The Dades Valley is one of the most dramatic landscapes in southern Morocco, a river valley of red cliffs, palm groves and mud-brick kasbahs on the route between Ouarzazate and the Sahara. It is also one of the best places to slow down on the way to Merzouga.
Here is what to see, how to get there and how to make the most of your stop.
North of Boumalne Dades, the road climbs through narrow switchbacks beside the gorge, with views over eroded rock formations. The famous Monkey Fingers are rock columns shaped by erosion, and the walks along the valley give a close view of village life, orchards and fields.
The valley belongs to the stretch known as the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, lined with fortified earthen houses built by local families and clans. Many are still inhabited, and some have been converted into guesthouses and small lodges.
Planning your trip? Explore Todra Gorge guide, Ouarzazate guide, Sahara desert tours and Marrakech to Merzouga.
Todra Gorge lies roughly an hour from Dades and is worth adding, with towering canyon walls near Tinghir. Most itineraries combine both gorges in one overnight stay.
From Marrakech, plan on a long day of driving through the Tizi n'Tichka pass and Ouarzazate, so many travelers break the journey with a stop at Ait Ben Haddou and sleep in Dades or Tinghir.
Boutique kasbah lodges and guesthouses along the valley offer valley views, terraces and home-style dinners. A private driver-guide can choose the right base and adjust stops to the light.
Yes. It is one of the most scenic parts of southern Morocco and a natural overnight stop on the way to the Sahara.
One night is enough to see the gorges, though two nights allow for walks and a combined visit to Todra Gorge.
Yes, but it is a long drive, so most travelers stop in Ait Ben Haddou or Ouarzazate on the way.
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