Exploring the Mystical Merzouga: A Journey into the Sahara

A Day of Desert Magic

Today was nothing short of magical. From the moment the sun peeked over the horizon, painting the dunes in hues of gold and amber, to the final notes of Berber music under a canopy of stars, Merzouga revealed its captivating soul. It was a day filled with exploration, cultural immersion, and flavors that danced on my palate.

Our day began at the Cafe Restaurant Itran, where we enjoyed a traditional Moroccan breakfast. The cozy atmosphere and the view of the awakening desert made the experience even more special. I savored a flavorful tagine, while Jan opted for a hearty omelette, both washed down with strong, sweet Moroccan coffee. It was the perfect fuel for the day's adventures.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café Restaurant Itran in Merzouga, where every meal is a journey into local culture and flavor.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set out to fully embrace the Merzouga desert experience. We spent hours wandering amidst the towering Erg Chebbi dunes, their golden surfaces rippling in the breeze. The sheer scale of the Sahara is humbling, making me feel both insignificant and deeply connected to something ancient and powerful. Jan, with his love for history, was particularly moved by the timelessness of the landscape. He remarked how little this vista would have changed over centuries, a sentiment that resonated deeply with me.


Explore the stunning dunes of Merzouga Desert, a paradise for adventurers and culture enthusiasts in Morocco's breathtaking landscape.

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

For lunch, we found ourselves at Cafe Snack Restaurant Said, a local gem recommended by several fellow travelers. The friendly staff and the aroma of spices immediately made us feel at home. I decided to try the Moroccan tacos, while Jan chose a flavorful salad. The food was simple, yet incredibly satisfying, a testament to the fresh, local ingredients. It was a delightful experience, and the affordable prices were an added bonus.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café Snack Restaurant Said in Merzouga – where flavor meets tradition amidst stunning desert landscapes.

In the late afternoon, seeking a taste of local culture, we ventured into the village to experience the rhythms of Berber music. We found ourselves drawn to Cafe_Snack_Restaurant_ Hamid, a lively spot where locals and tourists mingled. The café was bustling with activity, and the air was filled with the sounds of laughter and music. I ordered a refreshing mint tea, while Jan opted for a strong coffee. As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the dunes, the musicians began to play. The hypnotic rhythms of the drums and the soulful melodies of the stringed instruments transported us to another world. It was an immersive experience, one that touched our hearts and souls.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine and warm hospitality at Café Snack Restaurant Hamid in Merzouga, a must-visit for travelers.

The music reminded me of the traditional Irish music sessions back in Westport, County Mayo, where I grew up. There's something universal about the way music can bring people together, transcending language and cultural barriers. Jan, with his Polish heritage, also felt a deep connection to the music, recognizing echoes of folk traditions from his homeland. It was a beautiful moment of shared humanity, a reminder of the threads that connect us all.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to L'Homme du Désert for dinner. The restaurant exuded a warm and inviting ambiance, and the staff greeted us with genuine hospitality. We savored a delicious Moroccan dinner, featuring a medley of tagines and couscous dishes. The flavors were rich and complex, a testament to the culinary traditions of the region. The setting was magical, and the food was simply divine.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine and hospitality at L'Homme du Désert, your oasis in Merzouga's enchanting landscape.

Tomorrow, we are planning to explore more of the desert. We intend to visit Bivouac Merzouga Experience and explore the area in a 4x4. Of course, we will need to fuel up with breakfast at Cafe Restaurant Touga and lunch at Café Restaurant Les Amis. I am also hoping to pick up a souvenir or two at DRISS FOSSILS AND MINERLAS SHOP.

Back at our Berber tent, under the vast expanse of the starlit desert sky, Jan and I reflected on the day's adventures. We felt a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences we had shared, the people we had met, and the beauty that surrounded us. Merzouga had cast its spell on us, and we knew that this journey would forever hold a special place in our hearts. I am so glad we decided to be adventurous and leave our comfort zone in Warsaw for this trip. I am excited for what tomorrow will bring!

We also realized that we had forgotten to pack extra batteries for the camera, which was a bit of a nuisance. I will need to remember this for future travels.