Exploring the Mystical Merzouga: A Journey into the Sahara

Desert Dreams Under the Moroccan Sun

Today was a day for the senses, a deep dive into the heart of the Sahara. The Merzouga desert experience has already begun to weave its spell, a blend of ochre landscapes, vibrant culture, and the humbling immensity of the Erg Chebbi dunes. Jan and I embraced every moment, from the first light of dawn to the starlit expanse of the desert night.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Restaurant Zahra. The strong coffee and the warmth of the morning sun prepared us for the adventures ahead. The café was charming, filled with locals and fellow travelers eager to explore the desert. It's amazing how a simple meal can set the tone for an entire day, and today, it promised excitement and wonder.

 Our first stop was Erg Chebbi itself. The sheer scale of the dunes is difficult to describe; they rise like colossal, golden waves, sculpted by the wind over millennia. The temperature in September is hot, with highs reaching 95°F (35°C), so we made sure to bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water. We decided to explore the area by camel, which Jan was particularly excited about. As we rode, the rhythmic sway of the camel and the endless horizon provided a sense of peace I rarely experience in Warsaw. The dunes seemed to whisper secrets of ancient caravans and nomadic tribes, stories etched in the very sand beneath us.

 The desert is a book, each grain of sand a word, each dune a chapter in a story that never ends.

After our camel trek, we enjoyed lunch at La Grotte Dunes Restaurant. The restaurant had a beautiful view and exquisite service, and we savored traditional Moroccan dishes. I opted for a tagine, rich with spices and tender meat, while Jan chose couscous, a staple of Moroccan cuisine. The flavors were a delightful dance on our palates, a testament to the region's culinary heritage. The experience was made even more special by the warm hospitality of the staff, who made us feel like honored guests in their desert home.
In the afternoon, we ventured into the heart of the Merzouga desert for a truly immersive experience. We visited Merzouga Nomadic Art Crafts, where we hoped to find some unique souvenirs. I was hoping to find a beautiful Berber carpet to bring a piece of Morocco back to our home in Warsaw. The intricate patterns and vibrant colors are a testament to the skill and artistry of the local artisans. We bartered for a beautiful, handwoven scarf, a memento of our time in the Sahara. I was so happy to support the local community and take home something truly special. I love to bring a little piece of the places we visit back home with us. It's a way to keep the memories alive and share our experiences with friends and family.
As the sun began its descent, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, we found ourselves at the Kasr Diafa Restaurant & Snack & Cafe for dinner. We enjoyed authentic Moroccan cuisine in a relaxed environment. The owner was incredibly hospitable, offering us generous servings of traditional mint tea. As we sipped the sweet, fragrant tea, we reflected on the day's adventures and savored the peacefulness of the desert evening.
The day culminated in a magical Merzouga desert experience. We found a spot away from any light pollution and simply gazed up at the stars. The night sky in the Sahara is unlike anything I've ever seen. The Milky Way stretched across the horizon, a river of light in the inky blackness. We lay there for hours, Jan and I, identifying constellations and making wishes on shooting stars. It was a moment of pure serenity, a reminder of the vastness of the universe and our place within it. I thought about Aoife back home and knew she would have loved to have been here with us, she has always been fascinated by astronomy. I made a mental note to buy her a telescope when we got back to Warsaw.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of the region with Mouhou Tours Company and Visit Merzouga Desert. I’m particularly interested in learning more about the local culture and traditions. We’ll have breakfast at Café Restaurant Chez Ibrahim, lunch at Cafe Restaurant Touga, and dinner at Restaurant Ocean des Dunes. I'm also hoping we can find some time to visit Bar TABAA for a nightcap.
As I write this, nestled in our Berber tent, I can still feel the warmth of the sun on my skin and the gentle sway of the camel in my bones. The Sahara has a way of getting under your skin, of stirring something deep within your soul. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, what new adventures await us in this mystical land. I feel so grateful to be here with Jan, sharing these incredible experiences together. It's moments like these that make our marriage so strong, exploring new cultures, embracing new adventures, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. I wonder what tomorrow will bring. Good night from the Sahara!