert landscape perfect for adventure, culture, and serenity in the Sahara.

Later in the morning, we visited Dépôt Nomade, a local shop known for its beautiful Berber carpets and handicrafts. I was on the hunt for a unique piece to bring back home, something that would remind me of this incredible journey. The shop was a treasure trove of colors and textures, each item telling a story of the skilled artisans who crafted it. I finally settled on a small, intricately woven rug with vibrant earthy tones, a perfect memento of our Sahara adventure. I even managed to practice my limited Dutch with the shopkeeper, who was amused and patient with my attempts. It's these small interactions that truly enrich the travel experience.


Explore the vibrant Dépôt Nomade shopping mall in Hassilabied, where Moroccan culture meets modern retail in a unique and memorable shopping experience.

For lunch, we stopped at Café Restaurant Les Amis. The tagine was savory and flavorful, a perfect representation of Moroccan cuisine. The cozy atmosphere of the café made it a great spot to relax and refuel before our next adventure. The restaurant had a very local feel, and it was nice to experience a more casual dining setting.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café Restaurant Les Amis in Merzouga—where delightful flavors meet warm hospitality.

The desert is a place of stark beauty, where the simplicity of the landscape reveals profound truths about life and resilience.

In the afternoon, we indulged in the highlight of our day: a stay at the Sahara Desert Luxury Camp. The camp was an oasis of comfort amidst the rugged terrain. Our tent was spacious and beautifully decorated, complete with a comfortable bed and modern amenities. It was glamping at its finest! The staff welcomed us with traditional mint tea, a symbol of Moroccan hospitality. We settled in and took some time to relax, enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding dunes.


Discover ultimate comfort and adventure at the Sahara Desert Luxury Camp, the gateway to experiencing the majestic Sahara Desert in Morocco.

As the sun began to set, we joined a camel trek into the heart of the Sahara. Riding a camel was a surreal experience, a rhythmic sway that transported us to another world. The sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors, from fiery oranges to soft pinks, as the sun dipped below the horizon. The silence of the desert was broken only by the gentle padding of the camels' feet, creating a sense of profound peace and serenity. I shared a quiet moment with Jan in my thoughts, wishing he could experience this with me. I know he would have loved the tranquility and the sheer beauty of the desert sunset.

Back at the camp, we were treated to a traditional Berber dinner at Restaurant Cafe SaharaTime. The meal was a feast for the senses, with aromatic spices and flavors that danced on our tongues. We savored every bite, sharing stories and laughter with our friends. After dinner, we gathered around a bonfire, listening to traditional Berber music under the starry sky. The rhythmic beats and soulful melodies filled the air, creating a magical atmosphere. It was a perfect end to a perfect day, a celebration of culture, friendship, and the beauty of the Sahara.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Cafe SaharaTime - a culinary oasis nestled in Hassilabied's breathtaking desert landscape.

As I sit here now, writing this in our luxurious tent, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. The Sahara has a way of stripping away the unnecessary, leaving you with a sense of clarity and connection to something greater than yourself. It's a place where you can truly disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with your inner self.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of the area around Merzouga, taking in the top sights and immersing ourselves further in the local culture. We'll start with breakfast at Cafe Restaurant Touga, followed by visits to various attractions and end the day with drinks at Kasbah Merzouga Bar. I am looking forward to discovering more hidden gems and creating even more unforgettable memories. Good night from the Sahara!

Even though I did forget my portable charger and travel pillow, I'm so glad I packed my sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. The sunlight can be quite intense during the day, and the temperature drops significantly in the evening. Dressing in layers is definitely key to staying comfortable in the desert climate.