Desert Adventures in the Merzouga Region

Desert Dust and Delicious Discoveries

Today was all about embracing the raw, unbridled energy of the Sahara. I woke up with a sense of anticipation, a feeling that today would be a day of exploration and adventure. The plan was simple: immerse ourselves in the desert landscape, feel the adrenaline of an ATV ride, and savor the local flavors of Merzouga. It was a day that engaged all the senses, from the roar of the engine to the taste of authentic Moroccan cuisine.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe_Snack_Restaurant_ Hamid. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the anticipation of the day ahead. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast of msemen, a type of flaky pancake, drizzled with honey. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our desert adventure. The cafe was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day in Merzouga.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Snack Restaurant Hamid in Merzouga – where every dish tells a story.

After breakfast, we headed straight for the main event: the Sahara ATV Quad experience. The dunes of Erg Chebbi were calling, and we were ready to answer. After a quick safety briefing and gear check, we mounted our ATVs and revved the engines. The feeling of power beneath me was exhilarating. With a twist of the throttle, we were off, tearing through the sand like desert nomads.


Explore the stunning Sahara Desert on an exhilarating ATV Quad adventure in Merzouga, where adventure meets breathtaking landscapes.

The landscape was breathtaking. Towering dunes stretched as far as the eye could see, their golden peaks shimmering under the clear September sun. The air was dry and warm, carrying the scent of sand and adventure. As a sound engineer, I was particularly attuned to the sounds of the desert. The roar of the ATV engine created a unique counterpoint to the otherwise silent landscape. I even managed to capture some clean recordings of the engine against the backdrop of the whispering wind – Lena will be so thrilled to hear this!

We rode for hours, exploring hidden paths and conquering steep dunes. The adrenaline rush was incredible as we navigated the challenging terrain. At one point, we stopped at a high dune to take in the panoramic view. The vastness of the Sahara was humbling, a reminder of the power and beauty of nature.

To truly appreciate the desert, you must feel its vastness, hear its silence, and let its beauty seep into your soul.

After our exhilarating ATV ride, we were famished. We stopped for lunch at Snack chez Toufik, a cozy little spot known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine. I ordered the lamb tagine with raisins, which came highly recommended. The tagine was served in a traditional earthenware pot, the aroma alone was enough to make my mouth water. The lamb was tender and flavorful, the sweetness of the raisins perfectly complementing the savory spices. It was, without a doubt, one of the best meals I’ve had on this trip.


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

As we savored our tagine, Lena and I chatted with the owner of Snack chez Toufik. He shared stories about his life in Merzouga, his family, and the traditions of the Berber people. It was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places, but also about connecting with the people who call those places home. I even picked up a few Darija phrases, which I’m sure will come in handy.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to explore another aspect of Merzouga's culture: its herbal remedies. We visited Herbier kounouz sahara, a local shop specializing in traditional Saharan herbs and medicines. The shop was filled with jars of dried herbs, spices, and various concoctions, each promising a unique health benefit. I picked up a few items to bring back home, intrigued by the natural remedies used by the Berber people.


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 sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the dunes, we made our way to Cafe Restaurant Itran for dinner. The restaurant offered a beautiful view of the desert, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. I ordered a simple grilled chicken dish, wanting something light after our heavy lunch. The chicken was perfectly cooked, tender and juicy, and seasoned with local herbs. The meal was a fitting end to a day filled with adventure and discovery.


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

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I’m excited to explore more of the desert landscape. Our itinerary includes a visit to Lala Lallia Gran Dune, the highest dune in the area, and a tour Around Merzouga. I’m also looking forward to relaxing at Bar TABAA in the evening, perhaps enjoying a refreshing drink as we recount the day’s adventures. However, I am mostly looking forward to another opportunity to capture the unique soundscapes of the Sahara.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. The Merzouga Region has a way of captivating you, of drawing you into its unique rhythm and beauty. It’s a place where adventure and tranquility coexist, where the roar of an ATV engine can blend seamlessly with the silence of the desert. It’s a place I know I will never forget.

The desert has a certain way of making you feel small, yet connected to something much larger than yourself. It’s a feeling I will carry with me long after I leave this magical place.