Desert Adventures in the Merzouga Region

Adventures in the Erg Chebbi

Today was a whirlwind of sand, sun, and soul in the heart of the Merzouga region. As a sound engineer, I came seeking the whispers of the desert, but I found a symphony – a vibrant composition of experiences that resonated deep within me. It’s amazing how a place can imprint itself on your senses, leaving you forever changed.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Restaurant Tenere. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air, mingling with the anticipation of the adventures to come. Fuelled up, we met our 4x4 guide, ready to tackle the Erg Chebbi dunes. I have to admit, I was a little nervous. I'm more used to the quiet hum of my recording equipment than the roar of an engine, but the excitement in the air was infectious. My friends were practically bouncing with anticipation, and I found myself caught up in their enthusiasm.


Experience the rich flavors of authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café Restaurant Tenere in Merzouga, where every meal is a cultural journey.

The 4x4 experience was nothing short of exhilarating. Our driver expertly navigated the towering dunes, sending us soaring and dipping in a way that felt both thrilling and strangely calming. The landscape was breathtaking – a sea of sand stretching as far as the eye could see, the wind sculpting intricate patterns on its surface. I tried to capture the sound of the wind, but my microphone could barely handle it - the raw power of nature was something else.

The desert is a world unto itself, a place where time seems to slow down and the soul can finally breathe.

We stopped at several viewpoints, each offering a unique perspective on the vastness of the desert. I was particularly struck by the silence – a profound stillness that was broken only by the occasional gust of wind or the distant call of a bird. It was a far cry from the urban soundscapes of Potsdam, and I found myself strangely drawn to it. I even managed to get a few good recordings of the subtle sounds of the desert, which I'm eager to incorporate into my next project.

For lunch, we stopped at Snack chez Toufik, a local gem known for its traditional Moroccan cuisine. We feasted on tagine and couscous, savoring the rich flavors and spices that are so characteristic of this region. The lamb tagine with raisins was a particular highlight, the sweetness of the raisins perfectly complementing the savory lamb. It was a welcome break from the adrenaline of the morning, and a chance to connect with the local culture on a more intimate level. The owner, Toufik, was incredibly welcoming, sharing stories about his life in the desert and offering us mint tea, a symbol of hospitality in Morocco.


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

In the late afternoon, we found ourselves back in Merzouga, ready for a change of pace. We decided to embrace the local custom of unwinding with a drink at Merzouga Sky Camp. As the sun began to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, we sipped on local drinks and reflected on the day's adventures. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial, with fellow travelers sharing stories and laughter. I even struck up a conversation with a Berber musician, who told me about the history and traditions of Gnawa music, a spiritual and hypnotic genre that originated in this region.


Discover the enchanting Merzouga Sky Camp, where adventure meets comfort in the heart of the Sahara Desert for the entire family.

Dinner at Resturant Nora was a delightful culinary experience. The restaurant is known for its Berber pizza, a local specialty that resembles a stuffed pita bread filled with caramelized onions, vegetables, and spices. It was a delicious and satisfying meal, and a perfect way to end a day of exploration and adventure. The service was impeccable, and the staff went out of their way to make us feel welcome.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Nora in Khamlia—where tradition meets taste in every dish.

As the night deepened, we found ourselves drawn to the mesmerizing allure of the desert sky. We retreated to our campsite, away from the lights of Merzouga, and laid out blankets on the sand. The stars blazed with an intensity I had never witnessed before, a celestial tapestry woven across the darkness. We spent hours simply gazing upwards, lost in the immensity of the universe. I tried to capture the sounds of the night, but the microphone only picked up the gentle breathing of my friends and the distant murmur of the wind. It was a reminder that some experiences are best left unrecorded, to be savored in the moment and cherished in the memory.

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel – to immerse myself in new cultures, to challenge my senses, and to connect with the world on a deeper level. The Merzouga region has a magic about it, a quality that is both tangible and elusive. It's a place that stays with you long after you've left, a whisper in the wind that calls you back to its sandy embrace. I am so grateful that I got to experience this with my friends, and I know that these memories will stay with me forever.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Dunes d'Erg Chebbi and delve into more desert activities. I’m particularly excited about visiting Dépôt Nomade, a local shop, to find some unique souvenirs and perhaps learn more about Berber crafts. It will be another day of discovery, and I can't wait to see what the desert has in store for us.

As I sit here now, writing by the dim light of my tent, I can still feel the sand between my toes and hear the echoes of laughter in the air. The desert has a way of stripping away the unnecessary, leaving you with only the essential – friendship, wonder, and a profound appreciation for the beauty of the natural world. And as I drift off to sleep, I know that the symphony of Merzouga will continue to play in my dreams. The sound of silence, the touch of the sand, the taste of tagine – these are the souvenirs I will carry with me long after I leave this magical place.

I almost forgot to pack extra batteries for my recording equipment and a sand-proof phone case. I'll have to find a shop to buy these tomorrow!