Desert Adventures in the Merzouga Region

First Impressions of the Desert

After a long journey from Berlin, with a connecting flight in Marrakesh, I've finally arrived in the captivating Merzouga Region. The shift from the familiar urban soundscapes to the profound silence of the desert is already stirring something deep within me. It's a stark contrast to my everyday life in Potsdam, and I can't wait to fully immerse myself in this new sonic environment.

The drive with my friends was long but filled with anticipation. As we approached Merzouga, the landscape transformed dramatically. The bustling city gave way to arid plains, and then, suddenly, the majestic dunes of the Sahara appeared on the horizon. It felt like entering another world. The September sun was intense, but the air was surprisingly dry, a welcome change from the humid German summer we left behind. According to the locals, the average temperature in Merzouga in September ranges from 21°C to 35°C. It's hot, but manageable with the right clothing and plenty of water.

Our first stop was Cafe Restaurant Merzouga for breakfast. It was a simple yet satisfying meal of traditional Moroccan bread, olives, and mint tea. The mint tea, or *atay*, is an integral part of Moroccan culture. I was told that preparing and serving it is an art form in itself. The cafe was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to start their day in the desert. The sounds of Arabic conversation, mixed with the gentle clinking of glasses, created a vibrant atmosphere. I made a mental note to record some of these sounds later, hoping to capture the essence of Merzouga's daily life.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café Restaurant Merzouga amidst breathtaking desert landscapes.

After breakfast, we ventured into the heart of Merzouga. The town itself is small, with a mix of traditional mud-brick buildings and more modern structures. The streets were filled with the sounds of mopeds and the calls of vendors selling their wares. We made our way to Merzouga Nomadic Art Crafts, a small shop showcasing the work of local artisans. I've always been fascinated by traditional crafts. I believe they offer a unique window into a culture's history and values. Here, I found an array of Berber carpets, pottery, and jewelry. The intricate patterns and vibrant colors of the carpets caught my eye. I learned that Berber art is characterized by its vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and symbolic designs. Each carpet tells a story, reflecting the artistic traditions of the Berber people.


Discover authentic Moroccan craftsmanship at Merzouga Nomadic Art Crafts, where local artisans showcase their beautiful handmade creations.

The desert is a silent symphony, each grain of sand a note in an ancient melody.

I purchased a small, handwoven rug with geometric designs. It will serve as a reminder of my time here and a source of inspiration for my soundscapes. I also picked up a few small trinkets as gifts for Lena. I know she'll appreciate the craftsmanship and the stories behind them. I miss her already, but I know she's excited for me to experience this adventure and bring back stories and sounds to share.

For lunch, we stopped at Cafe Restaurant Zahra. The aroma of spices filled the air as we entered. We ordered a variety of dishes to share, including tagine, couscous, and Berber pizza. The tagine, a slow-cooked stew with meat, vegetables, and spices, was particularly delicious. The couscous, served with a flavorful broth, was light and fluffy. And the Berber pizza, a flatbread baked in a wood-fired oven, was a savory delight. The food here is heavily influenced by the Berber culture and the desert environment. It's hearty, flavorful, and perfect for fueling our desert adventures.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Restaurant Zahra in Merzouga—where every meal tells a story amidst breathtaking desert views.

The afternoon was spent exploring the Sáhara Desert Merzouga. The sheer scale of the desert is overwhelming. The towering dunes stretch as far as the eye can see, an endless sea of sand. The wind whispers across the dunes, creating a mesmerizing soundscape. I set up my recording equipment, hoping to capture the subtle nuances of the desert wind. It's a challenge to record in such an open environment, but I'm determined to capture the essence of this unique soundscape.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Merzouga Desert, where towering dunes meet rich Berber culture and unforgettable adventures await.

As the sun began to set, we found a secluded spot to watch the spectacle. The sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors, from fiery oranges and reds to soft pinks and purples. The dunes glowed in the fading light, creating a breathtaking scene. The silence of the desert was broken only by the occasional rustle of the wind and the distant calls of birds. It was a moment of pure serenity, a reminder of the beauty and power of nature.

For dinner, we chose Café Restaurant Chez Youssef. I had heard great things about their Berber pizza and traditional Moroccan dishes. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. We ordered the Berber pizza, also known as medfouna, and a lamb tagine. The medfouna was delicious, filled with a savory mixture of meat, vegetables, and spices. The lamb tagine was tender and flavorful, cooked to perfection in a traditional clay pot. The friendly staff added to the overall positive dining experience, offering complimentary treats like madfouna and tea.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Restaurant Chez Youssef in Merzouga – your gateway to culinary delights amidst Sahara's beauty.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on my first impressions of Merzouga. The desert is a place of stark contrasts, a place of silence and sound, of barrenness and beauty. It's a place that challenges the senses and stirs the soul. I'm excited to spend the next few days exploring this unique environment and capturing its essence in my soundscapes. I'm particularly looking forward to tomorrow's exploration of Erg Chebbi and the Merzouga Dunes. I also plan to visit Kasbah Merzouga Bar in the evening.

Before heading to our campsite, we made one last stop at a local tea shop. I wanted to learn more about the art of making Moroccan mint tea. The shop owner, a friendly Berber man, showed me the traditional method of preparing the tea. He explained that the tea is not just a beverage; it's a symbol of hospitality and friendship. He shared stories of his nomadic ancestors and their deep connection to the desert. It was a reminder that Merzouga is not just a place; it's a community with a rich history and culture.

Back at the campsite, under a canopy of stars, the vastness of the Sahara truly hit me. The stars shone with an intensity I've never witnessed in Potsdam. The air was crisp and cool, a welcome change from the day's heat. I lay back, listening to the gentle sounds of the desert night. The distant drumming from a nearby Berber camp added a rhythmic pulse to the silence. I felt a sense of peace and connection to something larger than myself. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.

I am also mindful of the Trip Essentials I forgot to pack: extra batteries for my recording equipment and a sand-proof phone case! A rookie mistake, but one I'll rectify in the morning.

Tomorrow, I plan to fully explore Erg Chebbi and perhaps even try sandboarding. But for now, I'll let the whispers of the Sahara lull me to sleep, dreaming of the sounds I'll capture tomorrow.