Exploring the Majestic Landscapes of Dades Valley, Morocco

Fingers Pointing to the Sky

Another day, another adventure in Morocco! Today, Emily and I dove deep into the heart of the Dades Valley, a place where the earth itself seems to reach for the heavens. We explored dramatic canyons and savored the warmth of Berber hospitality. It was a day of incredible sights, delicious food, and a deeper connection with this fascinating land.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at maison isabel on the rocks. The name itself promised a unique experience, and it delivered. Perched perfectly, the views were as stunning as the traditional Berber breakfast spread before us. Emily, ever the history enthusiast, peppered our host with questions about the local culture and history. I, on the other hand, was more focused on the photography opportunities, snapping away at the valley bathed in the morning light.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors amidst breathtaking landscapes at Maison Isabel on the Rocks.

Fueled up and ready to go, we set off towards the Entrée du canyon. The drive itself was a treat, with the landscape transforming at every turn. We passed fields of date palms, their fronds swaying gently in the breeze, and ancient kasbahs clinging to the hillsides like relics of a bygone era. As a marine biologist, I'm used to observing the intricate details of ecosystems, but the geological formations of the Dades Valley were something else entirely. The layers of rock, each telling a story of millennia, were a sight to behold.


Explore the stunning Entrée du Canyon, a breathtaking natural wonder in Morocco, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Arriving at the canyon entrance, we were immediately struck by the sheer scale of the place. Towering cliffs rose on either side, casting long shadows that danced with the sunlight. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of earth and wild herbs. This was exactly the kind of raw, untamed beauty that Emily and I had come to Morocco to experience.

Next on our itinerary was the famed Canyon des doigts de singe, or Monkey Fingers Canyon. And let me tell you, the name doesn't disappoint! The rock formations here are truly bizarre, resembling a set of gnarled fingers reaching skyward. As we hiked through the canyon, we couldn't help but marvel at the forces of nature that had sculpted this surreal landscape. The Dades River, which carved these gorges over millions of years, has created a masterpiece of erosion.


Experience the natural beauty of Canyon des Doigts de Singe, a breathtaking attraction in Ait Ouglif, Morocco, perfect for adventure and photography.

The earth has music for those who listen.

Navigating the canyon wasn't always easy. There were a few spots where we had to scramble over rocks and carefully watch our footing. I was grateful for my hiking boots, even if I had forgotten my sunhat! Emily, ever the pragmatist, had packed hers and shared it with me for a bit. We took our time, soaking in the atmosphere and snapping photos from every angle. It was the kind of place that made you feel small, yet connected to something much larger than yourself.

After our canyon adventure, we were ready for a bite to eat. Lunch at Kasbah Amlal was a welcome treat. The kasbah itself was a stunning example of traditional Berber architecture, with its intricate geometric patterns and sturdy mud-brick walls. The food was equally impressive, a delicious tagine with tender lamb and flavorful vegetables. We sat on the terrace, enjoying the panoramic views and reflecting on the incredible morning we'd had.


Experience authentic Moroccan hospitality at Kasbah Amlal - your gateway to culinary delights and breathtaking views in Dades Valley.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to take a break at Snack Adrar. It wasn't fancy, but it was the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a refreshing mint tea. Sipping the sweet, fragrant brew, we watched as locals went about their daily lives. Children played in the streets, donkeys laden with goods clip-clopped by, and men gathered to chat and share stories. It was a slice of authentic Moroccan life that we wouldn't have experienced in a touristy resort.


Experience the authentic flavors of Moroccan cuisine at Snack Adrar, a culinary gem in the heart of Boumalne Dades.

For dinner, we opted for Café restaurant amazir. This cozy spot offered a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the food was simple but delicious. We shared a plate of grilled meats and a salad, savoring the flavors of the region. As we ate, we chatted about our plans for tomorrow. We intend to explore the Dadés Gorges and hopefully connect with a local guide to learn even more about the area.


Discover exquisite Moroccan flavors at Café Restaurant Amazir, an essential stop for food lovers exploring Akhendachou n'Aït Ouffi.

Looking back on the day, I realized how much I appreciate these moments of discovery. It's not just about seeing the sights, but about connecting with the people, savoring the flavors, and immersing ourselves in the local culture. Emily and I have always cherished these shared experiences, and Morocco is certainly delivering on that front.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the Dades Valley, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. We found beauty not just in the grand landscapes, but in the small, everyday moments. A shared smile with a local, the taste of mint tea on our tongues, the feeling of accomplishment after a challenging hike – these are the memories that will stay with us long after we leave Morocco.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our Dades Valley adventure. We plan to visit Dadés Gorges and connect with the Official Tour Guide Gorge Dades. We will have breakfast at Dar Ahlam Dades hotel, lunch at Auberge Miguirne chez Ali, and a farewell dinner at Hôtel - Restaurant BOUGAFER. Emily also wants to check out SAFOUASHOP for souvenirs before we head back to Marrakech. I am pretty sure we will have a memorable last day in this fascinating land.

Safe travels,
David