Solo Journey into the Sahara: Exploring Morocco's Merzouga Region

Whispers of the Sahara

Today was a symphony of sand and sun, a day where the vastness of the Sahara Desert truly seeped into my soul. I wandered through the dunes, tasted the local flavors, and discovered treasures tucked away in the heart of Merzouga. It’s a journey that reminds me why I set out on this solo adventure in the first place – to find myself in the silence and grandeur of nature.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Restaurant Touga. I savored traditional Moroccan pancakes, fluffy and light, drizzled with local honey. The sweetness was the perfect start to a day I knew would be filled with exploration. Fuelled and ready, I set off to conquer the famed Lala Lallia Gran Dune.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lala Lallia Gran Dune in Morocco, where golden sands meet vibrant sunsets in the heart of the Sahara Desert.

Lala Lallia, meaning “highest sacred point” in the local Berber language, is a star dune that rises about 100 meters above the surrounding dunes. The sheer size of it was humbling. As I climbed, each step was a challenge, the sand shifting beneath my feet. But the panoramic view from the top? Absolutely worth it. The landscape stretched out before me, an ocean of sand rippling towards the horizon. I could see the border with Algeria in the distance, a stark reminder of the Sahara's immensity.

I spent a good hour just sitting there, letting the wind whip through my hair and the sun warm my skin. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to reflect on everything and nothing at all. I thought about David and Jasmine back home in Toronto, wondering what they were up to. I miss them, of course, but this solo time is precious. It’s a chance to reconnect with myself, something that’s often lost in the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The desert is a place of whispers, where the wind carries secrets and the sand holds stories of ancient times.

After descending from Lala Lallia, I explored the area around Merzouga. I stumbled upon a local shop, Herbier Kounouz Sahara, a treasure trove of traditional Berber remedies and crafts.


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

The owner, a kind woman with eyes that held the wisdom of generations, showed me various herbs and spices used for healing and cooking. I bought a small pouch of saffron, its vibrant threads promising to add a touch of Moroccan sunshine to my meals back home.

Lunch was a delightful affair at Cafe_Snack_Restaurant_ Hamid.


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

I opted for a classic tagine, a slow-cooked stew of chicken, vegetables, and aromatic spices. The flavors were rich and complex, a testament to the Berber culinary tradition. As I ate, I chatted with a couple from France, sharing travel stories and tips. It’s amazing how food can bring people together, even in the most remote corners of the world.

In the afternoon, I wandered through the streets of Merzouga, soaking in the local atmosphere. The village is a mix of traditional mud-brick houses and more modern buildings, a reflection of its evolving identity. I watched children playing in the sand, their laughter echoing through the air. I saw men gathered in cafes, sipping mint tea and discussing the day’s events. It was a glimpse into a way of life that’s both ancient and vibrant.

As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, I found myself drawn back to the dunes. I wanted to witness the sunset, a daily spectacle that paints the Sahara in hues of gold and crimson. I climbed another dune, not as high as Lala Lallia, but offering equally stunning views. As the sun touched the horizon, the sky exploded with color. It was a breathtaking moment, a reminder of the beauty and power of nature.

For dinner, I treated myself to a meal at L'Homme du Désert.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine and hospitality at L'Homme du Désert, your oasis in Merzouga's enchanting landscape.

The restaurant had a cozy, inviting atmosphere, with traditional Berber décor and soft lighting. I ordered a Berber pizza, also known as medfouna, a local specialty. It’s a flatbread stuffed with spiced meat and vegetables, cooked in a traditional oven. It was absolutely delicious, a perfect blend of savory and spicy flavors.

After dinner, I sat outside, gazing at the stars. The desert sky is like nothing else I’ve ever seen, a vast expanse of darkness dotted with countless twinkling lights. I felt a sense of peace and contentment wash over me, a feeling of being exactly where I was meant to be. I thought about tomorrow’s adventure, a trip to Bivouac Merzouga Experience and the Sahara Desert Morocco. I’m excited to delve deeper into the desert, to experience its magic up close. I plan on stopping by Fossiles Mineraux Merzouga to look at some ancient artifacts. I am also looking forward to grabbing breakfast at Café Restaurant Les Amis, lunch at Cafe Snack Restaurant Said, and dinner at Cafe Restaurant Itran.

Before drifting off to sleep, I made a note in my journal. Today was a day of discovery, a day of connection, a day of pure magic. The Sahara has a way of getting under your skin, of whispering secrets to your soul. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.

The Sahara in October is proving to be quite pleasant. The days are warm, with temperatures hovering around 30°C (86°F). The nights, however, can get cooler, dropping to around 18°C (64°F). It's the perfect weather for exploring the dunes and enjoying outdoor activities. There's also very little rain in October, so I haven't had to worry about packing rain gear. The sunrises occur around 7:19 AM, and sunsets around 6:44 PM, leaving plenty of daylight for exploration.

As I reflect on today, I’m reminded of something my grandmother used to say:

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are the ones we take alone, for it is in solitude that we truly discover ourselves.

And tonight, under the vast, star-studded sky of the Sahara, I feel like I’m finally starting to understand what she meant. Goodnight from Merzouga.