Valley of Roses: The Essential Travel Guide to Kalaat M'Gouna
- Malika
- Jun 17, 2024
- 12 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Looking for the best things to do in Kalaat M'Gouna or highly recommended places to stay in the Valley of Roses? Discover the ideal time to visit, tips for getting around and the best Valley of Roses tours in this essential travel guide.
On the road that connects Ouarzazate with the Dades Valley and Todra Gorge lies Kalaat M'Gouna, an unassuming Moroccan town with hidden riches. It serves as a gateway to the Valley of Roses, which has been carved over centuries by the Assif M'Goun River as it flows down from the High Atlas mountains.
Here, roses have been grown for generations, with legend telling that they were first brought to Morocco by pilgrims from Saudi Arabia in the 10th century. Today, the rose is woven into every facet of Kalaat M’Gouna’s identity, from the fragrant essential oils and rosewater produced by local artisans to the handicrafts and textiles that showcase the bloom's iconic form.
Morocco's Valley of the Roses holds a special place in my heart because it was here that my husband and I stayed on our honeymoon. With the smell of rose oil wafting through the air and petal-crafted hearts for sale on the side of the road, it's a holiday I’ll never forget.
Kalaat M’Gouna is most famed as the setting for the annual Rose Festival, a celebration that draws visitors from near and far to revel in the region's floral splendour. During this magical time of year, the rosa damascena bursts into bloom and harvest season is in full swing.
But even if your visit doesn't coincide with May, I think the Valley of Roses is worth visiting.
In this Essential Travel Guide to Kalaat M'Gouna, discover the top things to see and do in the Valley of Roses, as well as inspiring places to stay and the best time to visit.
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BEST TOURS TO THE VALLEY OF THE ROSES
Don't have time to read the whole article? These are my top Valley of the Roses tour recommendations:
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best things to do in the Valley of Roses
Experience the Rose Festival
For seven glorious days each May, the local community comes together to honour the bountiful rose harvest that ignites the M'Goun Valley. People travel from all corners of the globe to experience the traditions that define this floral festival - it’s perfect for those who love roses or just the romance they conjure up!
Beyond simply admiring the blooms, festival-goers can discover the myriad ways the local people have utilised roses over the centuries. From fragrant rose water and rose-infused oils to rose-based cosmetic products, the ingenuity and skill of Kalaat M’Gouna's artisans are on full display.
In addition to browsing stalls overflowing with rose goods, you can learn about the processes that transform these delicate petals into sought-after wares. With live music and cultural performances, the Rose Festival is also a celebration of community, heritage and the deep connection the people of this region share with their natural environment.
Things to do in the Valley of the Roses, Morocco
Photograph the Old Bridge
While Kalaat M’Gouna’s Old Bridge has been around for generations, it’s only in recent years that it has been transformed into the colourful attraction of today. When the need arose for a new, modern bridge to accommodate the growing highway, this older structure became a place for local women to clean and air out their rugs.
As a result, it’s a great spot for photography, with multi-coloured Amazigh rugs usually hung across the barriers. After beating the dust from the rugs, they are left to air in the sunshine before being returned to the family home.
Drive through the Valley of the Roses
One of the best ways to explore the area is by driving the 30-kilometre paved road that extends north from Kalaat M’Gouna, hugging the route of the Assif M'Goun River. Along the way, there are ample opportunities to stop and admire the rust-coloured rock formations that appear around every corner.
Dotting the route are tiny villages where life continues as it has done for generations, with the addition of several traditional guesthouses where you can stay overnight.
The drive to the village of Bou Tharar takes less than an hour, ending with a winding descent to a crumbling kasbah. While it is possible to go further, you’ll need a 4x4 vehicle and experience navigating off-road, unmarked routes. Otherwise, turn around and head back to Kalaat M’Gouna the way you came.
Stroll along the valley floor
Wandering along the unmarked trails that crisscross the Valley of Roses is a wonderful experience and can be enjoyed at any time of the year. But it’s particularly special during the rose harvest in April and May when the valley floor is buzzing with activity.
Before getting your hopes up at seeing never-ending fields of roses in bloom, the reality is that the flowers are picked so quickly that they never have a chance to build up in great numbers. Still, it’s incredible to experience the valley in this state of transition and watch the local women harvesting the roses.
It’s best to head out on foot in the morning when the temperatures are still cool. You can either park in one of the villages that dot the Valley of Roses and set off on a self-guided wander or hire a local guide. The latter provides an invaluable opportunity to learn more about the Amazigh people who inhabit the area and their long-established cultural traditions.
Best things to do in the Valley of Roses, Morocco
Shop for rose products
Even outside of the rose harvest season, you’ll find a dizzying array of rose products in the stores that line the main street of Kalaat M’Gouna (some with distilleries onsite). After the rose petals are hand-picked, they are swiftly transported to nearby factories where the real magic begins. Here, the petals undergo a distillation process that separates the precious rose oil from the plant material.
Often referred to as "liquid gold," rose oil is a highly sought-after essence that gives many beauty products their intoxicating scent and purported skin-nourishing, mood-boosting and even migraine-relieving benefits. It takes four metric tons of rose petals to produce just a litre of rose oil, and, as such, it comes with a high price tag!
In the stores of Kalaat M’Gouna, you’ll find everything from rose-infused creams and serums to rose water and pure rose essential oil.
Drive the spectacular Dades Gorge
Kalaat M’Gouna is just a short drive from Dades Gorge, a spectacular valley that is best explored along the scenic Route des Gorges du Dades. The orchards that line the riverbanks provide a striking contrast to the pink-hued sandstone cliffs that rise up on either side, creating a truly enchanting setting.
Not to miss are the unique "Monkey Fingers" rock formations near the village of Tamlalt, which take on an especially magical quality with the warm, golden light of the setting sun. There's a carpark here where you can pull off the main road and really soak it all in!
Another highlight of driving the Route des Gorges du Dades is its series of thrilling switchbacks, which offer jaw-dropping views of the dramatic landscape below. As you navigate the tight, hairpin turns, be sure to pull over at the designated viewpoints to take in the views - it can be dangerous trying to do so when behind the wheel.
The most famous of these lookout spots is at Hotel Restaurant Timzzillite, perched precariously at the very top of the gorge.
As the drive continues northward, the route eventually leads to M'Semrir, the jumping-off point for excursions into Todra Gorge. The 40-kilometre drive to Todra is an epic off-road adventure in itself, but one that should only be attempted by experienced drivers with high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles.
Before setting out, be sure to check on the current conditions of the route, as flash flooding can rapidly deteriorate the road and make the journey treacherous.
To learn more about things to see and do in the Dades Gorge, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Todra Gorge + Dades Gorge + Skoura.
Best things to do in the Valley of Roses, Morocco
Hike from Aït Oudinar to Tamlalt
This 3.5-hour trek along the eastern side of the Dades Valley is a great way to experience the area's natural beauty and gain insight into its cultural heritage. The landscape is dotted with the crumbling remnants of kasbahs and ksour - fortified villages that were once the strongholds of local tribes.
Built using traditional mud-brick and stone construction techniques, these remarkable structures offer a fascinating insight into life here in times gone by. Throughout the trek, you may also discover hidden caves carved into the hillsides where locals have long sought refuge and shelter.
Keep an eye out for local shepherds tending their flocks of sheep and goats as they graze peacefully amidst the dramatic terrain. The trail ends near the entrance of the Canyon des Doigts du Singe - the famous "Monkey's Fingers".
Don’t want to trek alone? This guided Monkey Finger’s canyon hike in Dades Gorge takes in 7 kilometres of spectacular scenery over its three-hour duration.
Best things to do in the Valley of Roses, Morocco
Best tours to the Valley of Roses
If you're not self-driving but still want to explore the Valley of Roses, there are several tours that take in this often-overlooked part of Morocco. Ouarzazate is a popular gateway as you can easily visit the area around Kalaat M'Gouna and Dades Gorge in a single day.
Many tours from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert also pass through the Valley of Roses, although not all will detour along the road to Bou Tharar.
Both Viator and GetYourGuide are good starting points for researching tours to the Valley of Roses, complete with reviews from previous travellers.
This full-day private tour from Ouarzazate includes a visit to Kasbah Amridil in Skoura, lunch in Dades Gorge and a short hike through the Valley of Roses.
On this small-group experience, you'll travel through the gorges of Dades and Todra en route to the Sahara before returning via the Valley of Roses.
Beginning in Marrakech and ending in Fes, this three-day Sahara Desert tour includes visits to Ait Benhaddou and the cedar forests of Afrou, as well as a drive through the Valley of Roses.
How to get to Kalaat M’Gouna and the Valley of Roses
Kalaat M’Gouna is located on the road that connects Skoura with Boumalne Dades (the gateway to Dades Gorge) and Tinghir (the gateway to Todra Gorge).
From Marrakech, it’s around 285 kilometres to Kalaat M’Gouna, with the journey taking around 5 or 6 hours. Most travellers fly into Marrakech Menara Airport, which receives flights from destinations across the globe.
If you’re coming from Marrakech, the drive to the Valley of Roses is an adventure in itself, as the road winds its way up through the dramatic Tizi n Tichka Pass. From here, you’ll be treated to panoramic views across the Atlas Mountains that stretch as far as the eye can see. In Marrakech, you’ll find a wealth of accommodation options to suit all budgets.
If you’re coming from Ouarzazate, the drive should only take around 1.5 hours. In Ouarzazate, there are lots of accommodation options and you can easily visit the Valley of Roses as a day trip.
Alternatively, multi-day tours between Marrakech and Fes often include a stop in the Valley of the Roses (either before or after visiting the Sahara Desert).
Travel guide to the Valley of Roses in Morocco
Best places to stay in the Valley of Roses
Many tours only make a brief stop in the Valley of Roses en route to Dades Gorge or the Sahara Desert. But if you're visiting for the Rose Festival or want to explore the area in depth, there are some fantastic places to stay, both in Kalaat M'Gouna and the valley itself.
Most of the dars and auberges in the area are inspired by kasbah design - some are restored kasbahs while others are new builds. It's a wonderful opportunity to learn more about this vernacular architecture and it's like staying in a living museum.
Most hotels in the Valley of Roses include breakfast in their rates and dinners are available on request (there aren't many restaurants once you get outside of Kalaat M'Gouna)
Located in the charming village of Agoulzi, this eco-friendly hotel offers sustainable stays in the Valley of Roses. The guest rooms, individually decorated with a tasteful blend of traditional Moroccan style and modern comforts, provide sweeping views of the valley below.
Delicious Moroccan specialties are served in the dining room or on the expansive terraces that overlook the Atlas Mountains.
"An amazing view over the Rose Valley! A place for a peaceful retreat to read a book while enjoying the view. The service was great and the breakfasts and dinners were some of the best during our trip in Marroco.” - Francisco (read more reviews here)
Best places to stay in the Valley of Roses
The exterior of Dar Timitar - one of the best places to stay in the Valley of the Roses (photo courtesy of Expedia)
From the moment you step inside this traditional auberge, you know you've arrived somewhere special. The interiors of Kasbah Itran are beautifully decorated, with furnishings that pay homage to the region's Amazigh heritage.
A highlight of any stay at this Valley of Roses hotel is the panoramic views that await on the sprawling decks.
"Perfect home away from home in a historic Kasbah hotel.” - Marianne (read more reviews here)
Best places to stay in the Valley of Roses
Just five minutes’ drive from Kalaat M’Gouna, this kasbah-inspired hotel offers a captivating stay in the Valley of Roses. Each of the rooms is thoughtfully designed with a traditional aesthetic and there’s an inviting lounge with an open fireplace - perfect for chilly winter nights!
A highlight of staying at Kasbah Agoulzi is its picturesque setting, with a furnished terrace that offers breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding mountains.
"A very beautiful kasbah in a very peaceful location with beautiful views.” - Gary (read more reviews here)
Best places to stay in the Valley of Roses
Decorative arches inside Kasbah Agoulzi - a highly-rated hotel in the Valley of the Roses (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Just 10 minutes' drive from Kalaat M'Gouna, Maison d'hôtes IZZA is a tranquil and relaxing hotel in the Valley of Roses. This recently renovated guest house provides comfortable accommodations, a beautifully landscaped garden and a cosy shared lounge where you can unwind at the end of the day.
Guests rave about the hospitality of the hosts and the delicious meals that are served at breakfast, lunch and dinner.
"Maison d'hôtes IZZA is a hidden gem! The property is removed from the center of town, but it is tranquil and serene, overlooking the valley.” - Marta (read more reviews here)
Best places to stay in the Valley of Roses, Morocco
One of the colourful rooms at Maison d'hôtes IZZA (photo courtesy of Expedia)
With its whitewashed rooms and earthy decor, this new hotel in the Valley of the Roses is perfect for a boutique stay. The apartment is beautifully decorated with Amazigh handicrafts and there’s a gorgeous terrace where you can enjoy breakfast each morning.
Something that’s always mentioned by previous guests is the incredible welcome they receive from Dar M'Gouna Roses' host.
"Highly recommend this boutique little spot. So many sweet details.” - Virginia (read more reviews here)
Best time to visit the Valley of Roses, Morocco
Best time to visit the Valley of Roses
Weatherwise, the best times to visit the Valley of Roses in Morocco are the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. During these temperate periods, the days are pleasantly warm, often reaching the mid-20s Celsius (mid-70s Fahrenheit). In contrast, the nights provide a refreshing coolness, dipping down to around 18°C (64°F).
All in all, it's perfect conditions for hiking the valley’s winding trails and wandering its picturesque villages. If you’re visiting in May, coincide your visit with the Festival of Roses, although be sure to book your accommodation and transport well in advance.
The summer months can be brutally hot, with daytime temperatures soaring up to 35°C (95°F). While the dry desert air does provide some relief in the evenings, the relentless midday heat can be draining, making strenuous activities like hiking and rock climbing unpleasant.
The Valley of Roses can also be quite busy during the summertime when European and North American vacationers are visiting Morocco.
The winter months bring a different set of challenges, with mild daytime temperatures but chilly nights. The trade-off is a wonderfully serene atmosphere, as the hordes of day-trippers disappear.
Whenever you choose to visit Kalaat M'Gouna and the Valley of Roses, it's best to start your days early to make the most of the gorgeous lighting and smaller crowds. And if you're self-driving, be sure to avoid the roads after dark, as they are notoriously narrow, winding and poorly lit.
To learn more about driving in Morocco, check out my detailed article here. I recommend you rent a car in Morocco through Discover Cars, which offers free cancellation and 24/7 support. They have everything from compact automatics to manual vans, ensuring there’s something for all travel groups and driving styles.
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About the author
I'm Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I've developed an intense love for Morocco, its majestic landscapes, storied cities and the incredibly warm hospitality of its people. As the owner and content creator of Malika in Morocco, I share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. I am passionate about helping others plan their Moroccan travel adventures to ensure they get the most out of their North African experience.
