Exploring the Majestic Landscapes of Dades Valley, Morocco

The Twists and Turns of Dades

Today was a day of embracing the journey, quite literally. The Dades Valley, with its promise of dramatic landscapes and hidden gems, did not disappoint. Emily and I set out with a sense of excitement, ready to explore the iconic bends and ancient pathways that define this remarkable corner of Morocco. Leaving behind the familiar comforts of our temporary lodging, we plunged headfirst into the heart of the valley, eager to uncover its secrets.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe restaurant Des Amis. Fuelled by strong coffee and traditional Moroccan fare, we set off towards the famed Tisderine bends. The drive itself was an experience, the road snaking its way through the valley floor, offering glimpses of kasbahs clinging to hillsides and lush oases contrasting with the arid landscape. The temperature was pleasant, hovering in the mid-60s, a welcome change from the cooler evenings. I was glad I'd packed layers, though I did regret forgetting my sunhat, a rookie mistake for an Aussie like me. Emily, ever the pragmatist, reminded me that we could probably find one at a local shop.

Reaching the Tisderine bends was like stepping into a postcard. The road, a ribbon of asphalt, wound its way through a narrow gorge, each hairpin turn revealing a more breathtaking vista than the last. We pulled over at a viewpoint, cameras in hand, attempting to capture the sheer scale and drama of the scene. It's moments like these that remind me why I love photography; trying to freeze a fleeting moment of beauty and share it with the world. Emily, with her keen eye for detail, focused on the textures of the rock formations, the play of light and shadow, while I attempted to capture the panoramic sweep of the valley.


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

Sometimes, the most scenic roads in life are the detours you didn't mean to take.

After soaking in the views at Tisderine, we decided to explore the Chemin du Canyon, a trail that promised a closer look at the valley's geological wonders. The hike was moderate, the path winding along the Dades River, past towering cliffs and through narrow passages. The rock formations were incredible, sculpted by centuries of wind and water erosion into bizarre and fantastical shapes. I couldn't help but imagine what this area would have looked like millions of years ago, when it was believed to be at the bottom of the ocean. It's humbling to stand in such a place, to feel the weight of history and the power of nature.


Explore the enchanting landscapes and thrilling adventures at Chemin du Canyon, a quintessential Moroccan tourist attraction for nature lovers.
Along the way, we encountered a few local Berber people, their faces weathered by the sun and wind, their eyes filled with a quiet dignity. We exchanged greetings, a few words in broken French and Arabic, a shared smile. It's these small human connections that often leave the biggest impression on me when I travel. I was reminded of a similar encounter I had years ago while hiking in the Flinders Ranges back in Australia. The shared cup of tea with a local farmer, the stories exchanged, the sense of camaraderie despite the language barrier.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurant Chez Aïcha Timlalt, a charming little spot with a terrace overlooking the valley. The food was simple but delicious, a tagine of chicken and vegetables, cooked with fragrant spices and served with warm, crusty bread. Emily, ever the history buff, peppered Aïcha with questions about the local Berber culture, the history of the valley, the traditional way of life. Aïcha, a warm and gracious woman, was happy to share her knowledge, her words painting a vivid picture of life in this remote corner of Morocco. I learned that the Dades River gets most of its strength from rainfall between November and March.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Chez Aïcha Timlalt in Boumalne Dades' breathtaking Dades Gorge.
After lunch, we made a stop at Queen Shop By Ami. Though I'm not much of a shopper, Emily was keen to pick up a few souvenirs. The shop was a treasure trove of local crafts, from handwoven carpets to intricately carved wooden boxes. Emily eventually settled on a beautiful silver necklace, a reminder of our time in the Dades Valley. I found a small, hand-carved didgeridoo, a nod to my Australian roots. Perhaps I'll learn to play it one day, a reminder of this Moroccan adventure.


Explore the latest trends in fashionable accessories at Queen Shop By Ami in Sale, Morocco, where style meets affordability.
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the valley, we made our way back to Boumalne Dades. For dinner, we chose Hôtel - Restaurant BOUGAFER. The restaurant was bustling with activity, a mix of tourists and locals, the air filled with the aroma of grilled meats and tagines. I decided on a hearty couscous, while Emily opted for a vegetarian tagine. The food was satisfying, the atmosphere lively, a perfect end to a day of exploration. We enjoyed a flavorful tagine and coffee.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine and warm hospitality at Hôtel - Restaurant BOUGAFER in Boumalne Dadès.
Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Entrée du canyon and the Canyon des doigts de singe. The Dades Valley continues to surprise and delight, and I can't wait to see what wonders await us tomorrow. I'm particularly looking forward to photographing the unique rock formations of the Canyon des doigts de singe, hoping to capture their surreal beauty in the golden light of the morning. And maybe, just maybe, I'll find that sunhat I so desperately need. Before heading back to our lodging for the night, we made sure to swing by Snack Adrar for a nightcap.

As I sit here now, writing this entry, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible experience. The Dades Valley has a way of getting under your skin, of captivating your senses, of reminding you of the beauty and wonder that exists in the world. It's a place that challenges you, inspires you, and leaves you with memories that will last a lifetime. And as I drift off to sleep, I can't help but wonder what other hidden treasures await us on this Moroccan adventure. I think I'll sleep well tonight, knowing that tomorrow holds even more promise.