Exploring the Majestic Dades Valley

A Day of Geological Wonders in Dades Valley

Today was all about immersing myself in the raw, untamed beauty of the Dades Valley. I set out early, eager to explore the unique rock formations and cultural treasures that this region has to offer. The landscape here is unlike anything I've ever seen, a testament to the powerful forces of nature and the enduring spirit of the Berber people.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Café Restaurant ANBD. I enjoyed some traditional Moroccan pancakes with honey and a strong cup of coffee, fueling up for a day of exploration. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and I chatted with some locals about the best routes to take to see the Monkey Paw Mountains. They were incredibly friendly and offered some great tips, as Moroccans usually do. I made a mental note to bring Aaliyah here someday; she'd love the warm hospitality and delicious food.


Explore the surreal landscapes of the Monkey Paw Mountains, a breathtaking destination for hikers and nature lovers in Morocco's stunning outdoors.

First stop: the legendary Monkey Paw Mountains. As I approached, the landscape transformed into a surreal panorama of towering rock formations that indeed resembled giant monkey paws reaching towards the sky. I parked my car and spent a good hour simply wandering around, taking photos from every possible angle. The vibrant colors of the rocks, ranging from deep reds to ochre yellows, were intensified by the morning sun. Hiking trails wound through the area, offering different perspectives of the formations. I chose a moderate path that led me to a higher vantage point, rewarded with panoramic views of the valley below.

The Dades Valley is a testament to the enduring beauty and power of nature, a place where the landscape tells a story of geological wonder and cultural resilience.

After soaking in the majesty of the Monkey Paw Mountains, I drove towards Azrou n itbirn. This natural attraction offered a different kind of beauty, with its unique rock formations and serene atmosphere. I parked the car and took a leisurely walk around the area, admiring the intricate patterns carved into the rocks by centuries of wind and water erosion. The tranquility of the place was striking; I found myself reflecting on the simple, unhurried pace of life in the Dades Valley. I imagined Aaliyah sketching these landscapes; her artistic eye would find endless inspiration here.


Explore Azrou n Itbirn, a captivating tourist attraction in Boumalne Dades, where stunning landscapes meet rich Moroccan culture.

Lunch was a delightful affair at Snack Adrar. This charming eatery is known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine. I decided to try their tagine, a slow-cooked stew of meat and vegetables, infused with aromatic spices. It was served in a traditional earthenware pot and tasted absolutely divine. The staff were incredibly welcoming, making me feel right at home. While enjoying my meal, I chatted with a fellow traveler from France who was equally captivated by the beauty of the Dades Valley. We exchanged stories and travel tips, bonding over our shared love for exploration.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Snack Adrar in Boumalne Dades – where every meal tells a story.

With renewed energy, I set off to explore the Labyrinth kasbah Dades. This ancient fortress was a maze of winding alleyways and crumbling walls, each corner revealing a glimpse into the region's rich history. I spent hours wandering through the labyrinth, imagining what life must have been like within these walls centuries ago. The kasbah offered stunning views of the surrounding valley, a reminder of its strategic importance in protecting the region.


Experience the stunning beauty and rich culture of Morocco at Labyrinth Kasbah Dades, a unique hotel in the heart of Dades Valley.

Before heading back, I made a quick stop at accessoires dades abd elhamid. This shop was a treasure trove of local crafts and souvenirs. I picked up a beautiful Berber rug for our living room in Kelowna, a reminder of my time in the Dades Valley. I also found a small, intricately carved wooden box that I knew Aaliyah would adore.


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

As the sun began to set, I made my way to auberge restaurant oued dades for dinner. This charming restaurant offered a cozy atmosphere and a menu filled with traditional Moroccan dishes. I enjoyed a delicious meal of couscous with vegetables and a glass of local wine. The perfect end to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine and warm hospitality at Auberge Restaurant Oued Dades in beautiful Boumalne Dades.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Dar Blues, Maison D'hôtes Restaurant Chez L'habitant Amazigh, and Kefroun (turtle's back). I'm also looking forward to trying out some new restaurants, including Kasbah planéte bleue dades for breakfast, Café Restaurant zinyou sud for lunch, and Auberge Chez Pierre for dinner. And maybe, just maybe, I'll find some time to relax at Snack Asderm.

Reflecting on today's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore such a remarkable place. The Dades Valley has a way of capturing your heart, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime. As I prepare for another day of exploration, I can't help but feel excited about what tomorrow will bring. I also realize I forgot to buy sunscreen before leaving Kelowna, which was one of the trip essentials I forgot to pack. I´ll make sure to buy some tomorrow.

The warm breeze of the desert night is calling me to sleep now. Good night, world!