Solo Photography Journey Through the Merzouga Sands

Sahara's Embrace: A Day of Dunes and Discovery

Today was a day of pure sensory overload, in the best possible way. The vast expanse of the Sahara Desert, specifically the Dunes d'Erg Chebbi, has a way of humbling you, reminding you of the earth's ancient beauty and raw power. It was a day filled with adrenaline, delicious food, and the kind of quiet contemplation that only a desert can inspire.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Restaurant Merzouga. The strong coffee and traditional Moroccan pancakes, msemen, were just what I needed to fuel up for the adventures ahead. The cafe buzzed with a mix of locals and tourists, all eager to start their day in this unique corner of the world. After breakfast, it was time to dive headfirst into the Sahara with a Merzouga 4x4 tour.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Sahara Desert with Merzouga 4x4, where adventure meets culture in an unforgettable desert experience.

The morning was dedicated to exploring the Dunes d'Erg Chebbi. What better way to experience the majesty of the Sahara than tearing across the sand in a 4x4? The adrenaline rush was incredible as we navigated the towering dunes, the vehicle expertly handled by our local guide. The landscape was surreal, a sea of sand stretching as far as the eye could see. The play of light and shadow on the dunes was mesmerizing, every turn offering a new perspective and photographic opportunity. I made sure to capture as much as I could with my camera, knowing these images would be treasured memories of a truly unique experience.

We stopped at several vantage points, each offering panoramic views of the Erg Chebbi. The silence, broken only by the wind whistling across the dunes, was profound. It's a silence that allows you to hear your own thoughts, to connect with something larger than yourself. I took a few moments to simply breathe, to soak in the vastness and the stillness of the desert. The fine sand sifted between my fingers as I sat atop one of the higher dunes, feeling utterly insignificant yet completely connected to this ancient landscape.

The desert is a vast and silent canvas, where the wind paints stories in the sand.

For lunch, we headed to Snack Mustapha, a local favorite known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine. I opted for a tagine, a slow-cooked stew of meat and vegetables, flavored with aromatic spices. The tagine was served in a traditional earthenware pot, the steam releasing a fragrant aroma that made my mouth water. Every bite was a burst of flavor, a testament to the skill and passion of the local cooks. It was a simple meal, but incredibly satisfying, a perfect reflection of the warmth and hospitality of the Moroccan people. I savored every last bit of the tagine with some traditional mint tea.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Snack Mustapha in Merzouga - where every dish tells a story.

After lunch, the 4x4 adventure continued, taking us deeper into the desert. We visited a nomadic family, learning about their traditional way of life and sharing a cup of mint tea in their tent. It was a humbling experience, seeing how these resilient people thrive in such a harsh environment. Their warmth and generosity were truly inspiring, a reminder that human connection transcends all boundaries.

As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we made our way back towards Merzouga, the sky ablaze with color. The sunset over the Erg Chebbi was a spectacle of light and shadow, a breathtaking display of nature's artistry. The dunes transformed into a fiery landscape, the sand glowing with an otherworldly radiance. It was a moment of pure magic, a perfect ending to an unforgettable day.

For dinner, I decided to try Kasr Diafa Restaurant & Snack & Cafe. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, the perfect place to unwind after a day of desert adventures. I enjoyed a delicious meal of grilled meats and fresh salads, savoring the flavors of Morocco one last time before heading back to my guesthouse.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Kasr Diafa Restaurant & Snack & Cafe in Merzouga—where tradition meets flavor.

I ended the day with a visit to Bar TABAA, a local bar known for its lively atmosphere and refreshing drinks. It was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures, sharing stories with fellow travelers and locals alike.


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.

Reflecting on today, I am reminded of how important it is to step outside of our comfort zones and embrace new experiences. The Sahara Desert is a place that challenges you, inspires you, and ultimately changes you. It’s a landscape that demands respect, a place where you can truly connect with yourself and with the world around you.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of the area around Merzouga, visiting places like See Around Morocco and Mouhou Tours Company. I also hope to do some shopping at DRISS FOSSILS AND MINERALS SHOP. I'm excited to see what new adventures tomorrow will bring, but for now, I'm content to bask in the memories of this incredible day in the Sahara.

The vastness of the desert, the warmth of the people, and the sheer beauty of the landscape have left an indelible mark on my soul. This solo photography journey through the Merzouga sands has been an experience of a lifetime, one that I will cherish forever. As I prepare for the next leg of my journey, I carry with me the lessons learned in the desert, the memories made under the Saharan sun, and a renewed appreciation for the beauty and fragility of our planet. Good night from Merzouga!

I am also reminded that Liam would have loved this adventure. Perhaps one day we can return together and share this magical experience.

I must remember to buy a portable solar charger tomorrow, as my electronics are constantly running out of power.