Desert Adventures in the Merzouga Region

Whispers of the Sahara

The desert has a way of humbling you, of making you feel both insignificant and incredibly connected to something ancient and vast. Today in Merzouga, I felt that connection deeply. It's a feeling I want to share with you, my friends, as I continue this Moroccan adventure. Today was all about immersing ourselves in the raw beauty and rich history of this landscape.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Café Restaurant Les Amis. I opted for a traditional Berber omelette, baked with tomatoes, onions, eggs, and Moroccan spices. It was the perfect fuel for a day of exploration. The temperature in Merzouga in December typically ranges from 46°F to 62°F, so I made sure to dress warmly in layers. The sun was already beginning its ascent, promising another day of clear skies.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café Restaurant Les Amis in Merzouga—where delightful flavors meet warm hospitality.

With bellies full and spirits high, my friends and I ventured into the heart of the Merzouga desert. The vast expanse of sand dunes stretching as far as the eye could see was a sight to behold. The Erg Chebbi dunes are truly majestic, and I could understand why so many people dream of experiencing this landscape.

Our first stop was a visit to Fossiles Mineraux Merzouga, a local shop brimming with ancient treasures. Now, I'm no Indiana Jones, but I've always had a fascination with history, and the idea of holding a piece of the past in my hands was irresistible. The shop owner, a friendly Berber man with eyes that held the wisdom of the desert, showed us a stunning array of fossils, each with its own story to tell. Apparently, the area is home to close to 500 varieties of fossils.


Discover the captivating world of fossils at Fossiles Mineraux Merzouga, where ancient history meets modern shopping.

The desert holds secrets whispered on the wind, stories etched in stone, and adventures waiting to unfold.

I learned that millions of years ago, this area was under the sea, teeming with marine life. It was mind-blowing to imagine these now-arid dunes as the bottom of an ancient ocean. I even picked up a small trilobite fossil as a souvenir – a tangible reminder of the deep history beneath our feet. I remember Naomi would have been so thrilled to see such a fossil. I really should bring her and Klara on such adventure next time around.

After our fossil-finding adventure, we were ready for lunch. We headed over to Restaurant Cafe SaharaTime, a charming spot known for its authentic Berber cuisine. The restaurant is located in the village of Hassi Labied, near Merzouga. I decided to try a tagine, a traditional Moroccan stew cooked in a clay pot. The flavors were incredible – a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with tender meat and fragrant spices. My friends opted for other Moroccan delicacies, and we shared stories and laughter over our meal.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Cafe SaharaTime - a culinary oasis nestled in Hassilabied's breathtaking desert landscape.

With our appetites satisfied, it was time for the main event: the Merzouga desert experience. We met our guides, a group of local Berber men who knew the desert like the back of their hands. They led us on a camel trek into the heart of the Sahara. The rhythmic sway of the camels, the soft sand beneath their feet, and the vastness of the landscape created a sense of peace and tranquility that's hard to describe. Riding a camel across the Erg Chebbi dunes is a magical experience.


Explore the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes and rich Berber culture at Merzouga Desert Experience, a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple, we arrived at our destination: the Bivouac Merzouga Experience. A bivouac, I learned, is a traditional Berber campsite, and ours was set up with comfortable tents, cozy rugs, and a crackling campfire. The Bivouac Merzouga offers a blend of adventure and cultural immersion.


Experience the magic of the Sahara Desert at Bivouac Merzouga, a family-friendly camp with adventure and cultural immersion for all ages.

After settling in, we gathered around the fire for dinner. Our Berber hosts prepared a feast of traditional dishes, including couscous, grilled meats, and fresh salads. As we ate, they played traditional Berber music on drums and sang ancient songs. The atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter, storytelling, and a sense of camaraderie.

As the night deepened, the stars emerged, blanketing the sky in a dazzling display of celestial beauty. Far away from the city lights, the Milky Way stretched across the heavens like a river of diamonds. I lay back on the sand, gazing up at the stars, feeling a sense of awe and wonder that I hadn't felt in a long time. It was a moment of pure magic, a reminder of the beauty and vastness of the universe.

Before drifting off to sleep, we made one last stop at Kasr Diafa Restaurant & Snack & Cafe for a late-night snack. This place offers a serene atmosphere where guests can enjoy delectable cuisine and refreshing beverages. I had heard their pizzas were amazing, and they did not disappoint!


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Kasr Diafa Restaurant & Snack & Cafe in Merzouga—where tradition meets flavor.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore more of the Sahara Desert, visiting the Merzouga Dunes and soaking in the stunning landscapes. We'll be having breakfast at Snack chez Toufik, lunch at Restaurant Jordi & Naima, and dinner at Cafe Restaurant Rimal Merzouga. And if we have time, we might even check out Riad Tighmart Merzouga, a local bar.

Today was a day of discovery, a day of connecting with the past and embracing the present. As I drift off to sleep under the stars, I'm filled with gratitude for this incredible experience. The Sahara has a way of getting under your skin, of leaving an indelible mark on your soul. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Before I close, I wanted to mention that I really should have packed my sunglasses and portable charger. I was kicking myself for forgetting them!

Until tomorrow, friends. Keep exploring, keep discovering, and keep embracing the magic of the world around you.

Irie,
Robert

For those interested in experiencing the magic of Merzouga, keep an eye out for local events. While I didn't attend any specific festivals today, Morocco hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals and traditional celebrations. December is also a great time to visit the Marrakech International Film Festival.

As always, remember to respect local customs and traditions, dress modestly, and be mindful of the environment. The desert is a fragile ecosystem, and it's important to leave no trace behind. I encourage you to explore the region and learn about its history and culture. You won't regret it!

And if you're looking for a unique souvenir, consider purchasing a fossil from a local shop. You'll be supporting the local economy and taking home a piece of history with you. Just be sure to do your research and make sure you're buying from a reputable source.

Finally, don't forget to try the mint tea! It's the specialty of the house in Morocco, and it's the perfect way to relax and soak in the atmosphere.

Until next time, stay tuned for more adventures from the Sahara!

Irie,
Robert