Exploring the Mystical Merzouga: A Journey into the Sahara

Whispers of the Sahara

Today was a day of deep immersion into the heart of the Sahara. It was more than just seeing the landscape; it was about feeling the pulse of the desert, tasting its flavors, and connecting with its people. Jan and I embraced every moment, from the thrill of the safari to the quiet contemplation of Berber traditions.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Snack Mustapha. The tagine was rich and flavorful, setting the perfect tone for our desert adventure. Fuelling up with a traditional Moroccan breakfast was just what we needed before venturing into the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert Morocco.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of the Sahara Desert in Morocco, where adventure meets tranquility in a majestic landscape.

The warm welcome and the delicious food made us feel right at home.

After breakfast, we met our guide, and our Sahara Safari adventure began. The landscape was surreal, with towering dunes stretching as far as the eye could see. The September sun was warm, but not unbearable, and a gentle breeze kept us comfortable as we traversed the sandy terrain. I made sure I had my wide-brimmed hat and plenty of sunscreen, essentials I was glad I remembered to pack. Jan, ever the historian, was fascinated by the geological formations, pointing out different layers of sand and explaining how the wind shapes these colossal structures.

The desert is a book, and each grain of sand tells a story.

Our guide shared stories of the Sahara, its history, and the Berber people who have called it home for centuries. He spoke of their resilience, their deep connection to the land, and their unique way of life. It was fascinating to learn about the challenges they face and how they have adapted to survive in this harsh environment.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurant Jordi & Naima. The restaurant offered a delightful array of Moroccan dishes, from aromatic tagines to succulent grilled meats. We opted for the tagine, savoring every bite as we enjoyed the stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. The warm hospitality of the staff added to the charm, making it a truly memorable dining experience. Jan enjoyed speaking with the staff about the history of the restaurant and the local area, always eager to learn more about the places we visit.

After lunch, we visited Herbier Kounouz Sahara. The shop was a treasure trove of natural remedies, spices, and traditional Berber crafts. I was particularly interested in the herbal remedies, given my interest in sustainable living and natural health. We learned about the various plants that grow in the desert and their medicinal properties. I purchased a few small bottles of argan oil and some locally sourced spices, looking forward to incorporating them into my cooking back in Warsaw.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we found ourselves at CAFE RESTAURANT TENERE. We sipped on traditional mint tea, the sweet, fragrant liquid a perfect complement to the stunning sunset unfolding before us. The sky was awash with vibrant colors, from fiery oranges and reds to soft pinks and purples. It was a moment of pure magic, a scene that will forever be etched in my memory. Sipping mint tea as the sun set over the Sahara was an experience I will cherish forever.

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our experiences. The Sahara is more than just a desert; it's a living, breathing entity with a rich history and a vibrant culture. The Berber people, with their warmth and resilience, have carved out a life in this challenging landscape, and their traditions and stories are a testament to the human spirit.

Tomorrow, we are planning to delve deeper into the Merzouga desert experience and explore the area around Merzouga. I am particularly excited about the possibility of visiting a local Berber family and learning more about their nomadic way of life. Jan is eager to explore the geological formations and learn more about the desert ecosystem. We might even stop by Cafe_Snack_Restaurant_ Hamid for a refreshing drink.

Even though September marks the end of the high season, the Sahara still offers intense sunshine. We're trying to make the most of the cooler temperatures by planning our excursions for early morning and late afternoon. I am also mindful of the possibility of rain, as September is statistically the wettest month in the Moroccan Sahara.

The Sahara has a way of getting under your skin, of captivating your senses and stirring your soul. It's a place of stark beauty, of endless horizons, and of profound silence. It's a place where you can connect with nature, with history, and with yourself.

As I sit here now, writing by the soft glow of our tent’s lantern, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences of today. I am grateful for the opportunity to explore this extraordinary landscape, to learn about its people, and to share these moments with Jan. The Sahara has left an indelible mark on my heart, and I know that I will carry its whispers with me long after we leave. This journey is not just about seeing new places; it's about opening our hearts and minds to new perspectives, new cultures, and new ways of being. And that, I believe, is the true essence of travel.

The stars tonight seem brighter, the silence deeper, and the connection to the earth more profound. As we prepare for another day of exploration, I am filled with anticipation for what tomorrow may bring. The Sahara is a vast and mysterious place, and I know that there are countless more stories waiting to be discovered. And I, for one, am eager to hear them all.