I have stayed twice now at Palmeras y Dunas when visiting the Erg Chebbi in Merzouga, Morocco. It is a short walk to the dunes of the Sahara, and the staff, guides and other folks you will meet there are amazingly friendly, with an easy, laid-back, yet attentive culture that ensures you can just relax, unwind and leave all your cares behind as you take in traditional Gnawa music around a bonfire, swim in the pool, eat excellent food (including the almost obligatory tagine, which they do incredibly well), and embark on unforgettable trips into the dunes, whether on foot or on camel, to watch breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. You can even camp in the desert with their guides, or you can opt for either a private room or a shared bivouac at the auberge itself.||||The first time I visited Palmeras y Dunas, I was made to feel completely at home. When I returned six months later, I felt like I was going home. While I had traveled with a group of international students the first time as a chaperone, I returned by myself the second time, yet they remembered me and treated me like an old friend. And, that's how I felt about them as well.||||The grounds, including the various courtyards, are well laid-out and appointed, and the private rooms have full bathrooms, air conditioners and other amenities that make it a pleasure to stay no matter where you're from. The architecture is similar to what you might find in New Mexico, USA, including the adobe structures, exposed wood beams and even thatch roofs. This is because both areas were heavily influenced by Spanish culture back in the day, but the atmosphere is distinctly different from New Mexico, which makes it a whole other experience.||||I can't wait to go back again someday soon. I especially look forward to visiting with my favorite guide there, a personable, funny and kind gentleman named Mobarak.||||I highly recommend Palmeras y Dunas not just as a stop along the way around Morocco, but even a destination in itself. I think you will be thrilled by the experience from...
Read moreI recently had the pleasure of staying at Palmeras y Dunas in Merzouga, and it was an unforgettable experience! From the moment I arrived, the staff was incredibly welcoming and friendly, making sure all my needs were met, a big thanks to Hasna for her hospitality she was so kind and helpful.The hotel is perfectly located near the Sahara Desert, offering breathtaking views of the dunes right from the terrace.
The rooms were spacious, clean, and beautifully decorated in a traditional Moroccan style, creating a cozy and authentic atmosphere. The beds were comfortable, and I appreciated the little touches like complimentary bottled water and warm blankets for the cooler desert nights.
One of the highlights of my stay was the desert excursion organized by the hotel. The camel trek into the dunes at sunset was absolutely magical, and the camp in the desert was comfortable and well-equipped. The staff prepared a delicious traditional Moroccan meal under the stars, and it truly felt like an experience of a lifetime.
The hotel also offers excellent Moroccan cuisine, and the breakfasts were plentiful with a variety of fresh options. The hospitality and attention to detail really made me feel at home.
Overall, I highly recommend Palmeras y Dunas for anyone looking to explore Merzouga and the Sahara Desert. It’s the perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and Moroccan charm. I can’t...
Read moreStayed one night whilst travelling with a tour group. We were promised at least 4 star accommodation throughout Morocco. So, here we were shocked to be put in a cell-like cement room, in which the air conditioning didn't work at all, only buzzed loudly once every 15 minutes all through the night. The electricity cut off completely in the whole of the "hotel" during most of our stay. (Had to use the torches on our mobile phones). No wardrobe or place to put clothes. Tiny bathroom. Mosquito net on window was torn, so had to keep the one tiny window closed. ||The only saving grace was the dining room, which was in attractive Moroccan style, and the very obliging waiters who served a very tasty and filling chicken soup for dinner. There was no menu to choose from. The simple breakfast was also very tasty. Perhaps the food seemed surprisingly good compared to the awful sleeping facilities! ||Tip: If you book by yourself and get a very cheap price, maybe this place is okay, if you go for the camel trekking. However, if it is part of an organized tour where you are supposed to have good quality accommodation, then you'll probably be very...
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