April 15: Erg Chebbi Dunes in Merzouga

After breakfast, we drove through the Rose Valley (unfortunately, we were a few weeks early to see the flowers in full bloom). We then headed to Boulma Dades to reach Tinghir with its beautiful palm groves. We continued to the Gorge of Todra, the highest and most impressive gorges  in Morocco, where we  trekked in the canyon looking up to the peaks approximately 300 meters high.  One could easily see that this region would be a preferred spot for mountain climbers. 

Our final destination and highlight of day two was  Erg Chebbi Dunes in Merzouga Sahara Desert. Once we arrived, we went on a spectacular sunset camel ride with several stops to frolic in the soft burnt orange colored sand. As you might imagine, the sunset was absolutely amazing with the ever-changing color of Erg Chebbi Dunes, azure sky, and golden sun. This magical land of the Sahara desert of Merzouga Erg Chebbi is full of wonderful surprises.

After a delicious dinner filled with laughter, we headed out for a campfire, music and dancing.  Alex, Haein and I took our turn as musicians as we played the drums until our hands hurt.  I can’t speak for the whole group but I, for one, was humbled by the grandeur and expanse of the largest hot desert in the world.