Family Adventure in Morocco's Dades Valley

Into the Heart of the Dades Gorge

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the raw, untamed beauty of the Dades Valley. After a comfortable night, we were eager to explore the famed canyons and experience the local Berber culture. It's amazing how quickly you adapt to the pace of life here, trading the hustle of Berlin for the serene landscapes of Morocco.

Our day started with a hearty Moroccan breakfast at Café-restaurant Timzzillite Chez Mohamed. The views from the café were simply breathtaking, offering a panoramic vista of the Dades Gorge. I enjoyed a traditional tagine while Mei and Lina opted for some fresh fruit and yogurt. The mint tea was, of course, a must – sweet, refreshing, and the perfect start to a day of adventure.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Café-Restaurant Timzzillite Chez Mohamed, where stunning views meet delightful flavors.

Fuelled up, we set off to explore the Monkey Fingers Canyon. The drive itself was an experience, with winding roads offering stunning views at every turn. The rock formations, resembling a monkey's hand reaching towards the sky, were truly a sight to behold. We parked near the village of Tamlalt and began our hike into the canyon.


Discover the enchanting Monkey Fingers Canyon in the Gorges du Dadès, where stunning rock formations and rich Moroccan culture await your exploration.

The hike through the Monkey Fingers was an adventure in itself. The narrow canyon walls towered above us, creating a sense of being enveloped by nature. There were moments where we had to scramble over rocks and duck under low-hanging formations, which Lina absolutely loved. The light filtering through the narrow openings created a magical atmosphere, perfect for some photography. I made sure to capture the unique rock formations and the joy on Lina's face as she explored every nook and cranny. I was glad I had brought my camera, even though I had forgotten the portable power bank back at our guesthouse.

Sometimes, the most rewarding journeys are those that take you off the beaten path and immerse you in the heart of nature's wonders.

After the Monkey Fingers, we decided to explore the Chemin du Canyon. This path offered a different perspective of the Dades Gorge, with wider views and more open spaces. We took our time, soaking in the scenery and enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. Lina collected some interesting stones and leaves, adding to her growing collection of travel mementos.


Explore the enchanting landscapes and thrilling adventures at Chemin du Canyon, a quintessential Moroccan tourist attraction for nature lovers.

Lunch was at Restaurant Fatima Berber gorges du dades, a charming spot known for its authentic Berber cuisine. We tried their signature tajine, which was absolutely delicious – flavorful, tender, and cooked to perfection. Mei enjoyed a vegetarian couscous, while Lina devoured a plate of grilled chicken. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home.


Experience exquisite Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Fatima Berber in Dades Gorges - home to the best tajine in Morocco.

In the late afternoon, we decided to relax and enjoy the views from CAFE RESTAURANT ROOFTOP ATLAS DADES. We sipped on some more mint tea and enjoyed the stunning sunset over the Atlas Mountains. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking and exploring. Lina enjoyed drawing in her travel journal, capturing her favorite moments from the day.


Experience the breathtaking views and delicious Moroccan cuisine at Cafe Restaurant Atlas Dades, your rooftop dining destination in Boumalne Dades.

For dinner, we opted for Restaurant Dar Ahlam Dades, known for its exquisite Moroccan dishes and elegant ambiance. The restaurant was beautifully decorated, with traditional Berber touches and a warm, inviting atmosphere. We enjoyed a multi-course meal, sampling a variety of local specialties. The flavors were rich and complex, a true celebration of Moroccan cuisine.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Dar Ahlam Dades, where stunning landscapes meet exquisite cuisine.

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our experiences. The Dades Valley had exceeded all our expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion. I'm so grateful to be able to share these moments with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. It's a far cry from my days as a tech consultant in Singapore, but I wouldn't trade it for anything.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Azrou n itbirn and Dadès Vallei, hoping to discover more hidden gems in this captivating region. I'm particularly looking forward to visiting DADES VERT, a local shop, to pick up some souvenirs and support the local community. I'm also hoping to improve my photography skills, capturing even more of the valley's stunning landscapes. Mei is excited to learn more about Berber culture, and Lina is eager for more outdoor adventures. We'll start our day with breakfast at Cafe restaurant Des Amis, followed by lunch at Auberge Chez Pierre. For dinner, we're planning to dine at kasbah Amlal.

Before drifting off to sleep, I thought about how different this trip is from our usual city breaks. The Dades Valley has a way of stripping away the superficial and connecting you with something deeper – the land, the culture, and the people. It's a reminder that the most valuable experiences are often found in the simplest of things.

Now, time to rest up for another day of exploration. Goodnight from the heart of Morocco!