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

Whispers of the Sahara

Today was a day of surrendering to the vastness and beauty of the Sahara. It's amazing how quickly the desert strips away the unnecessary, leaving you with a profound sense of peace and connection to something far greater than yourself. As someone who spends much of their time coordinating environmental sustainability initiatives, being in a place that is so raw and untouched reminds me of what we're fighting to protect.

My day began with a delightful breakfast at Cafe Restaurant Chez Youssef. The simple pleasure of strong coffee and traditional Moroccan bread was the perfect way to greet the sunrise. The warmth of the local hospitality made me feel right at home, a feeling I always cherish when traveling solo. It’s moments like these that remind me why I love venturing out on my own – you become so much more open to the small, genuine interactions that truly enrich a journey.


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

After breakfast, I decided to visit Ali & Sara's Desert Palace. What an incredible place! The drive there was an adventure in itself, with the landscape transforming into the iconic Erg Chebbi dunes. Upon arrival, I was greeted with such warmth and genuine hospitality. The staff, especially Mohammed, Hussein, and Hamid, made me feel like a cherished guest. It's a beautiful and luxurious camp, with huge tents and private bathrooms. The beds were also the best I've had in Morocco.


Discover the magic of the Sahara at Ali & Sara's Desert Palace, where adventure meets comfort amidst the stunning Erg Chebbi Dunes in Morocco.

Exploring the majestic Merzouga Dunes was the main event of the day. The sheer scale of these dunes is breathtaking. I spent hours simply wandering, snapping photos, and feeling the fine sand between my toes. The way the light plays across the dunes, creating ever-shifting patterns of light and shadow, is a photographer's dream. I made sure to have my camera ready, as I knew I would want to capture the scenery. I even tried my hand at sandboarding, which was far more challenging (and hilarious) than I anticipated!


Discover the breathtaking Merzouga Dunes, a stunning desert landscape in Morocco perfect for adventure seekers and cultural experiences.

The desert is a space where time ceases to matter, and the soul can finally breathe.

Lunch was a treat at Cafe Restaurant Zahra. I opted for a traditional tagine, savoring the rich flavors and fragrant spices. It was the perfect fuel for an afternoon of exploration. While enjoying my meal, I journaled about my experiences and some of the wonderful things I had seen so far. I also took the time to reflect on how lucky I was to be able to take this trip. I am always appreciative of my husband, David, and daughter, Jasmine, for supporting my solo adventures.


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

As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, I made my way back to the dunes to witness the sunset. The sky exploded with color, painting the sand in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a truly magical experience, one that I know I will carry with me long after I leave Merzouga. I found a quiet spot and practiced some mindful breathing, feeling grateful for the beauty surrounding me. I thought about my Gombey dance troupe back in Toronto and how the vibrant colors of the sunset reminded me of our costumes.

For dinner, I indulged in a delicious meal at Restaurant & Cafe Zaid Merzouga. The atmosphere was lively, and the food was fantastic. I tried a local specialty, which was a flavorful and satisfying end to the day. I enjoyed the opportunity to immerse myself in the local culture and cuisine.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant & Cafe Zaid Merzouga, your perfect retreat in the stunning landscapes of Erg Chebbi.

To cap off the evening, I decided to check out Riad Tighmart Merzouga. I enjoyed a refreshing drink while soaking in the ambiance. The stars were incredibly bright, and I spent some time stargazing, marveling at the vastness of the universe. Out there in the desert, far from city lights, the stars seemed so close I could almost touch them. It reminded me of stargazing back home in Bermuda, a cherished memory from my childhood.


Experience serene desert vibes at Riad Tighmart Merzouga, your ultimate oasis in the heart of the Sahara.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I'm excited about the Sahara Safari Adventure and exploring more of the Merzouga Attractions Erg Chebbi. I also plan to visit DRISS FOSSILS AND MINERLAS SHOP. I'm sure it will be another day filled with incredible sights and experiences. For now, I'm content to drift off to sleep under the starlit Sahara sky, feeling grateful for this incredible journey.

The desert has a way of quieting the mind and opening the heart. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most profound experiences come from simply being present in the moment, surrounded by the beauty of the natural world. As I reflect on my work with environmental sustainability, I am more inspired than ever to continue making a difference. I am also reminded of the importance of cultural heritage preservation, as the Berber culture is so rich and unique. It is truly an honor to be able to experience it firsthand. Goodnight from the Sahara!

Tomorrow, I'm looking forward to exploring the desert further with a Sahara Safari Adventure, and maybe even picking up a souvenir at DRISS FOSSILS AND MINERLAS SHOP. But for now, the stars are calling my name. I'm falling asleep with the sounds of the desert lulling me into a peaceful slumber.