Overview & Highlights:
- Visit the magnificent irrigation system in Hassi labied village.
- Speed through the golden Erg-chebbi dunes.
- Stop for tea with a nomadic family in their authentic tent.
- Hunt for fossils of aquatic critters in the desert.
- Visit Khamlia village and enjoy the Gnawa music.
- See the incredible lake with flamingos in the desert.
Itinerary:
Sahara desert day tour is one of the most remarkable excursions you can do during your stay in Merzouga. In the morning we will meet you in your hotel at 10H Am and embark on an SUV for an adventure through the Sahara. Our excursion starts with a visit to Hassi labied village and its lush oasis, with palm trees, almonds and olives, which is being watered by an incredible irrigation system for ages and learn about this well-organized system.
Then we will speed through the golden Erg-chebbi dunes, enjoying the panoramic views and taking beautiful pictures. In the middle of Sahara we will make stop for tea with a nomadic family in a tent, their winter home, and see the nomads herd sheep and goats. After quiet stay with nomads, we will drive and hunt for fossils of aquatic critters in the desert. Because the Sahara was once an ocean 7 million years ago, and there are countless fossils remaining. Next we will visit the Khamlia village, lived by a dark skin people coming from the South African countries from the time their ancestors were brought to the area as slaves. Stop in Dar Gnawa and listen to their entrancing music. The rhythmic, hypnotic music has long been part of their ceremonies, and has influenced an entire genre that is performed all across Morocco and has even inspired several music festivals.
In the afternoon, join a local family for lunch at their home. Then head out of the village to see the incredible lake in the middle of the desert, which is home for many immigrating birds at the rainy season such as pink flamingos, before driving back to your hotel where our wonderful journey unfortunately ends.