Desert Adventures in the Merzouga Region

A Fond Farewell to the Desert

As our desert adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey we've shared. Today was all about soaking in the last moments of Merzouga's unique charm, from exploring local crafts to savoring the authentic flavors of Moroccan cuisine. It’s amazing how a place so seemingly barren can be so full of life and vibrant culture.

The final day in the Merzouga region arrived with the sun, painting the dunes in hues of gold and amber. I woke up early, eager to capture the serene sounds of the Sahara one last time. The wind whispered secrets through the sand, a symphony I was determined to record and bring back to Potsdam. Lena would love to hear this, I thought, as I adjusted the microphone, trying to isolate the delicate sounds from the morning bustle of our campsite. It's these little details that make a place unforgettable. I was grateful for this opportunity to capture the essence of the desert.

The journey may be ending, but the memories and sounds of the Sahara will resonate long after we've left its golden sands.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Snack Restaurant Said. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee filled the air, a comforting start to the day. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with msemen (buttery flatbread) and a steaming pot of mint tea. The combination of sweet and savory flavors was the perfect fuel for our morning adventures. My friends and I sat around a communal table, sharing stories and laughter as we savored our meal. It was a moment of simple joy, a reminder of the bonds we had forged during our time in the desert. I made sure to get some extra tea, as I knew the day would be long, especially with the desert sun beating down on us.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café Snack Restaurant Said in Merzouga – where flavor meets tradition amidst stunning desert landscapes.

After breakfast, we decided to explore the local shops. Morocco Products Shop was our first stop. This shop is known for specializing in Moroccan handicrafts from different regions of the kingdom. Mohamed and Hassan, the owners, aim to share Moroccan artisan products with the world. The shop had carpets, pottery, and leather goods. I was on the hunt for a unique souvenir, something that would remind me of the Sahara's beauty and tranquility. I finally settled on a handwoven Berber rug, its intricate design mirroring the patterns of the sand dunes. It was a bit pricey, but I knew it was worth it. This rug will look great in our living room, I thought, and every time I see it, I'll be transported back to the Sahara.


Explore the rich tapestry of Moroccan culture through exquisite handicrafts and carpets at the Morocco Products Shop in Merzouga.

For lunch, we stopped at Cafe Restaurant Tenere. The cafe had a relaxed atmosphere. I ordered a tagine, a traditional Moroccan stew, cooked in a conical earthenware pot. The aroma alone was enough to make my mouth water. The tagine was a medley of flavors and textures, from the tender meat to the sweet dried fruits. It was a culinary masterpiece, a testament to Morocco's rich culinary heritage. As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such authentic cuisine. I made sure to ask the waiter for the recipe, hoping to recreate the dish back in Potsdam. Lena would be so impressed, I thought, as I scribbled down the ingredients on a napkin.


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

In the afternoon, we decided to take a See Around Morocco tour. This tour gave us a broader perspective on the region, beyond the immediate vicinity of Merzouga. The tour guide, a local Berber, shared stories and insights about the area's history, culture, and natural wonders. He pointed out hidden oases, ancient caravan routes, and unique geological formations. I was fascinated by the depth of knowledge and the passion with which he spoke about his homeland. I tried to record some of his stories, hoping to incorporate them into my travel blog. This is the kind of authentic experience that my readers crave, I thought, as I carefully transcribed his words into my notebook.


Unveil the magic of Merzouga with See Around Morocco, your guide to unforgettable Sahara adventures and rich cultural experiences.

As the day drew to a close, we gathered for our final dinner at Kasr Diafa Restaurant & Snack & Cafe. This place is known for its delicious food and hospitality. The restaurant had a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a farewell meal. I ordered a pizza, which was surprisingly good. The crust was crispy, the sauce was flavorful, and the toppings were fresh. It was a satisfying end to a day filled with culinary delights. As we ate, we reminisced about our favorite moments of the trip, from the camel trek to the sandboarding adventure. We laughed, we shared stories, and we raised a toast to the memories we had made. I felt a pang of sadness as I realized that our journey was coming to an end. But I also felt a sense of gratitude for the experiences we had shared and the bonds we had forged. Kasr Diafa is also known for its friendly cats, which added to the unique dining experience.


Experience the authentic taste of Morocco at Kasr Diafa Restaurant & Snack & Cafe, offering delicious grilled dishes in the heart of Merzouga.

Before heading back to our camp for the night, I took a final stroll through the town. The air was filled with the sounds of music and laughter, a vibrant celebration of life. I paused for a moment, closing my eyes and taking a deep breath. I wanted to imprint this moment in my memory, to carry it with me long after I had left Merzouga. The desert had a way of getting into your soul, of changing your perspective, and of reminding you of the simple joys of life. I smiled, knowing that I would never forget this experience. I had heard that Merzouga had the largest natural underground body of water in the country.

As I packed my bags, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment. I had captured the sounds of the Sahara, I had explored the local culture, and I had forged lasting memories with my friends. This trip had been more than just a vacation, it had been a journey of self-discovery, a chance to connect with nature, and an opportunity to appreciate the beauty of the world. I was grateful for the experiences I had shared with my friends, and I knew that we would always cherish the memories we had made in the Sahara. Tomorrow, we start our journey back home, carrying with us the spirit of the desert and the warmth of Moroccan hospitality.

Tomorrow marks the end of our trip. It's time to head back to Marrakesh and then catch my flight back to Berlin. I'm looking forward to seeing Lena and sharing all my stories and recordings with her. But a part of me will always remain in the Sahara, among the golden dunes and the whispering winds. Until next time, Merzouga.