Exploring the Majestic Dades Valley with Friends

Sculpted by Time: A Day Among Giants

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the raw, untamed beauty of the Dades Valley. We set out early, eager to witness the geological wonders that this corner of Morocco holds. It's days like these that remind me why I traded my wellington boots in Heidelberg for hiking boots and a travel journal – the sheer awe of nature is simply irresistible.

Our first stop was the Gorge Miguirne. Cresting over a small pass, about 14 kilometers from Boumalne, this hidden gem joins the Dadès Gorge from the south. The gorge offered a fine half-day hike amid its springs, rock pools and stunning rock formations, sculpted by time and the elements. It was a relatively easy trek, allowing us to soak in the serene atmosphere. I found myself reflecting on the power of water; how something so gentle could carve such impressive formations over millennia. The light played tricks on the rocks, creating shadows that danced and shifted with the sun's movement. The springs were a welcome sight, and I made sure to fill up my reusable water bottle, ever the conscious traveler.


Explore the breathtaking Gorges of Dadès, a stunning hiking area in Morocco known for its dramatic landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

For breakfast, we stopped at Snack Adrar. The simple, hearty meal of traditional Moroccan fare set us up perfectly for the day's adventures.


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

The earth has music for those who listen.

Next on our itinerary was the Canyon des doigts de singe, or Monkey Fingers Canyon. After hearing so much about it, I was eager to see these peculiar rock formations for myself. The canyon is located near the village of Tamlalt, along the Dades River, a few kilometers from Boumalne Dades. The name Monkey Fingers comes from the unique rock formations that resemble long, rounded fingers sticking up from the ground. These formations are shaped by wind erosion, giving them their unusual appearance. It was easy to see how the canyon got its name; the rock formations jutted out from the landscape like a giant's hand reaching towards the sky. The girls were in their element, clambering over rocks and posing for photos, while Klaus, ever the architect, was fascinated by the geological processes that had created such a unique landscape.


Experience the natural beauty of Canyon des Doigts de Singe, a breathtaking attraction in Ait Ouglif, Morocco, perfect for adventure and photography.

The hike through the Monkey Fingers was an adventure in itself. The narrow canyon had rock walls towering over us on both sides. Every so often, we had to duck under a rock or scramble over one. There was even a spot where we had to climb a tree to continue. The canyon twisted and turned, sometimes narrowing to just 500mm wide. The canyon is usually dry, but it had rained heavily in the days before our visit, and we had to wade through some water. It was refreshing on our feet.

We enjoyed lunch at Auberge La Vallée des Figues. Refueled, we decided to take a slightly larger loop, which showcased more of the area's diversity. We descended through beautiful, wide mountain landscapes and dry riverbeds.


Discover the enchanting beauty of Dades Gorge at Auberge La Vallée des Figues, a perfect blend of comfort and authentic Moroccan hospitality.

Before heading back, we stopped at BELLE VUE DADES, a shop offering local crafts. I couldn't resist picking up a few small souvenirs – a hand-painted ceramic bowl and some locally produced argan oil. Supporting local artisans is something I always try to do when traveling; it's a small way of giving back to the communities that welcome us.


Discover the serene beauty of Boumalne Dadès at Belle Vue Dades, your perfect hotel retreat in the heart of the Dades Valley.

For dinner, we enjoyed a hearty meal at Restaurant Chez Aïcha Timlalt. I savored the rich flavors of a traditional tagine, reflecting on the day's adventures. It's amazing how food can encapsulate the essence of a place, and this tagine was a perfect representation of the Dades Valley – robust, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Chez Aïcha Timlalt in Boumalne Dades' breathtaking Dades Gorge.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm golden glow over the valley, we made our way back to our guesthouse. The air was cool and crisp, carrying the scent of earth and distant wood fires. I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over me. Days like these are what travel is all about – discovering hidden gems, connecting with nature, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. I am so glad I came to explore the Dades Valley with my friends.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Citadelle Dades and Labyrinth kasbah Dades. I'm particularly excited about exploring the labyrinthine kasbah; I've always been fascinated by the architecture and history of these ancient structures. We'll have breakfast at Dar Ahlam Dades hotel, lunch at Snack Asderm, and dinner at Café Achaf. We might stop by Café restaurant Ait Moujan for a drink. It promises to be another day filled with exploration and discovery.

As I sit here now, penning these thoughts under the soft glow of a bedside lamp, I can't help but feel grateful for this journey. The Dades Valley has a way of capturing your heart, of reminding you of the simple joys in life. It's a place where time seems to slow down, where the beauty of nature takes center stage, and where the warmth of the local people makes you feel like you're home. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, but for now, I'll drift off to sleep with the sounds of the valley whispering outside my window.

And as Klaus always says, Man muss die Feste feiern, wie sie fallen! (You have to celebrate the festivals as they come!). Even though it is not a festival today, it is a good reminder to enjoy the small things in life.

It’s been an unforgettable day, and I can’t wait to share more of our Moroccan adventure with you all!