Exploring the Mystical Merzouga: A Journey into the Sahara

Rhythms of the Sahara

Today was a symphony of sand and sound, a day where the golden dunes of Merzouga sang a song of ancient Berber traditions. The desert has a way of whispering secrets to those who listen, and today, Jan and I were all ears. From the gentle sway of a camel ride to the captivating rhythms of Berber drums under a starlit sky, Merzouga has woven its spell on us.

Our day began, as most days should, with a hearty breakfast at Snack chez Toufik. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the sweet scent of Moroccan pastries, setting the stage for our desert adventure. Jan, ever the history buff, was already engrossed in a book about the Berber people, while I scribbled in my notebook, trying to capture the essence of the morning light. The kindness of the staff was memorable, they were happy to teach me some phrases in Darija/Toureg.


Experience delicious Moroccan cuisine at Snack chez Toufik, where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality in the heart of Merzouga.

Fueled and eager, we set off to meet our guides from Morocco Bedouin Tours. The plan was simple: immerse ourselves in the desert landscape and learn about the nomadic culture that has thrived here for centuries. As we bumped along in the back of the 4x4, I couldn't help but feel a world away from my quiet life in Warsaw. Though I love my work at the library, surrounded by books and the comforting scent of old paper, there's a part of me that craves these moments of raw, untamed beauty. It’s a feeling Jan understands well, perhaps stemming from his own years of teaching history and yearning to experience it firsthand.


Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Merzouga, a desert gem in Morocco perfect for hiking and adventure.

Our first stop was the majestic Merzouga Dunes. Towering dunes of sand stretched as far as the eye could see, an ocean of gold frozen in time. We clambered out of the jeep, the fine sand seeping into our boots, and began our ascent. The higher we climbed, the more breathtaking the view became. The wind whipped around us, carrying whispers of ancient stories and forgotten legends. Jan, with his trusty camera, was in his element, capturing the play of light and shadow on the undulating landscape. I, on the other hand, simply stood in awe, letting the vastness of the desert fill my soul.


Discover the breathtaking Merzouga Dunes, a stunning desert landscape in Morocco perfect for adventure seekers and cultural experiences.

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

After working up quite an appetite conquering the dunes, we headed to Snack le cedre for lunch. We devoured plates of fragrant tagine and grilled meats, savoring the explosion of flavors that danced on our tongues. The simple, rustic setting only added to the charm, as we shared stories and laughter with our fellow travelers. It was a moment of genuine connection, a reminder that no matter where we come from, we all share a common love for good food and good company.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Snack le Cedre in Merzouga – where every dish tells a story!

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we embarked on the quintessential Merzouga experience: a camel trek into the heart of the Sahara. As we mounted our gentle giants, I couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement mixed with a touch of trepidation. I hadn't ridden a camel since I was a child, visiting a travelling circus in Westport. The swaying motion took a bit of getting used to, but soon we were gliding across the sand like seasoned nomads. Jan, despite his initial reservations, was grinning from ear to ear, thoroughly enjoying the novelty of it all.

As the sun began its descent, painting the sky in hues of orange, pink, and purple, we reached our destination: a traditional Berber camp nestled among the dunes. The tents were simple yet comfortable, adorned with colorful rugs and cushions. We sipped sweet mint tea, the traditional drink of hospitality, as our hosts prepared a feast of local delicacies. The air was filled with the tantalizing aromas of grilling meat and simmering spices, a symphony of scents that awakened the senses.

As darkness enveloped the desert, the real magic began. A group of Berber musicians gathered around a crackling campfire, their faces illuminated by the flickering flames. They began to play traditional instruments – drums, flutes, and stringed instruments – their music weaving a tapestry of rhythm and melody. The music started slow and built up into lively beats that encouraged clapping, dancing, and smiling under the stars. It was more than just entertainment; it was a cultural connection passed down through generations. The Berber drumming is a traditional form of musical expression used by the Amazigh (Berber) people. Each beat tells a story of love, nature, struggle and celebration. I found myself clapping along, my initial shyness melting away as I lost myself in the music. Jan, always the charmer, even managed to coax a few dance steps out of me, much to the amusement of our fellow travelers.

Later in the evening, after a satisfying dinner at Restaurant Cafe SaharaTime, Jan and I walked a short distance from the camp to simply lay down on a high dune and look at the stars. The sky was a canvas of infinite blackness, dotted with millions of twinkling stars. It was a sight that humbled and inspired, a reminder of our place in the vast universe. We talked for hours, sharing our dreams and fears, our hopes and aspirations. In that moment, surrounded by the silence of the desert and the immensity of the cosmos, I felt a profound sense of peace and connection with Jan.


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

Before heading to our tent for the night, we stopped by the Riad Tighmart Merzouga. We enjoyed refreshing drinks while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding dunes. The Riad was a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the desert night.


Experience serene desert vibes at Riad Tighmart Merzouga, your ultimate oasis in the heart of the Sahara.

Tomorrow, we plan to continue our desert exploration with Sahara Safari adventure, and a visit to Sahara Desert Morocco. I’m also hoping we’ll have an opportunity to visit the Herbier kounouz sahara shop. But for tonight, I’ll drift off to sleep with the rhythm of Berber drums echoing in my ears and the starlit sky etched in my memory. Merzouga, you have stolen a piece of my heart.

It's moments like these, far from the familiar comforts of home, that truly make me feel alive. And as I drift off to sleep beneath the vast, starlit sky, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible journey with Jan, my partner in life and adventure.