Is Dades Gorge Worth Visiting? 8 Reasons to Add it to Your Morocco Itinerary
- Malika
- Nov 4, 2024
- 13 min read
Updated: Jun 11
Etched into the Atlas Mountains by its namesake river, Dades Gorge is a breathtakingly beautiful and dramatic landscape that has captivated travellers for centuries. I will never forget the first time we drove through the gorge - I was honestly left speechless at just how atmospheric it was.
So if anyone asks me: “Is Dades Gorge worth visiting?” my answer is a resounding “Yes!”
The gorge's spectacular walls have an untamed quality, shaped by the relentless forces of wind, water and tectonic uplift over time. After the hustle and bustle of Marrakech, Dades feels a world away - it's dotted with traditional Amazigh villages where life hums along at an enticingly relaxed pace.
Unmarked trails wind their way through the gorge, offering ample opportunity for exploration - I've gotten lost here so many times but it's all part of the experience! Added to that, there are some truly wonderful hotels to stay in, from family-run guesthouses to upmarket auberges.
In this article, I’ll answer the question “Is Dades Gorge worth visiting?” by giving you 8 reasons why you should add this natural wonder to your Morocco itinerary.
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Here are some of my recommended tours to Dades Gorge and Todra Gorge:
One day tours to Dades and Todra Gorges
Multi-day tours to Dades and Todra gorges
TABLE OF CONTENTS
8 reasons why Dades Gorge is worth visiting
It is of historical significance to semi-nomadic Amazigh tribes
The Dades region of Morocco has a long human history, with evidence of settlements dating back to ancient times. Scattered throughout the gorge are several archaeological sites that offer a fascinating glimpse into the region's past.
Among these are the remains of ancient fortifications, grand mosques and ornate tombs that provide insights into the region's original inhabitants. Cultural artefacts belonging to Indigenous Amazigh people continue to be discovered to this day, including practical pottery pieces, beautiful jewellery and agricultural tools.
Beyond its historical significance, the Dades region also plays an important economic role, with its fertile land yielding an abundance of agricultural products. Groves of olive trees, fig orchards, almond farms and date palm plantations dot the gorge while shepherds herd flocks of sheep renowned for their high-quality wool. This fibre is transformed into beautiful carpets and rugs that hang throughout the souks of Marrakech.
Is Dades Gorge worth visiting?
It’s home to one of Morocco’s most scenic driving routes
Winding through Dades Gorge is the spectacular Route des Gorges du Dades, which stretches for around 25 kilometres from the town of Boumalne Dades. It follows the banks of the Dades River and offers wonderful views of the orchards and villages framed by the gorge's pink sandstone cliffs.
There are several places to stop along the way, including several pullouts, so give yourself plenty of time to complete the drive. A highlight is undoubtedly the “Monkey Fingers” rock formations near Tamlalt - there's a parking area where you can stop to really take it all in!
Towards the end of the gorge is a series of exhilarating switchbacks that provide incredible views down below. Be sure to exercise caution while manoeuvring around trucks and other vehicles at the sharp turns. One of the most popular lookout points is at Hotel Restaurant Timzzillite, situated at the gorge's summit. Here, you can enjoy a cup of Moroccan mint tea on their scenic terrace - the views are to die for!
Should you visit Dades Gorge in Morocco?
There are some epic hiking trails to explore
Dades Gorge is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. There's an abundance of opportunities for both leisurely walks and vigorous hikes amidst the visually striking scenery.
Most of the trails wind between pretty orchards and take in traditional Amazigh villages where you’ll encounter warm hospitality (and can pick up drinks and snacks along the way). That being said, it's important to note that most of the walking trails are unmarked and detailed maps of the area are difficult to find.
If you're not comfortable with the idea of getting lost, it’s best to take a guide with you!
One of the most popular hikes in the Dades Gorge is the 3.4-hour trek from Aït Oudinar to Tamlalt, which meanders along the eastern edge of the Dades River. Aside from passing some atmospheric kasbahs and ksours, the stark contrast between the arid mountains and the vegetated valley below is remarkable. Along the way, you might be lucky enough to spot shepherds guiding their flocks of sheep and goats.
Eventually, you'll reach the impressive rock formations known as the “Monkey's Fingers”, which are a geological highlight of Dades Gorge. The path then takes you through the village of Ait Arbi before arriving at the entrance of the Canyon des Doigts du Singe opposite Tamlalt.
Don’t want to trek alone? This guided Monkey Finger’s canyon hike in Dades Gorge takes in seven kilometres of spectacular scenery over its three-hour duration and comes highly recommended.
Is Dades Gorge worth visiting?
It’s near some fascinating cultural museums
Aside from its natural wonders, I also think Dades Gorge is worth visiting due to its cultural riches. While you can learn a lot by chatting with locals or engaging the services of a guide, there are several museums in the area that I would recommend exploring.
Centred around the mineral-rich springs of Lalla Mimouna, the Musée des Sources de Lalla Mimouna is a unique indoor-outdoor exhibition space that showcases an impressive array of artefacts and relics. They have been collected over several years by local resident Zaid Abbou and offer a fascinating glimpse into the traditional way of life in the area.
As you wander between the centuries-old ceramics, agricultural tools and illuminated books on display, you can read literary quotes celebrating the value of nature and the importance of water. The Musée des Sources de Lalla Mimouna is around 1.5 hours' drive east of Boumalne Dades, just beyond Tinghir.
You can combine your visit to Lalla Mimouna with a stop at the nearby Musée de Oasis, which occupies the beautifully preserved Ksar El Khorbat. It chronicles the migratory paths of ancient tribes and is a hidden gem for history buffs.
The artefacts on display include worn leather saddles, water receptacles and butter-holding urns, as well as wooden tablets inscribed with a blend of Arabic and Hebrew scripts. These informative displays, presented in French, English and Spanish, also explain the architectural distinctions between a ksar and a kasbah.
It can be used as a base for exploring Todra Gorge
Around 50 kilometres east of Boumalne Dades is the town of Tinghir, which marks the start of Todra Gorge. It’s notable for its towering limestone cliffs (some of which reach 300 metres in height) and is a popular destination for climbing due to its sheer rock faces.
One of the best introductory hikes through Todra is the three-hour loop trail that starts at the northern entrance to the gorge, close to the artisan stalls. It takes you up a hillside via a series of concrete steps, eventually leading to a mountain pass.
Along the route, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the canyon below before making your way down to the palm-lined village of Tizgui. Guided hikes are readily available if you don't want to explore alone. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider this half-day rock-climbing experience in Todra Gorge.
In addition to its hiking trails, Todra Gorge also provides a fascinating glimpse into North Africa's ancient past through its abandoned ksour - fortified mud-brick villages that once served as both homes and fortresses. While many are now crumbling and in disrepair, a few, like the cliffside Ksar Asfalou and the still-inhabited Ksar Tinerhir, allow you to explore these evocative relics firsthand.
Also not to miss is the Palmeraie de Tinghir - an oasis of towering date palms that’s ideal for a leisurely wander.
Whether you're an experienced mountaineer or a casual explorer simply looking to soak in the stunning scenery, Todra Gorge is definitely worth visiting.
Is Dades Gorge worth visiting?
It can be combined with a visit to the Valley of the Roses
Dades Gorge serves as an ideal base for exploring the Valley of the Roses, which centres around the town of Kalaat M’Gouna (located half an hour's drive southwest of Boumalne Dades). As spring arrives, this enchanting region bursts to life with the blooming of Damascus roses, which are transformed into a variety of products.
The best time to visit Morocco's Valley of the Roses is during April and May when the sweet fragrance of roses fills the air - trust me when I say you'll smell it long before you arrive. Along the roadside, you’ll find vendors selling heart-shaped creations made from rose petals, as well as locally distilled rose oil.
The town of Kalaat M’Gouna hosts an annual festival in May to celebrate all things roses - coincide your visit if possible!
For more travel inspiration, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to the Valley of the Roses.
It's an ideal rest stop en route between Marrakech and the Sahara
Dades Gorge is located roughly halfway between Marrakech and the Sahara, so it’s the perfect place to overnight and break up the journey. Many tours to the Sahara from Marrakech and trips departing from Fes do just that, including these 3-day and 4-day options.
Even if you’re planning a Sahara Desert camp experience independently and self-driving, I would recommend breaking up the journey in Dades Gorge. Not only will you get to explore one of Morocco’s most beautiful areas but you’ll arrive in Merzouga feeling much fresher than if you do the 550 kilometre journey in one go.
Top tip: My recommendation would be to stop in Dades Gorge on the way to the Sahara and perhaps stay in Todra Gorge or Skoura (which has some amazing kasbah hotels) on the way back to experience something different.
For more information about driving in Morocco, check out my detailed article here.
Is Dades Gorge worth visiting?
There are some wonderful places to stay in Dades Gorge
Speaking about spending a night, there are some fantastic auberges and guesthouses in Dades Gorge. In my opinion, they offer a completely different experience to the riads of Marrakech and the desert camps of the Sahara.
The accommodation prices in Dades are also VERY reasonable and most include breakfast in their rates. All of the guesthouses we’ve stayed at in Dades Gorge also offer meals at night as there aren’t many independent restaurants in the area.
Best places to stay in Dades Gorge
La Perle du Dades is definitely one of the best places to stay in Dades Gorge, thanks to its stunning architecture and unique blend of modern and traditional design. The serene gardens feature a lovely swimming pool, making it an ideal spot to relax on hot summer days.
Not only does this kasbah-inspired hotel boast an incredible setting but the welcome you receive from Mustapha and his sisters is second to none. There are several terraces where you can soak up the sunshine and views, plus the four-course dinners made from locally-grown organic produce may just be the best Moroccan food you've ever eaten.
La Porte du Dades draws inspiration from kasbah architecture, featuring a selection of charming rooms that surround a peaceful courtyard. The dedicated staff is committed to making your stay unforgettable and the dining experience is exceptional.
Is Dades Gorge worth visiting?
FAQs about visiting Dades Gorge
Where is the Dades Gorge?
Dades Gorge lies in the High Atlas Mountains, approximately 100 kilometres south of Marrakech. It begins at the town of Boumalne Dades - a historic meeting point of tribes moving between the summer pastures of the High Atlas and the wintering pastures of the Saghro Massif.
Over centuries, the Dades River has etched its way between the mountains, creating towering walls and a scene of awe-inspiring natural grandeur. Its crystal-clear waters contrast beautifully against the pink sandstone peaks of the surrounding mountains and the agricultural fields that flourishes along its banks.
What is the geological history of Dades Gorge?
Millions of years ago, the area that now forms Dades Gorge was submerged beneath the water at the bottom of an ancient sea. Over the eons, great quantities of sediment accumulated around its massive coral reefs, slowly compacting into sedimentary rock formations of sandstone and limestone.
As the African and Eurasian plates collided, the tremendous forces generated caused the region to gradually rise up, birthing the towering peaks of the Atlas Mountains and the surrounding terrain. Amidst this geologic upheaval, the Dades River established its winding course, eroding the porous sedimentary rock of the newly-formed mountains.
For much of the year, the Dades carries a relatively modest flow due to the dry, arid climate of the area. However, following heavy rains, the river can be transformed, swelling with enormous quantities of water that come rushing down in powerful torrents.
It's these floodwaters that are responsible for scouring the gorge walls, carrying away vast amounts of debris that grind and scrape against the softer rock. In this fashion, Dades Gorge has been gradually enlarged and deepened into the natural wonder seen today.
Is Dades Gorge worth visiting?
How can you get from Marrakech to Dades Gorge?
If you're driving from Marrakech, it's approximately 320 kilometres to reach the start of Dades Gorge and the trip usually takes about 5 to 6 hours in a car.
From Marrakech, the road winds upwards through the Tizi n Tichka Pass where you’ll be treated to panoramic views across the Atlas Mountains. After snaking along cliffside roads, you’ll eventually descend to the film studio city of Ouarzazate, which serves as a gateway to the ancient ksar of Ait Benhaddou. From Ouarzazate, it’s around two hours’ drive to Boumalne Dades.
For more information about things to do in Ouarzazate and the best places to stay, check out my Ultimate Guide to Ouarzazate.
Nestled between Ouarzazate and Boumalne Dades lies the oasis town of Skoura, which is one of our favourite places to stay en route to Dades and Todra. It is peppered with stunning old kasbahs, many of which have been converted into boutique hotels and guesthouses, some with inviting swimming pools and organic kitchen gardens. I feel like staying in a kasbah hotel is a quintessentially Moroccan experience and Skoura definitely boasts some of the country's best!
Once you reach Boumalne Dades, the Route des Gorges du Dades meanders northward, revealing incredible views of the surrounding cliffs, winding river and traditional villages. The road is well-paved and generally in good shape, with several pullouts where you can stop to fully appreciate the beauty.
If you want to travel independently, I’d suggest renting a car in Marrakech or Ouarzazate and embarking on a road trip to Dades Gorge. There's also the option to include Todra Gorge, Skoura or even the Sahara Desert in your itinerary. Spend your days exploring the area on foot and by car, then relax for the night in one of the charming guesthouses or boutique hotels dotted throughout the area.
Can you reach Dades Gorge by public transport?
If you don’t want to drive yourself and aren’t up for a tour, jump aboard a bus in Marrakech or Ouarzazate and get off in Boumalne Dades. From there, you can take a shared taxi into the gorge (they leave once full) and enjoy a stay at one of the family-run guesthouses in the area.
Alternatively, there are several hotels in Boumalne Dades that operate 4x4 tours and guided hikes through the gorge that can easily be arranged on arrival.
Is Dades Gorge worth visiting?
Are there tours to Dades Gorge?
Yes, if you're looking for a hassle-free adventure, consider an overnight adventure or an all-inclusive day trip to Dades Gorge from Marrakech or Ouarzazate. Some visit both Todra and Dades while others include a night under the stars in a desert camp in the Sahara. Many multi-day tours from Marrakech to Dades Gorge also include a visit to Ait Benhaddou - an ancient ksar that has provided a setting for countless films.
Recommended one day tours to Dades and Todra Gorges
Recommended multi-day tours to Dades and Todra gorges
How far is Dades Gorge from Marrakech?
The journey from Marrakech to Dades Gorge is approximately 320 kilometres (around 200 miles) and can take anywhere from 5 to 6 hours. The most common and well-travelled route leads you over the Tizi n'Tichka Pass in the High Atlas Mountains and offers incredible views over the rugged (often snowcapped) peaks.
After navigating the twists and turns of the Tizi n'Tichka, the route continues eastward, passing through the towns of Ouarzazate and Skoura before finally reaching Boumalne Dades.
What is the difference between Dades Gorge and Todra Gorge?
Todra Gorge and Dades Gorge are two spectacular natural areas in the High Atlas Mountains of Morocco, although they possess distinct characteristics that set them apart.
Todra Gorge (near the town of Tinghir) is renowned for its towering limestone cliffs that soar up to 300 metres in height, creating a dramatic and narrow passage through which the Todra River flows. In contrast, Dades Gorge (near the town of Boumalne Dades) is a broader geological formation, with its slopes and cliffs stretching across a larger area.
While Todra Gorge is flanked by a palm grove, Dades Gorge features scattered oases and traditional Amazigh villages. Both can easily be accessed via winding roads that hug their river beds and there’s a good choice of accommodation if you want to spend the night.
How long is Dades Gorge Road?
The road that winds through Dades Gorge extends for around 25 kilometres from the town of Boumalne Dades and can easily be driven in a compact rental car. That being said, the road includes serpentine bends and is not always smooth, so you need to have your wits about you.
As the road twists and turns, drivers and passengers are treated to incredible views of he gorge's rust-coloured cliffs and striking rock formations. Be sure to take advantage of the numerous pullouts to really appreciate the views.
When is the best time to visit Dades Gorge?
While you can explore this part of Morocco throughout the year, the best time to visit Dades Gorge is during the temperate spring and autumn seasons. From March through May, as well as September through November, the weather is generally mild and comfortable - not too hot and not too cold.
In the springtime, the trees ignite with blossom, making this one of the most picturesque times to visit Dades Gorge. The pleasant temperatures make it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and rock climbing. The cooling autumn months are another optimal time for exploration and are relatively quiet after the busy summer tourist season.
