Exploring the Mystical Merzouga: A Journey into the Sahara

Whispers of the Sahara

As Jan and I settled into our first evening in the Merzouga Region, the immensity of the Sahara began to sink in. It wasn't just the endless expanse of sand, but the profound quiet that enveloped us, a silence so complete it felt like the world was holding its breath. After a long journey from Warsaw, trading the familiar sounds of the city for the subtle rustling of the desert wind, I knew this trip would be unlike any other.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Café Restaurant Rimal Merzouga. The Moroccan sun streamed through the windows as we enjoyed traditional tagine, mint tea and coffee, preparing ourselves for the adventures that lay ahead. The café was bustling with locals and tourists alike, creating a vibrant atmosphere that was both welcoming and exciting. It was a fantastic way to immerse ourselves in the local culture right from the start. I even managed to practice a few phrases in Polish with a friendly Berber man who had worked in Poland for a few years – a small world indeed!


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Restaurant Rimal Merzouga—where culinary delights meet breathtaking desert views.

With our bellies full and spirits high, Jan and I set out to explore the legendary Sáhara Desert Merzouga. The sheer scale of the desert was awe-inspiring. As someone who has spent a lifetime surrounded by the green hills of Ireland and the forests of Poland, the landscape felt otherworldly. The rolling dunes stretched as far as the eye could see, an ocean of sand frozen in time. The September sun beat down, but a gentle breeze kept the heat manageable. We were glad we packed our lightweight clothing and wide-brimmed hats; I even remembered to bring a notebook to capture all my thoughts.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Merzouga Desert, where towering dunes meet rich Berber culture and unforgettable adventures await.

We decided to take a leisurely walk into the desert, wanting to feel the sand between our toes and truly connect with our surroundings. The sand was surprisingly cool beneath the surface, a welcome contrast to the warm air. As we walked deeper, the sounds of Merzouga faded behind us, replaced by the profound silence of the Sahara. It was a meditative experience, allowing me to clear my mind and simply be present in the moment. Jan, ever the historian, pointed out the subtle variations in the sand, explaining how the wind shapes and reshapes the dunes over time. I was grateful for his insights, which added another layer of appreciation to the already stunning landscape.

The desert is a vast, silent canvas where nature paints its masterpiece in shades of gold and ochre.

Our next stop was the majestic Lala Lallia Gran Dune. Known as the highest sacred point in the Berber language, this star dune is a sight to behold. As we stood at its base, gazing up at its towering peak, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. Recent studies have revealed that Lala Lallia is around 13,000 years old, with its upper layers forming in just the last 1,000 years. This discovery has provided scientists with valuable insights into the region's climate history. Jan was particularly fascinated by this, explaining how the dune's formation is linked to changes in wind patterns and rainfall over millennia.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lala Lallia Gran Dune in Morocco, where golden sands meet vibrant sunsets in the heart of the Sahara Desert.

The climb to the top was challenging but rewarding. With each step, the panoramic view expanded, revealing the immensity of the Erg Chebbi sand sea. From the summit, the world stretched out before us, an endless expanse of undulating dunes shimmering in the afternoon sun. It was a moment of pure serenity, a feeling of being completely immersed in the beauty of nature. I took a deep breath, savouring the clean, dry air and the breathtaking vista. I couldn't help but think of Aoife back in Warsaw; she would have loved this view, perhaps even more than the museums we usually visit.

As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we made our way back to Merzouga. We had lunch at Cafe Restaurant Merzouga, a charming spot that offered stunning views of the desert. I enjoyed a flavorful Berber tagine, while Jan opted for grilled meat. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. We chatted with a local Berber family who shared stories of their nomadic heritage, offering us a glimpse into their unique way of life. It was a humbling experience, reminding us of the importance of cultural exchange and understanding.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café Restaurant Merzouga amidst breathtaking desert landscapes.

In the late afternoon, we decided to visit Kasbah Merzouga Bar for a refreshing drink. The bar had a relaxed atmosphere, and we enjoyed mint tea while watching the sunset over the dunes. I made a mental note to buy a local SIM card tomorrow, as I had forgotten to pack a portable phone charger, and my phone was already running low on battery. It was a minor oversight, but one that highlighted the importance of being prepared when travelling in remote areas. The bar seemed like a popular spot, with both tourists and locals enjoying the end of the day.


Discover the charm of Kasbah Merzouga Bar, where Moroccan culture meets breathtaking desert views in the heart of Merzouga.

For dinner, we treated ourselves to a meal at Restaurant Berbere Palace Hotel Merzouga. The ambiance was elegant, and the food was exquisite. We savoured traditional Moroccan dishes, accompanied by local wine. The service was impeccable, and the staff were attentive and friendly. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Merzouga, a culinary journey that delighted our senses.


Experience authentic Halal Moroccan cuisine amidst the breathtaking beauty of Merzouga's Sahara Desert.

As the night drew in, we found ourselves drawn back to the mesmerizing Sáhara Desert Merzouga to stargaze. Away from the city lights, the night sky exploded with a million stars. The Milky Way stretched across the heavens, a shimmering river of light. We lay on the cool sand, wrapped in blankets, and lost ourselves in the vastness of the universe. It was a magical moment, one that reminded us of our place in the grand scheme of things. Jan, ever the romantic, recited Irish poems under the starlight, his voice echoing softly in the stillness of the desert. It was a perfect end to a perfect day.

Before drifting off to sleep, we discussed our plans for tomorrow. We're looking forward to exploring Erg Chebbi and experiencing the Merzouga desert experience. I am particularly excited about visiting the Merzouga Nomadic Art Crafts shop, where I hope to find some unique souvenirs to bring back home to Warsaw. As I closed my eyes, I felt a sense of gratitude for this incredible opportunity to explore the beauty and culture of the Merzouga Region. I also made a promise to myself to try and learn a few Berber phrases during the trip. After all, what better way to connect with the local community than through their language?

Tomorrow promises new adventures, and I can’t wait to share them with you all. But for tonight, I’ll drift off to sleep with the whispers of the Sahara in my ears and the stars as my blanket.