Desert Adventures in the Merzouga Region

Merzouga's Embrace

Today was a day of embracing the raw beauty and warm hospitality of Merzouga. The Sahara has a way of seeping into your soul, and I felt it today more than ever. From the moment the sun peeked over the horizon, painting the dunes in hues of gold and crimson, I knew it would be a day to remember.


Experience the majestic Sahara Desert in Merzouga, a haven for adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts alike.
We started the day with breakfast at Snack Mustapha. Now, I'm not usually one for a big breakfast, but the promise of local flavors was too tempting to resist. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast – a medley of freshly baked bread, olives, and a spicy harissa that woke up my taste buds. It was simple, hearty, and exactly what I needed to fuel up for the day's adventures. The restaurant had a family vibe, which I appreciated. It reminded me of Sunday mornings back in Linstead, with the aroma of my mother's cooking filling the air. I missed Klara and Naomi, but I knew they would have loved this experience. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes when I get back to Berlin. Yaad Vibes could use a little Moroccan flair, don't you think?


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Snack Mustapha in Merzouga - where every dish tells a story.
After breakfast, we ventured out to Ali & Sara's Desert Palace. What an oasis! The place is beautifully set among the dunes, offering a tranquil escape from the desert's harshness. The staff welcomed us with open arms, and the camp itself was a sight to behold – traditional Berber tents, comfortable beds, and all the amenities you could ask for in the middle of the Sahara.


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

The desert is a vast and silent place, but it speaks to the soul in ways that words cannot express.

We spent the morning exploring the grounds, taking in the breathtaking views, and soaking up the Berber spirit. I even managed to snag a ride on Romeo, one of their famous camels. What a character! He was a bit stubborn at first, but we eventually bonded over a shared love for the desert sun. The camp is built in a traditional way, which made the experience feel authentic. The staff is super friendly and professional, and the tents are spacious with their own bathrooms.

Lunch was at Cafe Restaurant Zahra, and it was another culinary adventure. I decided to try their Zahra Club Sandwich, and it was fantastic. The flavors were fresh, the ingredients were top-notch, and the presentation was impeccable. The cafe itself had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were attentive and friendly. It reminded me of some of the cafes I used to frequent in Kingston – laid-back, welcoming, and full of life. I overheard some other travelers raving about the cakes. The pistachio/raspberry and carrot cakes are favorites, tasting homemade and fresh.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Restaurant Zahra in Merzouga—where every meal tells a story amidst breathtaking desert views.
As the afternoon wore on, we found ourselves at Cafe_Snack_Restaurant_ Hamid for dinner. This place was a real gem! My hotel recommended it, and it was excellent. I ordered a traditional Tajine, and it was absolutely delicious. The spices were perfect, the portion was generous, and the meal even came with orange and cinnamon at the end. I was too full to eat it, but it was a nice touch. What really stood out was the owner's kindness. He made us feel like family, sharing stories about life in the area and ensuring we had a fantastic experience. The meals are freshly prepared, piping hot, perfectly seasoned, and the prices are very reasonable.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Snack Restaurant Hamid in Merzouga – where every dish tells a story.
To cap off the day, we headed to Bar TABAA for a nightcap. The atmosphere was lively, the music was infectious, and the drinks were strong. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring the desert. I even tried my hand at some local dance moves, much to the amusement of my friends. Let's just say I won't be quitting my day job anytime soon. But hey, when in Merzouga, right?


Experience the lively spirit of Merzouga at Bar TABAA, where travelers unite over local drinks and stories in a vibrant atmosphere.
Today was a reminder of why I love to travel. It's not just about seeing new places, it's about experiencing new cultures, meeting new people, and trying new things. Merzouga has given me all of that and more. As I sit here now, under a blanket of stars, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey. The Sahara has a way of putting things into perspective, reminding you of what's truly important in life. And right now, that's good friends, good food, and the beauty of the present moment.

Tomorrow, we're planning to rev things up with a Sahara ATV Quad experience. I'm not usually one for adrenaline-pumping activities, but I'm determined to step outside my comfort zone and embrace the thrill of the desert. We'll also be visiting Tiziri Camp - Luxury ECO Desert Camp Merzouga, which I'm excited about. A little luxury in the desert never hurt anyone, right? And of course, we'll be indulging in more local cuisine at Cafe Snack Restaurant Said for breakfast, Restaurant Ocean des Dunes for lunch, and L'Homme du Désert for dinner. I'm already drooling at the thought of another delicious tagine. We will also visit Dépôt Nomade to maybe buy some souvenirs.

Until then, I'm going to savor these last few moments under the stars. Who knows what tomorrow will bring? But whatever it is, I'm ready for it. Merzouga, you've stolen a piece of my heart. And I can't wait to see what adventures await us tomorrow.