Sahara Adventure: Exploring the Merzouga Dunes with Friends

A Day Immersed in Merzouga's Soul

Today was all about diving deep into the heart of Merzouga, connecting with the local culture, and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel—the chance to step outside my everyday life and experience something truly authentic. With my friends by my side, I knew today would be special.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Cafe Restaurant Itran. The cozy atmosphere and beautiful views made it the perfect spot to start our morning. I ordered a traditional Moroccan tea, the mint fragrant and invigorating, and we enjoyed some tasty omelettes. It was the perfect fuel for the day's adventures. The cafe had a lovely terrace, though it was a little noisy, but the friendly staff and good vibes more than made up for it.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café Restaurant Itran in Merzouga, where every meal is a journey into local culture and flavor.

After breakfast, we met with Days In Morocco, a local tour operator. They were so passionate about sharing their culture and history, and I was excited to learn more about the area from a local perspective. We spent the morning exploring the hidden gems of Merzouga, wandering through the local markets and learning about traditional Berber life. The vibrant colors, fragrant spices, and the sounds of the bustling market were a feast for the senses. I even tried my hand at bargaining for a beautiful scarf, putting my (limited) Dutch haggling skills to the test.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Morocco with Days In Morocco, your premier travel agency for unforgettable desert adventures and cultural experiences.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you never thought to ask.

For lunch, we stopped at Snack le cedre, a charming eatery known for its delicious local cuisine. I had heard they have the best fries in town, so of course, I had to try them. They were perfectly crispy and bursting with flavor. We also shared a tortilla, which was equally delicious. The staff were incredibly friendly, making our dining experience even more enjoyable. It was a simple meal, but it was packed with flavor and authenticity.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Snack le Cedre in Merzouga – where every dish tells a story!

In the afternoon, we embarked on a tour with Morocco Bedouin Tours. This was an opportunity to experience the Sahara Desert up close and personal. We rode camels through the stunning desert landscapes, feeling like true nomads as we traversed the golden dunes. The vastness and beauty of the desert were breathtaking, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the natural world.


Experience the enchanting beauty of Merzouga, a desert paradise with breathtaking dunes, rich Berber culture, and unforgettable adventures.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Bar TABAA for a refreshing drink. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and we enjoyed chatting with locals and fellow travelers alike. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.


Discover the lively ambiance of Bar TABAA in Merzouga, where you can enjoy refreshing drinks and immerse yourself in local culture amidst stunning desert landscapes.

For dinner, we headed to Restaurant & Cafe Zaid Merzouga. This place came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. I had a delicious tagine, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The staff were attentive and friendly, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant & Cafe Zaid Merzouga, your perfect retreat in the stunning landscapes of Erg Chebbi.

One of the highlights of the day was a spontaneous conversation with a local Berber artisan. He shared stories of his family and their traditional way of life, and I was struck by his warmth and generosity. It’s moments like these that make travel so rewarding, when you connect with people on a human level and gain a deeper understanding of their culture.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the magic of Merzouga. From the vibrant markets to the stunning desert landscapes, every moment has been a feast for the senses. And as I look ahead to tomorrow, I am excited to continue exploring this beautiful region and discovering even more of its hidden treasures.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Sahara Desert Morocco to explore more of the desert landscapes and also experience Merzouga 4x4. I am looking forward to another day filled with adventure and cultural immersion, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Tonight, though, I'm just happy to be here, in this moment, surrounded by good friends and the magic of Morocco. I am also glad that I get to share these experiences with my husband Jan, even though he is not physically here with me. I know he would have enjoyed the camel ride.

I am also grateful that I remembered to pack my sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, and lightweight clothing. I am however missing my portable charger and travel pillow.

I am looking forward to sharing more stories with you all!