Desert Adventures in the Merzouga Region

First Impressions: Merzouga, Here I Come!

After months of planning, dreaming, and packing (and yes, forgetting a couple of essentials!), I finally touched down in Morocco. The Merzouga Region, here I come! The journey from Berlin was long, but the excitement kept me buzzing. This 10-day escape with my closest friends promises a deep dive into the Sahara, a world away from the familiar rhythms of Yaad Vibes and Berlin's chilly December air. I can already feel this trip will be one for the books.

The initial leg of the journey went smoothly, with a comfortable flight from Berlin to Marrakech. The real adventure began as we piled into our rented ride, ready to eat up the miles to Merzouga. The landscape transformed from the bustling city to the serene countryside, offering glimpses of traditional Moroccan life. The air grew crisper, carrying the scent of distant spices and earth. I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation, a feeling that this was the start of something truly special.

Our first stop was Merzouga, the gateway to the Sahara. After checking in with Sahara Trips Company, we grabbed breakfast at Cafe Restaurant Merzouga. The mint tea was a welcome treat, and the traditional Moroccan pastries gave us a taste of what was to come. Energized, we dived headfirst into the local culture, making our way to Merzouga Nomadic Art Crafts.


Discover the breathtaking Sahara Desert with Sahara Trips Company, offering unique tours and cultural experiences in Hassilabied, Morocco.

The colors, textures, and stories woven into each piece were captivating. I found myself drawn to a hand-woven Berber carpet, its intricate patterns whispering tales of the desert. These carpets are traditionally handwoven by Berber women using wool from local sheep. Each rug tells a story, with intricate patterns and vibrant colors that reflect the heritage and traditions of the nomadic tribes. It was a feast for the senses, and I couldn't resist picking up a few small souvenirs to remind me of this magical place. Klara would absolutely love one of these, I thought, picturing our cozy Berlin apartment with a touch of the Sahara.

The desert is a vast and ancient place, but it's the warmth and resilience of its people that truly leave a mark on your soul.

Lunchtime found us at Cafe Restaurant Chez Youssef, where we savored authentic Berber cuisine. Tagine, flavorful and aromatic, was the star of the show, accompanied by couscous and fresh salads. The spices danced on my tongue, a symphony of flavors that transported me deeper into Moroccan culture. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes back at Yaad Vibes, bringing a taste of the Sahara to Berlin.

Next on the agenda was an adventure with Merzouga 4x4. We met our guide, a local Berber, who shared stories of the desert and its people as we traversed the sandy terrain. The sun began its descent, casting long shadows across the dunes. The sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant hues, painting a breathtaking masterpiece that stretched as far as the eye could see. It was a moment of pure magic, a memory I knew I would cherish forever. It's December, so the temperatures were perfect, hovering near 20°C during the day and cooling down to around 7°C at night.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Sahara Desert with Merzouga 4x4, where adventure meets culture in an unforgettable desert experience.

As the day drew to a close, we settled in for dinner at Cafe Restaurant Zahra. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, filled with the sounds of laughter and music. We shared stories of our adventures, savoring the last moments of our first day in Merzouga. The food was delicious, but it was the sense of camaraderie that truly made the evening special.

The plan for tomorrow is to explore Erg Chebbi and Lala Lallia Gran Dune. But for now, I'm content to bask in the memories of today, grateful for the opportunity to experience this incredible place with my friends. The Sahara has already cast its spell on me, and I can't wait to see what adventures tomorrow will bring.

The image of Naomi's face popped into my head, and I smiled, thankful for the little family I have back in Berlin. I'm already looking forward to sharing all these stories with them when I get back. But for now, the desert calls, and I must answer. Tomorrow, Erg Chebbi awaits, and I have a feeling it will be nothing short of extraordinary. It’s time to embrace the quiet solitude of the desert night, a stark contrast to the lively kitchen back home, but equally fulfilling in its own unique way. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings, especially the planned visit to Kasbah Merzouga Bar!