A Solo Journey Through Morocco's Dades Valley

A Day Among Giants
The Dades Valley continues to surprise me with its raw, untamed beauty. Today was all about immersing myself in the landscape, from navigating canyons that feel like nature's playground to witnessing panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. It's days like these that remind me why I set out on this solo journey in the first place – to find moments of awe and connection in the heart of the unknown.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Café restaurant Oussikis. I fueled up with traditional Moroccan fare, eager to explore the natural wonders that awaited. The air was crisp, a welcome change from the warmer temperatures I'm used to in Kelowna, and I made sure to layer up before heading out. I was particularly excited to visit Monkey Fingers Canyon, a location I'd seen countless photos of before arriving.


Discover the enchanting Monkey Fingers Canyon in the Gorges du Dadès, where stunning rock formations and rich Moroccan culture await your exploration.
The drive to Monkey Fingers Canyon was an adventure in itself. The winding roads offered glimpses of the valley's dramatic rock formations, and I couldn't resist stopping every few minutes to capture the scenery with my camera. As I approached the canyon, the landscape transformed into a labyrinth of towering cliffs and narrow passages.

Hiking through Monkey Fingers Canyon was like stepping into another world. The unique rock formations, shaped by centuries of wind and erosion, resembled giant, rounded fingers reaching towards the sky. It was a surreal experience to walk through the narrow passages, sometimes having to duck under rocks and scramble over boulders. The canyon walls towered above me, creating a sense of both awe and vulnerability. I even had to climb a tree at one point to continue! Despite the name, I didn't spot any monkeys, but the landscape was captivating enough on its own.

I took one of the longer, more challenging routes. I passed local shepherds with their goats and children playing near small villages. It was a reminder of the vibrant Berber culture that thrives in this remote region. The best time to visit Monkey Fingers is in the late afternoon, when the temperatures are cooler, and the light is perfect for photography. I started my hike at 9 am, and only got nice light around noon.

After spending a few hours exploring Monkey Fingers Canyon, I drove to the Tisderine bends, Boumalne Dades. The road to the bends was a series of hairpin turns, each offering a more breathtaking view than the last. From the top, I could see the Dades Valley stretching out before me, a panorama of vibrant colors and striking topography. I stopped at a local Berber village, where I experienced the charm of traditional Moroccan culture.


Explore the breathtaking Tisderine Bends in Boumalne Dades, a captivating natural attraction showcasing Morocco's stunning landscapes and cultural heritage.

Sometimes, the most rewarding travel experiences are the ones that push you out of your comfort zone and into the heart of the unknown.

For lunch, I stopped at Café-restaurant Timzzillite Chez Mohamed. This diner is known for its authentic Moroccan dishes, blending traditional recipes with fresh, local ingredients. I enjoyed a tagine, savoring the flavors of the region while taking in the panoramic views. It was more than just a meal; it was a gathering spot where locals and visitors came together to share stories and enjoy the flavors of Morocco.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café-Restaurant Timzzillite Chez Mohamed, where stunning views meet delightful flavors.
In the afternoon, I set out to find the Cascade, a hidden waterfall nestled in the Dades Valley. The drive was challenging, with narrow, winding roads leading me deeper into the mountains. But the reward was well worth the effort. The cascade was a refreshing oasis, a tranquil spot where I could escape the heat and soak in the natural beauty. I spent a few hours exploring the area, taking photos, and simply enjoying the peace and quiet.


Experience the serene beauty of the Cascade in Ait Ibriren, a natural wonder offering breathtaking views and a tranquil escape into nature.
As the sun began to set, I made my way back to Boumalne Dades, stopping at Café Achaf for a drink. This café is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike, known for its hospitable service and authentic Moroccan cuisine. I sipped on traditional mint tea, reflecting on the day's adventures and enjoying the warm ambiance.


Discover the flavors of Morocco at Café Achaf in Boumalne Dades, where authentic cuisine meets warm hospitality in a stunning setting.
For dinner, I chose Restaurant Chez Aïcha Timlalt. I enjoyed a traditional Moroccan meal, savoring the flavors of the region and reflecting on the day's adventures. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Chez Aïcha Timlalt in Boumalne Dades' breathtaking Dades Gorge.
As I write this, I'm sitting in my guesthouse, sipping on a cup of tea and looking forward to tomorrow's adventure. I plan to explore the Gorges du Dadès, visit the Kasbah Tizzarouine, and discover the Citadelle Dades. I'm also hoping to do some shopping at DADES VERT, a local shop.

Today was a reminder of the simple joys of travel: exploring new landscapes, connecting with local cultures, and finding moments of peace in the heart of the unknown. The Dades Valley continues to captivate me with its dramatic beauty and warm hospitality. I'm grateful for the opportunity to experience this unique corner of the world, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

The Dades Valley is an untouched Moroccan countryside that remains relatively untouched and still home to a number of Berber villages. I have noticed that the weather in late fall and winter is cooler than in the summer months. I remembered that I had forgotten sunscreen and a local SIM card. I will need to get them soon.