Family Adventure in Morocco's Dades Valley

First Impressions of Dades Valley

Our Moroccan adventure has officially begun! After a long flight from Berlin to Marrakesh and then a scenic drive, we finally arrived in the Dades Valley. The dramatic landscapes are even more stunning in person, and I couldn't wait to explore. Mei, Lina, and I were all excited to dive into the Berber culture and capture the beauty of this unique region.

Our first day was packed with incredible sights and delicious food. We started our morning with breakfast at CAFE RESTAURANT AIT SEDRAT. The traditional Moroccan breakfast was a delightful introduction to the local cuisine. The fresh bread, olives, and mint tea set the perfect tone for our explorations. Lina especially loved the Berber omelet, and Mei enjoyed the strong, sweet tea. It's amazing how a simple meal can be so satisfying and culturally enriching.

After breakfast, we headed to Pattes Des Singes, or “Monkey Fingers”. The rock formations were truly remarkable, resembling a monkey's hand reaching out from the earth. We spent a good hour hiking around, taking photos, and marveling at the geological wonders. Lina was fascinated by the shapes and kept pointing out new “fingers” she could spot. It was a fun, lighthearted start to our adventure, and the views were simply breathtaking. The area is known for its unique rock formations that resemble monkey fingers. These formations are located near the village of Tamellalt. The hike offers an exciting combination of dramatic landscapes, towering red rock canyons, and narrow gorges, making it a popular destination for adventurous travellers and nature lovers.


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

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are the ones that take you off the beaten path and immerse you in the beauty of the natural world.

Next on our list was the Dades panoramic view. The drive up was an adventure in itself, with winding roads offering glimpses of the valley below. Once we reached the top, the view was absolutely worth it. The vast expanse of the Dades Valley unfolded before us, with its ribbon of green palm trees and the rugged Atlas Mountains in the distance. I took dozens of photos, trying to capture the sheer scale and beauty of the landscape. Mei and Lina simply stood in awe, soaking it all in. It was a moment of shared wonder that I know we'll cherish forever. The Dades Valley is often referred to as the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs. These ancient structures stand as silent witnesses to the area's long history and the resilience of its Berber inhabitants.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Dades Panoramic View, where mountains and valleys create an unforgettable experience in Morocco.
For lunch, we stopped at Café Restaurant zinyou sud. This little gem offered stunning views of the valley along with delicious tagines and grilled meats. The tagine was flavorful and comforting, and the grilled meats were perfectly seasoned. Lina enjoyed her first taste of Moroccan couscous, and I savored every bite of my lamb tagine. The restaurant provided a perfect spot to relax and refuel before continuing our journey. The Dades Gorges form the heart of the valley, carved by the Dades River through the High Atlas Mountains. These towering cliffs reach heights of up to 500 meters, creating a breathtaking canyon. The gorges feature unique rock formations known as “Monkey Fingers,” where erosion has sculpted finger-like structures from the red sandstone. The surrounding Atlas Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop, with snow-capped peaks visible in the distance.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Restaurant Zinyou Sud in Boumalne Dades - where every meal is a celebration of local culture.

After lunch, we decided to do a bit of shopping at accessoires dades abd elhamid. I was hoping to find some unique souvenirs and gifts for friends back in Berlin. The shop was filled with colorful textiles, intricate jewelry, and handcrafted goods. Mei and Lina had fun bargaining with the shopkeeper, and we ended up with a beautiful Berber carpet and some silver jewelry. It was a great way to support the local economy and bring a piece of Morocco back home with us.


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

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Auberge Chez Pierre for dinner. This charming guesthouse is nestled in the heart of the Dades Gorges and is known for its innovative cuisine. The setting was magical, with the restaurant overlooking the valley and the stars beginning to twinkle above. The food was a fusion of European and Moroccan flavors, and every dish was a work of art. We enjoyed a leisurely meal, savoring the flavors and reflecting on our first day in Morocco. The service was impeccable, and the staff made us feel like royalty. Auberge Chez Pierre welcomes you to the tranquil beauty of the High Atlas region. Set just below the Dades Gorge, this hotel is a peaceful oasis amid the red and ochre landscapes that characterize the area. Its traditional architecture blends seamlessly with the terraced gardens and fruit trees that surround it. You'll be conveniently located on the route from Marrakesh to the Merzouga dunes, putting you within easy reach of the Valley of the Roses and the Todhra Gorge.


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

Tonight, as I sit here writing, I can't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to share this experience with my family. Morocco has already captured our hearts, and I know that the next few days will be filled with even more unforgettable moments. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Monkey Fingers Canyon and Chemin du Canyon. I’m particularly excited about the Monkey Fingers hike that I read about – apparently it's a moderate hike with stunning views of unique rock formations. We’ll be having breakfast at Café-restaurant Timzzillite Chez Mohamed, lunch at Restaurant Fatima Berber gorges du dades, and dinner at Restaurant Dar Ahlam Dades. We might even check out CAFE RESTAURANT ROOFTOP ATLAS DADES for a drink. I’m also looking forward to learning more about the local geology and history.

As I reflect on our first day, I am reminded of why I started this travel blog in the first place. It's about sharing these incredible experiences with others, inspiring them to step outside their comfort zones, and discover the beauty and wonder of the world. And who knows, maybe our adventures will inspire others to embark on their own journeys of discovery. And perhaps they too will find themselves captivated by the magic of Morocco.