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

Finding My Footing in the Sahara

The air is different here. It’s dry, warm, and carries the faintest scent of sand and spices – a stark contrast to the crisp, often damp air of Toronto. I’ve finally arrived in the Merzouga Region of Morocco, ready to embrace this solo adventure into the Sahara. After months of planning and dreaming, stepping onto this land feels surreal. It's a world away from my usual routine, and I'm eager to soak in every moment.

The journey here was quite something. The flight from Toronto to Marrakech was long, but the anticipation kept me going. From Marrakech, I opted for a scenic bus ride to Merzouga, wanting to see as much of the country as possible. The landscape transformed dramatically as we moved further inland, from lush greenery to the arid beauty of the desert. It was a long day of travel, but every kilometer brought me closer to the Sahara, and the excitement was building with each passing mile.

My first stop was Café Restaurant Rimal Merzouga for a much-needed breakfast. I savored a traditional Moroccan breakfast of bread, olives, and mint tea, which was the perfect way to start the day. The café was bustling with locals and a few tourists, all eager to start their day in the desert. The mint tea, in particular, was a delightful welcome, its sweetness and warmth a comforting contrast to the desert air.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Restaurant Rimal Merzouga—where culinary delights meet breathtaking desert views.

The desert is a place of profound silence and breathtaking beauty, where the soul can wander and find its own rhythm.

After breakfast, I ventured into the heart of Merzouga to visit the Sáhara Desert Merzouga. The sheer scale of the desert is awe-inspiring. The sand dunes stretch as far as the eye can see, an ocean of golden sand sculpted by the wind. I spent hours simply walking among the dunes, feeling the fine sand between my toes and marveling at the stark beauty of the landscape. It’s a world so different from my own, and I felt a sense of peace and wonder wash over me.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Merzouga Desert, where towering dunes meet rich Berber culture and unforgettable adventures await.

I made sure to visit Merzouga Nomadic Art Crafts, a small shop showcasing the talents of local artisans. I was captivated by the intricate designs and vibrant colors of the Berber carpets, jewelry, and pottery. I ended up purchasing a beautiful hand-woven scarf, a tangible reminder of my time here and a way to support the local community. It’s these small, authentic experiences that I cherish most when traveling.


Discover authentic Moroccan craftsmanship at Merzouga Nomadic Art Crafts, where local artisans showcase their beautiful handmade creations.

Lunch was at Cafe Restaurant Merzouga, another local gem. I enjoyed a delicious tagine, a traditional Moroccan stew cooked in a clay pot. The flavors were rich and complex, a blend of spices and tender meat that was incredibly satisfying. It was the perfect fuel for an afternoon of exploration.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café Restaurant Merzouga amidst breathtaking desert landscapes.

In the afternoon, I decided to Visit Merzouga Desert, opting for a camel ride to get a feel for the traditional way of traversing the dunes. The gentle sway of the camel was surprisingly soothing, and the views from atop the dunes were simply breathtaking. My guide, a local Berber man, shared stories of his nomadic heritage, offering a glimpse into a way of life deeply connected to the desert. He spoke of the challenges and the beauty of living in such a harsh environment, and I was struck by his resilience and deep respect for the land.


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

As the sun began to set, the desert transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. The sky was ablaze with hues of orange, pink, and purple, casting long shadows across the dunes. It was a moment of pure magic, one that I will never forget. I sat in silence, simply watching the sun dip below the horizon, feeling grateful for this incredible experience.

For dinner, I treated myself to a meal at Restaurant Berbere Palace Hotel Merzouga. The ambiance was elegant, and the food was a delightful fusion of traditional Moroccan cuisine and modern flavors. I savored every bite, reflecting on the day’s adventures and looking forward to what tomorrow would bring.


Experience authentic Halal Moroccan cuisine amidst the breathtaking beauty of Merzouga's Sahara Desert.

The weather today was perfect for exploring the desert. October in Merzouga offers pleasant temperatures, with daytime highs around 85°F (29°C) and clear, sunny skies. It's warm enough to enjoy the sun, but not so hot that it becomes unbearable. The evenings are cooler, making it comfortable for sleeping under the stars, which I'm hoping to do later in the trip.

I am a bit disappointed that I forgot my portable power bank. I am trying to capture as much as I can on my camera, and I do not want it to run out of charge while I am out in the desert. I also wish I had brought my travel guidebook of Morocco. It would be nice to have some extra information about the places I am visiting.

As I settle in for the night, I can't help but feel a sense of excitement for what tomorrow holds. According to the itinerary, I’ll be exploring Erg Chebbi and diving deeper into the Merzouga Desert Experience. I might even check out Kasbah Merzouga Bar in the evening for a taste of local nightlife.

Tonight, though, I'll fall asleep to the quiet whispers of the Sahara, dreaming of golden dunes and the adventures yet to come. This solo journey is already proving to be an unforgettable experience, and I can't wait to see what else the desert has in store for me.

The stars here are incredibly bright, unobscured by city lights. It's a humbling reminder of the vastness of the universe and my place within it. I feel a deep connection to nature, a sense of belonging that I rarely experience in my busy city life. This is exactly what I needed – a chance to disconnect from the noise and reconnect with myself.

I’m also finding myself reflecting on my life back in Toronto. I miss David and Jasmine, of course, but I also realize how much I needed this time alone. It’s a chance to recharge, to reflect on my goals and dreams, and to simply be present in the moment. As a community outreach coordinator, I spend so much time caring for others, that I forget to care for myself. This trip is a reminder that self-care is not selfish; it’s essential.

I’m also thinking about my Gombey dancing troupe back in Toronto. I wonder what they’re up to and if they’re practicing for our next performance. I miss the energy and camaraderie of the group, but I know that this experience will only enrich my dancing. I’ll bring back new inspiration and a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage that we celebrate.

Tomorrow, I hope to learn more about the Berber culture. I am fascinated by their traditions, their resilience, and their deep connection to the desert. I want to hear their stories, learn about their way of life, and understand their perspective on the world. I believe that cultural exchange is one of the most valuable aspects of travel, and I am eager to immerse myself in the local culture.

I'm also looking forward to taking more photographs tomorrow. The light in the desert is unlike anything I've ever seen, and I want to capture its beauty and share it with others. I want to document my journey, not just for myself, but also for my readers, to inspire them to explore the world and embrace new experiences. I think Patricia from Bermuda would be proud of the woman I have become.

As I drift off to sleep, I feel a sense of gratitude and contentment. Today was a day of discovery, of connection, and of pure joy. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings, and I am grateful for the opportunity to experience the magic of the Sahara.

I am also reminded of the importance of sustainability. As I travel, I am committed to minimizing my impact on the environment and supporting local communities. I want to ensure that future generations can experience the beauty of the desert, and I believe that responsible travel is essential to achieving that goal. This is something I will always keep in mind as I continue my journey.

And with that, I close my eyes, ready to embrace whatever adventures tomorrow may bring. The Sahara has welcomed me with open arms, and I am eager to explore its secrets and share its beauty with the world.