Dades Gorges narrows from the city of Boulemane, and the vegetation becomes more sparse. After that, you will see two slopes with a height of 300 meters, separated by a narrow lane of about twenty meters – an unforgettable width. The road will take you to Toudgha: access is challenging but worth it.
Dades gorges
This area of the Moroccan desert is famous for its landscapes and the hospitality of its inhabitants, the Amazighs. This part of the Moroccan desert is known for its beautiful scenery and the kindness of its people, the Amazighs. “The Fingers of the Monkeys” or “Brain of the Atlas” is a group of rocks that stands out among its landscapes. In the surroundings of the Dades Gorges, you will also be surprised by its kasbahs and the picturesque views that make up the High Atlas landscape. Tissadrine is a deep ravine with many meters of unevenness. The road winds to connect with the Msemrir valley.
The Dades Gorges Valley, 25 km long, is one of the most interesting in southern Morocco. The scenery is beautiful, the houses blend into the rocks, and the Dades River runs slowly from high limestone plateaus.
History
The first inhabitants settled in this valley, most in the 1850s; they came from the urban centers of large cities, such as Ouarzazate, Zagora, etc. The king of the time wanted people to populate these regions.
Following the Thirty Glorious, many people from this area moved to France because of France’s policy of hiring workers to work in the fields. Other people moved to the Netherlands.
Dades Strait route
The route through the Dades Gorges consists of more than 60 km of paved road to Msemrir, from where the sandy track only practicable by off-road vehicles begins. For this reason, it is chosen by many people interested in routes through Morocco in 4 × 4.
The Dades Gorges comprises two gorges: the Dades Gorges and the Sidi Boubker Gorges.
Take advantage of the sunset in this place, where these gorges show all their magic.
How to get to the Dades Gorges
To get to the Dades Gorges, you can take a Grand Taxi from the nearest town (Boulmane du Dades) or rent a car to move freely through the gorges and other areas of the Moroccan desert.
Restaurants and hotels in the Dades Gorges
There are numerous Kasbahs and lodges throughout the route where you can eat and sleep. The area has become very touristy, so hotels have increased in the Dades Gorges. Auberge Des Jardins du Dades, Kasbah des Roches, and Auberge Miguirne stand out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the Dades Gorges located?
The High Atlas Mountains are home to the Dades Gorges in the Moroccan province of Tinghir. As it went through the mountains and carved out the gorges, the Dades River created beautiful scenery of cliffs, rough terrain, and deep canyons. People love to visit the Dades Gorges because they offer beautiful scenery and lots of outdoor activities, such as hikes, rock climbing, and more.
How to visit the Dades Gorges?
There are different ways to see the Dades Gorges, so everyone can find a way that works for them.
You could hire a private driver or tour with a guide. Many tourists choose this because it’s easier and they can have a professional driver take them to the gorges. The Dades Gorges, the Todra Gorges, and the Valley of the Roses are often on day trips and trips that last more than one day.
Another option is to rent a car and drive it yourself. If you know how to drive in Morocco, renting a car lets you go at your speed while you explore the Dades Gorges. But be ready for steep climbs and tight turns, and ensure you have a GPS or a thorough map to help you find your way.
Anyone who wants to travel on a budget should take the public bus or a shared car. The village of Boumalne Dades is the starting point for the Dades Gorges. You can get there by public transportation or a shared cab from the nearby town of Tinghir. After that, you can hire a local tour or go on your own to explore the gorges.
No matter how you plan to see the Dades Gorges, you should bring comfortable shoes, sunblock, and water because the ground is rough and the sun is very strong. It’s a good idea to check the weather outlook and road conditions before going on a trip, especially in the winter when the roads may be snow- and ice-covered.
What is the most beautiful place in Morocco the gorges of the Todgha and Dades valley?
The Todgha and Dades valleys and their canyons are undoubtedly some of the most beautiful natural areas in Morocco. Rock climbers and tourists love the Todgha Gorge, which has walls of rock 400 meters high. At the same time, the Dades Gorge has stunning views of the rough mountains and the flowing Dades River.
However, everyone has their idea of what makes a place attractive, and Morocco has many other equally beautiful and important places to visit. Also worth seeing are the Sahara Desert, Essaouira on the coast, the blue city of Chefchaouen, and the old city of Fez. Ultimately, Morocco’s most appealing place will depend on your tastes and interests.
Dades Gorges on the Map
