Desert Adventures in the Merzouga Region

Day 8: Lost in the Sands, Found in the Stars: A Day of Luxury and Wonder in Merzouga

Experience a day of desert luxury in Merzouga. From stunning camps to starry skies, discover the magic of the Sahara with friends.

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Desert Dreams Come True


Today was one of those days where I felt like I was living in a movie. The kind where the scenery is so breathtaking, and the experiences so surreal, that you can't help but pinch yourself to make sure you're not dreaming. The Merzouga region continued to deliver, wrapping us in its warm, sandy embrace and showing us a side of the Sahara that I'll never forget.

We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Riad Merzouga. The spread was impressive, a delightful mix of Moroccan staples and continental favorites. I piled my plate high with fresh bread, croissants, and some local pastries I couldn't pronounce but devoured with gusto. With a belly full of goodness and the sun shining bright, we were ready to tackle the day ahead. It reminded me of Sunday mornings back in Linstead, with the smell of Mama's cooking filling the air, setting the tone for a day of joy and togetherness. Klara would have loved this breakfast; she always appreciates a good pastry.

Discover Riad Merzouga: A Culinary Journey Through Authentic Moroccan Flavors in the Heart of Merzouga.
Discover Riad Merzouga: A Culinary Journey Through Authentic Moroccan Flavors in the Heart of Merzouga.

Our main destination for the day was the Desert Luxury Camp. I had heard whispers about these camps, promising an experience that blends the raw beauty of the desert with a touch of indulgence. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint. As we approached, the camp emerged from the dunes like a mirage. Luxurious tents were arranged with thoughtful spacing, creating a sense of privacy and tranquility. The staff greeted us with warm smiles and refreshing mint tea, a gesture that immediately made us feel welcome.

Discover the magic of the Sahara at Desert Luxury Camp in Merzouga - a perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and Moroccan hospitality.
Discover the magic of the Sahara at Desert Luxury Camp in Merzouga - a perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and Moroccan hospitality.

The tents themselves were incredible. Spacious and beautifully decorated, they featured comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and even little seating areas to relax and take in the view. It was glamping at its finest, a far cry from the basic camping I was expecting. I chuckled, thinking about some of my earlier, less glamorous camping adventures. This was a whole different ball game.

We spent the afternoon exploring the camp and its surroundings. Some of my friends decided to try sandboarding, while I opted for a leisurely stroll through the dunes. The silence was profound, broken only by the gentle whisper of the wind. I climbed to the top of one of the taller dunes and just sat there, soaking it all in. The view was mesmerizing. Endless waves of sand stretching as far as the eye could see, bathed in the warm afternoon light. It was a moment of pure serenity, a chance to disconnect from the world and reconnect with myself.

The desert is a place where time seems to stand still, allowing you to reflect, reconnect, and rediscover the simple joys of life.


For lunch, we headed to Cafe Restaurant Tenere, a charming spot that offered a welcome respite from the desert sun. The menu was filled with traditional Moroccan dishes, and I decided to try the tagine, a slow-cooked stew with meat and vegetables. It was flavorful and satisfying, the perfect fuel for our afternoon adventures. The friends enjoyed some salads.

Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café Restaurant Tenere in Merzouga – where tradition meets hospitality in a stunning desert setting.
Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café Restaurant Tenere in Merzouga – where tradition meets hospitality in a stunning desert setting.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we made our way to Planet Sahara. This wasn't just another stop on our itinerary; it was an immersion into the heart of the Sahara. The landscape was surreal, with towering dunes painting a breathtaking backdrop. We explored the area, taking photos and simply marveling at the sheer scale of the desert. The golden light cast long shadows, creating a magical atmosphere that felt straight out of a movie.

Experience the magic of the Sahara Desert at Planet Sahara, a serene hotel in Merzouga offering comfort, adventure, and cultural immersion.
Experience the magic of the Sahara Desert at Planet Sahara, a serene hotel in Merzouga offering comfort, adventure, and cultural immersion.

Back at the Desert Luxury Camp, as dusk settled, the camp transformed into a magical oasis. Lanterns flickered, casting a warm glow on the tents and creating a cozy ambiance. We gathered around a crackling bonfire, sipping on mint tea and listening to traditional Berber music. The stars began to emerge, one by one, until the sky was ablaze with their brilliance.

I've always been fascinated by astronomy, ever since I was a boy back in Jamaica, lying on the beach and gazing up at the night sky. But the stars in the Sahara were something else entirely. Untainted by light pollution, they shone with an intensity I had never witnessed before. It felt like I could reach out and touch them. I even spotted a few constellations I recognized from my old astronomy books.

Dinner at Restaurant & Cafe Zaid Merzouga was another culinary delight. We feasted on a variety of Moroccan dishes, each one bursting with flavor and spices. The atmosphere was lively and festive, with music and laughter filling the air.

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

After dinner, some of us decided to check out Merzouga sky camp, a local bar known for its laid-back vibe and stunning views. We sipped on local drinks, chatted with fellow travelers, and soaked in the desert night. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.

Discover the enchanting Merzouga Sky Camp, where adventure meets comfort in the heart of the Sahara Desert for the entire family.
Discover the enchanting Merzouga Sky Camp, where adventure meets comfort in the heart of the Sahara Desert for the entire family.

As I lay in my luxurious tent, drifting off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences I had today. The Merzouga region had exceeded all my expectations, offering a blend of adventure, luxury, and cultural immersion that was truly unforgettable. I thought about Naomi and Klara, wishing they could have been here to share this with me. I made a mental note to bring them back someday.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore more of the desert with Camel Trekking Morocco Tours and Visit Merzouga Desert. I can't wait to see what adventures await us. Until then, I'll be dreaming of sand dunes and starry skies.
Go to day 7 Quad Biking and Desert Nights: An Unforgettable Day in Merzouga
Go to day 9 Sahara's Embrace: Camels, Fossils, and Feasting in Merzouga
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Desert Adventures in the Merzouga Region

Join Robert on a 10-day journey exploring Morocco's Merzouga Region, experiencing the Sahara Desert's beauty and Berber culture with friends.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Robert Lewis
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Chef and Owner of a Jamaican Restaurant
  • Country icon Country: Germany
  • Age icon Age: 38

Ahoy, fellow travelers! I'm Robert Lewis, a Jamaican chef living in Berlin, and the voice behind this travel blog. After years of sizzling in the kitchen at my restaurant, 'Yaad Vibes,' I decided to spice things up by sharing my adventures with the world. Join me, my lovely wife Klara, and our energetic daughter Naomi as we explore hidden gems, savor exotic flavors, and dive headfirst into different cultures. From the bustling streets of Kingston to the serene landscapes of the Alps, I'll bring you along on a journey filled with laughter, delicious discoveries, and a whole heap of Yaad Vibes!

Interests:
  • Reggae music
  • Caribbean history
  • Sustainable living
  • Formula 1 racing
  • Astronomy
More about Robert Lewis

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    Discover the magic of the Sahara at Desert Luxury Camp in Merzouga - a perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and Moroccan hospitality.

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