Solo Photography Journey Through the Merzouga Sands

Whispers in the Sand

Today was a day of embracing the vastness and silence of the Sahara. Away from the familiar comforts of Canmore, I found a different kind of solace amidst the dunes of Merzouga. It's amazing how a landscape so stark can be so incredibly full of life, color and texture. I felt a deep connection to the earth today, a feeling I wanted to share with Liam, missing him but knowing this journey of solitude is something special.

My day began with a simple breakfast at Welcome to the desert. The name itself felt like an invitation, and the warm hospitality I experienced truly made me feel at home. The traditional Moroccan breakfast was delicious and gave me the energy I needed for the day ahead.


Savor authentic Moroccan cuisine amidst breathtaking desert views in Merzouga's hidden gem restaurant.

The main event was my visit to the Merzouga Desert. I had been looking forward to this since I booked my flights, and it didn't disappoint. The Sahara is even more impressive in person than in photographs. The sheer scale of the dunes is hard to comprehend, and the way the light plays across the sand creates a constantly shifting landscape of colors and shadows. The average temperature in Merzouga in November typically ranges from 9°C to 22°C, making it perfect for exploring the desert.


Explore the enchanting Merzouga Desert, home to towering dunes, vibrant culture, and unforgettable adventures under the stars.

I decided to embark on a Sahara Safari adventure, opting for a camel trek to fully immerse myself in the experience. There's something magical about traversing the dunes on these gentle giants, their rhythmic steps creating a soothing soundtrack to the desert silence. I made sure to bring my camera to capture the stunning views of the Sahara. The clear skies and lower sun angles in November create perfect conditions for photography.


Experience the thrill of the Sahara Desert like never before with Sahara Safari Adventure's exhilarating ATV rentals and breathtaking landscapes.

The desert is a vast canvas, each grain of sand a brushstroke in a masterpiece painted by the sun and wind.

During my trek, I stopped for lunch at Cafe_Snack_Restaurant_ Hamid. It was a delightful respite from the sun, and I enjoyed a tasty meal while chatting with some other travelers. I even picked up a few phrases in Berber, the local language. It is always a humbling experience to try and communicate in a language other than your own. It really makes you appreciate the diversity of our world.


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

After lunch, I continued my exploration of the desert. I spent hours wandering among the dunes, taking photographs, and simply soaking in the atmosphere. The silence was broken only by the occasional whisper of the wind, and I felt a sense of peace and solitude that I rarely experience in my busy life back home. I even managed to capture some incredible shots of a desert fox, its fur blending seamlessly with the sand.

As the sun began to set, I made my way to Dépôt Nomade, a local shop known for its beautiful carpets and crafts. I wanted to find a special souvenir to remind me of my time in the Sahara, and I wasn't disappointed. I found a stunning Berber carpet with intricate geometric patterns. I bartered with the shopkeeper, a friendly man who shared stories of his nomadic heritage. I learned that these carpets aren't just decorative items; they're woven with symbolism, each pattern telling a story of the weaver's life and experiences.


Explore the vibrant Dépôt Nomade shopping mall in Hassilabied, where Moroccan culture meets modern retail in a unique and memorable shopping experience.

I also made sure to pick up a small tagine pot. I plan to try my hand at cooking some traditional Moroccan dishes for Liam when I get back to Canmore. I know he will appreciate the effort, and it will be a fun way to share my experiences with him.

For dinner, I went to Restaurant Cafe SaharaTime. The tagine was fantastic, and the mint tea was the perfect way to end the day. Sipping the warm, sweet tea, I reflected on everything I had experienced. The Sahara had challenged me, inspired me, and left me with a profound sense of gratitude. I thought about how lucky I am to have the opportunity to travel and see the world, and I made a promise to myself to never take these experiences for granted.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Cafe SaharaTime - a culinary oasis nestled in Hassilabied's breathtaking desert landscape.

As I sit here now, writing this entry, I can still feel the warmth of the sun on my skin and the sand between my toes. The desert has a way of getting into your soul, and I know that a part of me will always remain here, among these majestic dunes.

Tomorrow, I am planning to explore more of Merzouga with a 4x4 excursion to Erg Chebbi, I'm looking forward to seeing more of the area and capturing more of its beauty with my camera. Maybe I'll even find another hidden gem to bring back home to Liam.

I am so grateful for this opportunity to explore the Sahara Desert. It is an experience that I will never forget. The vastness of the landscape, the silence, and the beauty of the dunes are truly awe-inspiring. If you ever have the chance to visit Merzouga, I highly recommend it. It is a place that will stay with you long after you leave.

Goodnight from the Sahara.