What to Do in Dadès Gorge, Morocco: Travel Guide

How to Get to Dadès Gorge

Getting to Dadès Gorge is an adventure in itself, as the journey winds through some of Morocco’s most scenic routes. The gorge is located in the Souss-Massa-Drâa region, near the town of Boumalne Dadès, and serves as a perfect midpoint for travelers moving between Marrakech and the Sahara Desert.

From Marrakech

The most common route starts in Marrakech and heads east through the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the stunning Tizi n’Tichka Pass. The drive takes about 6–7 hours, depending on stops, with plenty of worthwhile detours along the way. Many travelers choose to break up the journey by visiting iconic sites like the UNESCO-listed Ait Ben Haddou and the cinematic city of Ouarzazate, often dubbed the “Hollywood of Morocco.”

From Ouarzazate, you’ll drive through the Skoura Oasis and the fragrant Valley of Roses, especially beautiful in April and May. Shortly after the town of Kalaat M’Gouna, you’ll reach Boumalne Dadès, the gateway to the gorge.

From Merzouga / Sahara Desert

If you’re coming from the desert dunes of Merzouga, the drive to Dadès Gorge takes about 5 hours. The route travels west along the N10, passing through Erfoud and Tinghir, a popular base for exploring Todgha Gorge, before ascending into the Dades Valley.

Transportation Tips

• Self-driving is the best way to explore the region with flexibility. Roads are paved and generally in good condition, but mountain driving requires caution.

• Private tours or shared group tours departing from Marrakech or Fes often include a stop in Dadès Gorge as part of a multi-day itinerary.

• Public transportation is limited in remote areas. If using buses or shared taxis, plan carefully and expect transfers in Ouarzazate or Tinghir.

Whichever direction you travel from, the drive into Dadès Gorge offers an unforgettable approach: a road snaking up sheer cliffs, surrounded by red-rock walls and timeless Berber villages, a journey that feels like entering a secret world carved by nature and time.

Top Things to Do in Dadès Gorge

Whether you’re passing through on a desert tour or staying for a few days, Dadès Gorge promises a blend of striking landscapes and authentic experiences. Below are the top activities and sights that make this area a highlight of any Moroccan adventure.

1. Drive the Iconic Zigzag Road of Tamlalt

No trip to Dadès Gorge is complete without experiencing its famous serpentine road, just beyond the village of Tamlalt. This stretch of winding tarmac, carved into the steep cliffs, is one of Morocco’s most photographed roads. As you ascend the sharp switchbacks, each turn reveals another layer of the gorge’s beauty, canyons, cliffs, and colorful striations in the rock.

At the top, you’ll find a viewpoint overlooking the entire valley, a spectacular panorama that’s especially magical at sunrise or sunset. Bring your camera or drone for cinematic shots. The road is narrow but safe to drive slowly, and local guides or drivers are available if you prefer not to tackle the curves yourself.

2. Marvel at the “Monkey Fingers” Rock Formations

Locally known as “Les Doigts de Singe”, the Monkey Fingers are a surreal series of weathered rock formations found near the village of Ait Arbi. These finger-like pillars rise vertically from the earth in dramatic clusters, creating one of the most unique natural spectacles in the region.

You can hike among these formations, with some trails leading into the narrow passages between the rocks. It’s a photographer’s dream, particularly when the sunlight casts shadows across the sculpted terrain. Guides from local villages often offer short walking tours to hidden viewpoints for a small fee.

3. Hike Along the Dadès River and Valley

The valley carved by the Dadès River offers incredible hiking opportunities. Walking trails wind past terraced gardens, orchards, and ancient irrigation canals, revealing the symbiotic relationship between nature and the local Berber way of life.

You’ll encounter small hamlets built from earth and stone, where locals still farm and tend livestock using centuries-old traditions. Some hikes lead to small gorges, hidden waterfalls, or traditional mills. For a more immersive experience, you can arrange multi-hour or even multi-day guided treks that include homestays in Berber villages.

4. Visit Berber Villages and Kasbahs

A visit to Dadès Gorge isn’t just about the landscape, it’s about the people who call it home. Dotted throughout the valley are authentic Berber villages such as Ait Youl, Boumalne Dadès, and Msemrir, each with its own unique charm.

You’ll find welcoming locals, traditional architecture, and a slower pace of life. Many homes double as guesthouses or homestays, offering warm hospitality, home-cooked meals, and the chance to learn about Amazigh (Berber) traditions. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit some of the region’s old kasbahs, fortified mud-brick homes that once protected families and grain supplies.

5. Enjoy a Traditional Meal in the Mountains

There’s nothing quite like enjoying a Berber tagine in the middle of the Moroccan mountains. Most riads and guesthouses serve homemade meals using local ingredients, think lamb with prunes, chicken with preserved lemon, or vegetarian tagines loaded with root vegetables and mountain herbs.

Many places also offer bread baked in clay ovens, fresh mint tea, and local honey. Dining is often done on rooftop terraces or patios with views of the surrounding cliffs and valleys, meals that nourish both body and soul.

Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Dadès Gorge

While Dadès Gorge offers some of Morocco’s most stunning natural and cultural experiences, it’s still a remote mountain region with limited infrastructure. To make the most of your visit, keep the following travel tips in mind:

1. Internet & Mobile Connectivity

Mobile coverage in the main towns like Boumalne Dadès is generally reliable, but as you drive deeper into the gorge or explore villages, signal strength drops significantly. Wi-Fi is available in most riads and guesthouses but may be slow or intermittent. Download offline maps and any travel documents in advance.

2. Road Conditions and Safety

The main roads are paved and usually in good condition, but the terrain is mountainous and winding, particularly along the famous zigzag road in Tamlalt. If you’re not used to mountain driving, consider hiring a local driver or booking a guided tour. Avoid driving at night, as roads are poorly lit and occasional rockfalls or animals may pose hazards.

3. Cash and Payments

Cash is king in Dadès Gorge. Most local businesses, guesthouses, and restaurants do not accept credit cards. Bring enough Moroccan dirhams (MAD) for your stay, as ATMs are only available in larger towns like Boumalne Dadès. Also, carry small bills for tipping or purchasing local goods.

4. Language

The primary languages spoken are Tamazight (Berber) and Moroccan Arabic, with many locals also speaking basic French or Spanish. English is less common, but not impossible to find in hotels or tour groups. A translation app or phrasebook will be very helpful.

5. Cultural Etiquette

This is a traditional and conservative region, so modest clothing is recommended, especially when visiting villages or staying in family-run guesthouses. Always greet people respectfully, and ask permission before photographing individuals, particularly women.

6. Health and Safety

Dadès Gorge is generally safe for travelers, but it’s a good idea to bring a basic medical kit with you, including any necessary prescription medications. Tap water is not recommended for drinking; bottled or filtered water is available at most accommodations.

7. Booking Accommodations

There are several charming riads, eco-lodges, and guesthouses in and around Boumalne Dadès and deeper in the valley. Many are family-run, offering warm hospitality, home-cooked meals, and guided activities. Booking in advance is advised during peak seasons (spring and autumn), especially if you want to stay at a boutique or panoramic lodge.

With a little preparation, a visit to Dadès Gorge can be smooth, enriching, and full of spontaneous moments—whether that’s a surprise invitation for mint tea in a Berber home or discovering a hidden trail through red rock canyons.

Why Dadès Gorge is Worth Visiting

Dadès Gorge isn’t just a stop between Marrakech and the Sahara, it’s a destination that leaves a deep imprint on every traveler lucky enough to experience it. This spectacular canyon, carved by time and nature, offers more than just scenery; it invites you into a world where landscapes shift with the sun, ancient kasbahs whisper stories of the past, and genuine encounters with local Berber communities provide lasting memories.

Unlike Morocco’s more crowded tourist hubs, Dadès Gorge retains an atmosphere of authenticity and tranquility. You won’t find flashy attractions here; what you will find are winding roads that hug crimson cliffs, peaceful hikes through terraced valleys, starry nights in mountain lodges, and heartfelt hospitality that reflects the soul of rural Morocco.

Whether you’re chasing dramatic photography, immersing yourself in Berber culture, or seeking moments of stillness in nature, Dadès Gorge is a place where adventure and serenity coexist. It’s a detour that feels like a discovery, and for many, one of the most meaningful highlights of their Moroccan journey.