Exploring the Majestic Dades Valley: A Journey with Friends

A Day of Exploration in Dadès Gorges

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the dramatic landscapes of the Dadès Gorges. After several days of camping, the thought of exploring ancient kasbahs and indulging in local cuisine was incredibly appealing. The promise of stunning views and cultural treasures made it a day I was eagerly anticipating.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Dadès Gorges, a stunning ravine in Morocco with vibrant landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Kasbah planète bleue dades. The morning air was crisp, and the views from the kasbah were simply breathtaking. Sipping on traditional mint tea while enjoying a spread of local pastries and fresh fruit was the perfect way to fuel up for our adventures. The friendly staff and warm atmosphere made it a memorable start to the day. It reminded me of the cozy cafes Klara and I used to frequent in Potsdam, a world away but with the same welcoming vibe.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Kasbah Planète Bleue Dades amidst stunning landscapes in Boumalne Dades.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off to explore the Dadès Gorges. The drive itself was an experience, with winding roads carving through the rugged terrain. The towering cliffs and deep canyons were a sight to behold, and I couldn't resist stopping every few kilometers to capture the stunning vistas with my camera. I felt a similar sense of awe as when I first saw the Andes Mountains back in Chile, a reminder of nature's grandeur. The landscape here is truly elemental, raw, and beautiful.

Our first major stop was the Labyrinth kasbah Dades, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the valley. This ancient kasbah was like stepping back in time. Wandering through its narrow corridors and intricately decorated rooms, I couldn't help but marvel at the craftsmanship and history embedded in its walls. The owner, Mehdi, greeted us with exceptional hospitality, making us feel at home from the moment we arrived. He shared stories of the kasbah's past and offered insights into Berber culture, enriching our experience. Mateo would have loved exploring this place; it’s like a real-life maze.


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

To truly experience a place, you must allow yourself to get lost in its history and culture.

For lunch, we stopped at Isabel - Chez Moha. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to savor the flavors of Moroccan cuisine. I opted for a tagine, a traditional Berber stew cooked in a clay pot. The aroma alone was enough to make my mouth water, and the taste was even better. The tender meat, flavorful vegetables, and fragrant spices created a symphony of flavors that danced on my palate. Mohamed was very kind and made us feel very welcome. As someone who enjoys cooking traditional Chilean dishes, I always appreciate experiencing authentic cuisine from other cultures.


Experience exquisite Moroccan cuisine with breathtaking views at Isabel - Chez Moha – a must-visit culinary destination.

After lunch, we dedicated some time to shopping at ORINO SHOP. I was on the lookout for unique souvenirs to bring back home to Klara and Mateo. The shop offered a variety of local crafts, from intricately woven carpets to handmade jewelry. I ended up purchasing a beautiful Berber rug, its vibrant colors and geometric patterns capturing the essence of the Dadès Valley. I also picked up a few small trinkets for Mateo, knowing he would appreciate the exotic treasures. I also managed to find a portable solar charger, remembering that I had forgotten sunscreen and a travel journal.


Explore the latest in technology and local culture at ORINO SHOP, Boumalne Dades' premier electronics destination for travelers.

As the afternoon wore on, we continued our exploration of the Dadès Gorges. We drove along the winding roads, marveling at the dramatic rock formations and lush oases. We stopped at several viewpoints to take in the panoramic vistas, each one more breathtaking than the last. The play of light and shadow on the canyon walls created a mesmerizing spectacle, and I felt grateful to witness such natural beauty. The Dadès Gorges are often referred to as Morocco's Grand Canyon, and I could see why.

For dinner, we chose Café restaurant Ait Moujan. This cozy restaurant offered a relaxed atmosphere and stunning views of the valley. We sat on the terrace, enjoying the cool evening breeze as we savored our meal. I opted for a traditional Moroccan salad, a refreshing mix of fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices. The flavors were bright and vibrant, a perfect complement to the stunning scenery.


Discover the culinary delights of Café Restaurant Ait Moujan, where exquisite grilled dishes meet breathtaking views in the heart of the Gorges du Dadès.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on our adventures in the Dadès Gorges. We had explored ancient kasbahs, savored local cuisine, and witnessed breathtaking landscapes. But more than that, we had connected with the local culture and gained a deeper appreciation for the beauty and resilience of the Berber people. It was a day that I would cherish for years to come.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Monkey Paw Mountains and Citadelle dades. I’ve heard that the views from the Monkey Paw Mountains are incredible, and I’m excited to explore the ancient ruins of Citadelle dades. I am looking forward to another day of adventure and discovery in this magical land. I think I might check out Café Achaf in the evening for a relaxing end to the day.

The trip has been a great opportunity to disconnect from my work as a mobile app developer and immerse myself in a completely different culture. It’s a reminder of why I love creating apps that enhance the tourism experience, connecting people with the beauty and wonder of the world. I wonder if I can incorporate some of the patterns from the Berber rug into my next app design? Perhaps Klara will have some ideas.

Even though I miss Klara and Mateo, I know that this experience will enrich my life and broaden my perspective. I am grateful for the opportunity to explore the Dadès Valley with my friends, sharing our passions and creating lasting memories. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings. I must remember to buy some sunscreen this time!

The stars are particularly bright out here in the valley. I think I'll spend a little time outside tonight enjoying the peace and quiet before heading to bed. It's moments like these that make traveling so worthwhile.