Exploring the Enchanting Dades Valley: A Solo Adventure

Whispers of the Valley

Today was a day of pure sensory overload, in the best possible way. The Dades Valley has a way of grabbing you by the soul and shaking you awake with its raw beauty. From the towering gorges to the whimsical rock formations, every corner turned revealed a new vista that demanded to be photographed, painted, and most importantly, remembered. It's days like these that remind me why I traded the predictable comfort of my Berlin apartment for the open road.

My morning began with a hearty breakfast at Café Restaurant zinyou sud. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast, complete with mint tea, which was the perfect fuel for the day’s adventures. I really enjoyed the Moroccan mint tea. It was a delightful start before venturing into the heart of the Dades Valley.

My first stop was the famed Monkey Fingers Canyon. As I approached, the landscape transformed into a surreal playground of rock. The rock formations jutted out of the earth like gnarled fingers reaching for the sky, an apt description that doesn't quite capture the otherworldly feel of the place. I parked the car and started my hike, eager to explore this geological oddity.


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

The Dades Valley is a masterclass in nature's artistry, where wind and water have sculpted a landscape that ignites the imagination.

The hike through the canyon was nothing short of magical. The narrow passage snaked between towering rock walls, sometimes forcing me to duck and scramble over boulders. I felt like an explorer in a lost world, each step revealing a new perspective on the bizarre formations. I even had to climb a small tree at one point to continue my path ! It was an unexpected challenge, but one that added to the thrill of the adventure. I can see why some people consider this the most beautiful hike in Morocco.
Emerging from the canyon, I decided to take a slightly longer loop back to the car, a decision I didn't regret. The trail led me through a wide mountain landscape and a dry riverbed, offering panoramic views of the valley. The solitude was broken only by the occasional goat herder, a reminder of the simple, timeless way of life that persists in this region. I paused to take it all in, the vastness of the landscape dwarfing any concerns I might have carried with me from Berlin.
After the Monkey Fingers, I set my sights on the Gorges du Dadès. The drive itself was an experience, the road winding along the Dades River, with towering cliffs rising on either side. The scale of the gorges is truly impressive, the rock faces reaching up to 500 meters in some places. I stopped at several viewpoints along the way, each offering a unique perspective on this natural wonder.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Gorges du Dadès, a premier hiking destination in Morocco's stunning natural environment.
For lunch, I stopped at the Canyon Dades Restaurant, which offered stunning views of the valley. The food was delicious, and the setting was perfect for a midday break. I savored a tagine, the flavors of Morocco dancing on my tongue as I gazed out at the majestic landscape. It’s little moments like these that make traveling solo so rewarding – the freedom to linger, to soak it all in, without the need to compromise or rush.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Canyon Dades Restaurant with stunning canyon views and warm hospitality in Boumalne Dades.
In the late afternoon, I decided to treat myself to a drink at Ayour cafe restaurant. It was the perfect spot to unwind after a day of hiking and driving. I sat on the terrace, sipping mint tea and watching the sun dip behind the mountains, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. The air was cool and crisp, a welcome change from the heat of the day. I thought about Lena and Sofia back in Berlin, wondering what they were doing at that moment. I miss them dearly, but I know this trip is something I need to do for myself.


Discover the authentic flavors of Morocco at Ayour Cafe Restaurant, where culinary traditions meet a welcoming atmosphere in Boumalne Dades.
As evening approached, I made my way to Chez Pierre for dinner. This place came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. The restaurant clings to the rocky face of the Dades Gorge, offering breathtaking views. The French-Moroccan cuisine was exquisite, a fusion of flavors that delighted my palate. I opted for the set evening menu, which included delicacies like cheese grilled with honey and apples, and briouates with mint leaves. The service was impeccable, and the ambiance was both elegant and inviting. It was the perfect end to a perfect day. I can see why it is considered a wonderful place to eat and stay.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Chez Pierre in Boumalne Dades - where every dish tells a story.
Looking ahead to tomorrow, I plan to explore the Tisderine bends and Kefroun (turtle's back). I'm also hoping to do a little shopping at ORINO SHOP. I'm excited to see what other wonders this valley holds.
Back at my guesthouse, I sit on the terrace, the silence broken only by the distant call of a shepherd. The stars are out in full force, a dazzling display that reminds me of the vastness of the universe and my small place within it. It’s moments like these that make all the challenges of travel worthwhile – the sense of connection, the feeling of being alive, the simple joy of witnessing beauty in its purest form.
Before drifting off to sleep, I make a note in my travel journal: Remember this day. Remember this feeling. Remember the Dades Valley.