Solo Photography Journey Through the Merzouga Sands

Adventures and Goodbyes in the Sahara

As my final day in the Merzouga Region dawned, I felt a mix of excitement for the adventures ahead and a tinge of sadness knowing my time in this magical desert landscape was coming to an end. The Sahara had truly captured my heart, and I was determined to make the most of every last moment.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Restaurant Zahra. The familiar flavors of Moroccan cuisine were comforting, and I savored each bite, knowing it would fuel me for the morning's adventure. After breakfast, I couldn't resist a quick stop at Herbier kounouz sahara. I picked up a few small, fragrant gifts for Liam and myself, little reminders of the desert scents.


Discover the essence of Moroccan craftsmanship at Herbier Kounouz Sahara, your premier gift shop in Merzouga, offering unique treasures from the Sahara Desert.

With a sense of anticipation, I set off for the Sahara ATV Quad experience. I had never ridden a quad bike before, and the idea of speeding across the sand dunes was both exhilarating and slightly daunting. The guides were fantastic, ensuring everyone felt comfortable and safe before we revved up our engines. As I navigated the rolling dunes, the adrenaline rush was incredible. The vastness of the Sahara unfolded around me, and I felt an unparalleled sense of freedom. The wind whipped through my hair, and the sun warmed my skin as I embraced the thrill of the ride. I made sure to capture some photos along the way, trying to convey the sheer joy of the experience.


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

The desert is a vast, silent canvas upon which life paints its vibrant stories.

After the exhilarating quad adventure, I returned to Cafe Restaurant Zahra for a leisurely lunch. I indulged in a flavorful tagine, savoring the rich blend of spices and tender meat. Reflecting on my morning, I realized how much I had grown to appreciate the simple pleasures of life in the desert. The warmth of the sun, the taste of traditional food, and the thrill of exploration had all combined to create an unforgettable experience.

In the late afternoon, I made my way to the Bivouac Merzouga Experience. As the sun began its descent, casting long shadows across the dunes, I settled into the tranquil ambiance of the bivouac. The traditional tents offered a comfortable respite from the desert heat, and I took a moment to relax and reflect on my journey. I thought of Liam back in Canmore, and how much he would have loved to share this experience with me.


Discover the magic of the Sahara Desert at Bivouac Merzouga, where family adventures and Berber hospitality create unforgettable memories.

As evening approached, I joined the other guests for a traditional Moroccan dinner at Restaurant Jordi & Naima. The atmosphere was warm and convivial, and the aroma of delicious food filled the air. We shared stories and laughter as we savored the flavors of the Sahara. The lamb tagine was especially delicious, and the mint tea provided a refreshing end to the meal. The staff was incredibly kind, generous and helpful. The tents were comfortable and quiet.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Jordi & Naima in Merzouga, where flavors meet hospitality amid stunning desert scenery.

After dinner, I ventured out to the dunes to witness one last Merzouga sunset. As the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors, I felt a profound sense of gratitude for the experiences I had been fortunate enough to have. The solitude of the desert allowed me to connect with myself on a deeper level, and I realized that this journey had been more than just a photography trip; it had been a journey of self-discovery. I found the best sleep of the trip in the desert.

The air was mild, with temperatures hovering around 24°C during the day and cooling down to about 11°C at night. I was grateful for the layers I had packed, as the desert evenings can get surprisingly chilly. The wind was gentle, carrying the scent of sand and distant campfires. I took a few last photos, trying to capture the essence of the moment, but knew that no image could truly do justice to the beauty of the Sahara.

Back at the bivouac, under a canopy of stars, I journaled about my experiences, capturing the essence of my journey. I wrote about the challenges I had overcome, the beauty I had witnessed, and the lessons I had learned. As I drifted off to sleep, I felt a sense of peace and contentment, knowing that I would carry the memories of Merzouga with me forever.

Although my trip has come to an end, I am already planning my next adventure. I am eager to return home to Canmore, to share my stories and photos with Liam, and to begin planning our next journey together. Perhaps we'll explore the Nordic Noir landscapes of Scandinavia, or embark on a wildlife conservation expedition in Glacier National Park. Whatever the future holds, I know that the spirit of adventure will always guide my path.

And so, with a bittersweet farewell to the Sahara, I close this chapter of my journey. But as every ending is a new beginning, I look forward to sharing my next adventure with you all soon. Thank you for joining me on this incredible experience!