A Solo Journey Through Morocco's Dades Valley

First Day in the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs

The journey to Dades Valley felt like stepping into another world. Leaving behind the familiar landscapes of Kelowna, with its orchards and wineries, I embarked on a solo adventure to immerse myself in the raw beauty of Morocco. The anticipation had been building ever since I booked my flights, and now, as I set foot in this remarkable valley, I knew this trip would be one for the books. It's a crisp December morning, and the air is filled with the promise of exploration and discovery.

My first stop was the intriguing Pattes Des Singes, also known as the Monkey Paw Mountains.


Discover the breathtaking hiking trails of Pattes Des Singes in Gorges du Dadès, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in Morocco.

After a hearty breakfast at CAFE RESTAURANT AIT SEDRAT, fueling up with traditional Moroccan fare, I set out to witness these unique rock formations. The drive itself was an experience, winding through the valley with the Dades River as my constant companion. The landscape transformed into a mesmerizing display of red and ochre hues, shaped by centuries of wind and water. It was easy to see why this area is also called the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs; the ancient fortified villages added a layer of history and mystique to the already stunning scenery.

As I approached the Monkey Paw Mountains, I was struck by their otherworldly appearance. These towering rock formations jutted out from the earth, resembling a giant's playful hand reaching towards the sky. I spent hours wandering around, taking photographs from every angle, trying to capture the essence of this geological wonder. It was truly a photographer's paradise, with the vibrant colors of the rocks contrasting against the clear blue sky. The mild December climate, with highs around 17°C (63°F), made it perfect for hiking and exploring.

The Dades Valley is a place where the ancient whispers of Berber culture blend seamlessly with the dramatic beauty of nature, creating an unforgettable symphony for the senses.

Next on the itinerary was the Dades panoramic view.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Dades Panoramic View, where mountains and valleys create an unforgettable experience in Morocco.

Following the advice I found, I headed towards Tamellat, about 25 kilometers from Boumalne Dades. The road climbed steadily, offering increasingly breathtaking vistas of the valley below. I finally reached the spot, marked by a hotel perched on the mountain and a small bar above it. From there, the view was simply spectacular. The serpentine road snaked its way through the valley, a testament to human ingenuity and the raw power of nature. I could see for miles in every direction, the towering cliffs and winding rivers creating a picture-perfect backdrop against the desert landscape.

I paused to reflect on my life back in Kelowna. Managing the orchard is fulfilling, but there's something about traveling solo that ignites a different kind of passion within me. It's a chance to disconnect from the routine, to challenge myself, and to discover new perspectives. I thought about Mei-Ling and Lin, wishing they could share this moment with me. Perhaps one day we'll return together as a family. I made sure to call them in the evening to tell them all about it.

Before heading back, I decided to indulge in a bit of shopping at accessoires dades abd elhamid.


Explore authentic Moroccan crafts at Accessoires Dades Abd Elhamid in Kalaat M'Gouna, a must-visit store for unique souvenirs.

It was a small shop, filled with local crafts and souvenirs. I picked up a few trinkets for Mei-Ling and Lin, hoping to bring a piece of Dades Valley back home with me. Supporting local artisans is important to me, and it felt good to contribute to the community in a small way.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the valley, I made my way to Restaurant Fatima Berber gorges du dades for a late lunch.


Experience exquisite Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Fatima Berber in Dades Gorges - home to the best tajine in Morocco.

I had heard rave reviews about their tajine, and I was not disappointed. The flavors were rich and complex, a perfect blend of spices and tender meat. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made me feel right at home. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration.

My final stop for the day was Auberge Chez Pierre for dinner.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine and hospitality at Auberge Chez Pierre in Boumalne Dades, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

The auberge was beautiful, with flowers everywhere. The dinner was outstanding with 5 courses. I enjoyed the innovative cuisine that fused European and Moroccan flavors using local produce.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Monkey Fingers Canyon, Tisderine bends, and a local cascade. I am also thinking of stopping by Café Achaf. As I settle into my guesthouse for the night, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Dades Valley has already captured my heart with its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings and to continue sharing my journey with all of you.

The clear, sunny weather made it easy to take pictures. I am missing sunscreen though, and I wish I had a local SIM card. Perhaps I can buy these tomorrow.

This trip is a reminder of the beauty and diversity that our world has to offer. It's a call to step outside our comfort zones, to embrace the unknown, and to connect with people and cultures different from our own. As I drift off to sleep, I am filled with a sense of peace and gratitude, knowing that this is just the beginning of my solo journey through Morocco.

The Monkey Paw Mountains are truly a sight to behold. The Dades Valley is home to dramatic rock formations. I am excited to explore the Monkey Fingers Canyon tomorrow.