Immersing oneself in the flavors of Moroccan cuisine can be a truly enriching experience. This desert cooking class, hosted by a local Berber family, offers a unique opportunity to dive into the heart of authentic Moroccan culinary traditions. Over the course of four captivating hours, you will engage in hands-on cooking, learning to prepare time-honored dishes like the renowned Nomads Pizza. But the experience extends beyond the kitchen, as a scenic 4×4 desert excursion promises to transport guests to the very essence of Moroccan culture. With dietary accommodations and a warm family atmosphere, this class promises to leave a lasting impression on those who…
Good To Know
- Immersive hands-on cooking class with a local Berber family in Merzouga, offering traditional Moroccan dishes including Nomads Pizza.
- 4-hour activity with pickup within 20 km, suitable for various dietary requirements and skill levels.
- Includes 4×4 desert excursion, mint tea, Moroccan pastries, and a full meal after the cooking session.
- Guided by a multilingual private tour guide who shares cultural and culinary insights.
- Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Activity Overview
The desert cooking class is a 4-hour hands-on experience where guests learn to prepare traditional Moroccan dishes with a local Berber family.
Priced at $131.25 per person, the class offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Participants can reserve their spot with no upfront payment.
The class is available in Spanish, English, French, and Arabic. Pickup is included for accommodations within 20 km of Merzouga.
The class isn’t suitable for individuals with back/heart problems, or those over 70 or 95 years old.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Khemliya.
Experience Highlights
A culinary experience awaits as guests learn and cook traditional Moroccan dishes with a local Berber family.
The culture includes visiting Khamlia village, playing traditional instruments, and meeting nomadic families.
In the cooking class, you will prepare Nomads Pizza and other typical Moroccan specialties in a family atmosphere. Guests will savor mint tea, Moroccan pastries, and a full meal composed of starters, a main course, and a delectable dessert.
This hands-on experience allows for teamwork, understanding local culinary secrets, and tasting the prepared dishes.
Afterward, guests will enjoy a 4×4 trip through the stunning desert scenery before returning to their accommodations.
Itinerary Details
Initial activities commence with a discussion of any dietary restrictions participants may have. Next, the group visits nomadic families and enjoys traditional Moroccan tea. The hands-on cooking session involves teamwork and learning local culinary secrets. Participants prepare Nomads Pizza and other typical dishes. After the cooking, the group tastes the prepared meal and embarks on a 4×4 trip through the desert scenery.
| Activity | Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Activities | 30 mins | Discuss dietary restrictions, visit nomadic families, enjoy tea |
| Cooking Session | 2 hours | Hands-on cooking, teamwork, learn local secrets |
| Post-Cooking | 1 hour | Taste prepared meal, 4×4 trip through desert |
| Return | 30 mins | Drive back to hotel or free time if own transportation |
| Total Duration | 4 hours | – |
Inclusions and Exclusions
The desert cooking class includes a private tour guide fluent in English, Spanish, and French, as well as a local guide who provides insights into the cultural and culinary traditions.
The experience also includes a 4×4 trip, food and drink tastings with vegetarian alternatives, and a full lunch with drinks like tea, coffee, and bottled water. Gratuities are covered as well.
However, alcohol isn’t included, and hotel pickup/drop-off is only provided for locations within 20 km.
The activity isn’t recommended for individuals with back/heart problems or those over 70 or 95 years old.
More Great Tours NearbyDietary Requirements
Vegetarian and dietary restrictions can be accommodated during the desert cooking class. The hosts are happy to provide meatless alternatives and cater to various dietary needs.
Just let them know about any allergies or preferences when making the reservation. This ensures you’ll fully enjoy the authentic Moroccan cuisine prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
The cooking class itself is a hands-on experience where you’ll learn how to make traditional dishes like Nomads Pizza. At the end, you’ll savor the delicious meal in a warm, family atmosphere.
The class is suitable for all levels, from novice to experienced home cooks.
Preparation and Attire
Comfortable shoes and sports shoes are recommended for the desert cooking class. The terrain can be uneven, so proper footwear is essential for safety and comfort.
Plus, a camera is encouraged to capture the memorable moments of the culinary and cultural experience.
Participants should avoid wearing heavy or restrictive clothing that may impede movement during the cooking session. The class encourages a casual, relaxed atmosphere, so lightweight, breathable fabrics are advised.
Lastly, it’s important to note that smoking is prohibited inside the vehicle and indoor spaces to ensure a pleasant environment for all attendees.
Restrictions and Rules
Participants should keep in mind that no smoking is allowed in the vehicle or indoor areas during the desert cooking class.
The organizers also prohibit consuming alcohol or drugs, as well as feeding the animals. This ensures a safe and respectful environment for all.
Plus, communication with the organizers should be facilitated via the provided WhatsApp number for updates and confirmations.
Following these simple rules allows for a seamless and enjoyable experience, enabling participants to fully enjoy the cultural and culinary aspects of the class.
Adherence to these guidelines creates an atmosphere conducive to learning and appreciation of the local traditions.
Communication and Booking
The booking process for the Desert Cooking Class is straightforward and convenient. Guests can reserve their spot with no upfront payment, paying later.
The class is offered in multiple languages – Spanish, English, French, and Arabic – accommodating a diverse audience. To ensure smooth coordination, participants are asked to provide their WhatsApp number during the reservation. This allows the organizers to share updates and confirmations.
The cancellation policy is flexible, offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. With these hassle-free booking options, guests can easily secure their place in this immersive culinary experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Typical Cuisine Prepared in the Cooking Class?
The cooking class teaches participants to prepare traditional Moroccan dishes, including Nomads Pizza and other typical local specialties. Guests learn culinary secrets from the Berber family and enjoy a meal featuring starters, a main course, and dessert.
How Long Is the Cultural Immersion Experience in Khamlia Village?
The culture experience in Khamlia village lasts for an unspecified duration, during which participants visit nomadic families and play traditional instruments. The itinerary details don’t provide an exact timeframe for this portion of the activity.
Can Participants Take Home the Recipes Learned During the Class?
Participants can take home the recipes they learn during the cooking class. The local guide will provide them with a recipe booklet to reference and recreate the traditional Moroccan dishes in their own kitchens.
Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for This Activity?
The activity has a minimum group size of 2 and a maximum group size of 8 participants. The small group size ensures an intimate cultural experience and personalized attention from the local hosts.
Are There Opportunities to Purchase Local Handicrafts or Products?
The activity doesn’t mention any opportunities to purchase local handicrafts or products. However, participants may have some free time after the cooking class to explore the local area and potentially find artisanal shops or markets.
The Sum Up
This unique desert cooking class offers a genuine culture. You’ll learn traditional Moroccan recipes while savoring local hospitality. The scenic 4×4 excursion and hands-on cooking experience promise an unforgettable journey into Moroccan flavors. With dietary accommodations and a warm family atmosphere, this class is a perfect blend of culinary and adventure.
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