Solo Eco-Adventure in Morocco's Dades Valley

A Valley of Wonders

Today was a day of geological marvels and heartwarming encounters in the Dades Valley. The raw beauty of the landscape, combined with the genuine hospitality of the Berber people, made for an unforgettable experience. It's days like these that remind me why I traded my predictable life in Hamburg for the open road. Each twist and turn in the valley revealed a new, breathtaking vista, a new story etched in stone and in the smiles of the locals.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at L’habitat Amazigh. I was eager to fuel up before embarking on today's adventure. The traditional Berber design created a warm and inviting atmosphere. I enjoyed a simple breakfast of bread, olives, and mint tea, which set the tone for a day of immersion in local culture.


Discover rich Amazigh culture through authentic cuisine at L’habitat Amazigh—your gateway to Morocco’s culinary heritage.

With a full stomach and a sense of excitement, I set off to the Monkey Fingers viewpoint. The drive itself was an experience, as the road wound through the valley, offering panoramic views of the Dades River and the kasbahs perched on the hillsides. It's easy to see why this area is known as the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs. The landscape was rugged and dramatic, the air crisp and clean, a welcome change from the urban air of Hamburg.


Discover the stunning views and unique rock formations at Monkey Finger Viewpoint, a must-see destination for nature lovers in Morocco.

Arriving at the Monkey Fingers, I was struck by the sheer uniqueness of the rock formations. Erosion has sculpted the sandstone cliffs into bizarre, rounded shapes that resemble a primate's fingers reaching towards the sky. I spent a good hour simply marveling at nature's artistry, snapping photos from every angle. The play of light and shadow on the rocks created a mesmerizing effect, and I felt a sense of awe at the power of time and the elements.

I decided to take a hike around the Monkey Fingers, following one of the trails that wind through the rocks. The trail led me through narrow passages and up rocky slopes, offering hidden viewpoints and close-up encounters with the formations. I even found a spot where I had to climb a tree to continue, adding an element of adventure to the hike. Despite the rocky terrain, the hike wasn't too strenuous, and I enjoyed the solitude and the chance to connect with nature.

The Dades Valley is a place where the landscape tells a story, and the people share it with open hearts.

After the Monkey Fingers, I drove further into the Dades Gorge, eager to see Azrou n itbirn. I must admit, finding Azrou n itbirn was a bit of a challenge. It's not as well-marked or as widely known as the Monkey Fingers, but that added to its appeal. After a bit of searching and asking for directions from some local children, I finally found it. And it was well worth the effort.


Explore Azrou n Itbirn, a captivating tourist attraction in Boumalne Dades, where stunning landscapes meet rich Moroccan culture.

Azrou n itbirn, or the Birds Rock, is a towering rock formation that offers stunning panoramic views of the Dades Valley. The climb to the top was a bit steep, but the reward was a breathtaking vista of the valley below, with its winding river, lush palm groves, and traditional Berber villages. I spent some time simply soaking in the view, feeling grateful for the opportunity to witness such natural beauty.

For lunch, I stopped at Cafe restaurant Oussikis in Boumalne Dades. This charming establishment is known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and its welcoming atmosphere. I ordered a tagine, a traditional Moroccan stew cooked in a clay pot, and it was absolutely delicious. The flavors were rich and complex, and the meat was tender and succulent. The staff were incredibly friendly and eager to share insights about the local area.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Cafe Restaurant Oussikis in Boumalne Dades, where every dish tells a story.

In the late afternoon, I decided to indulge in a bit of local culture at Café restaurant ASANFOU ATBIR. I enjoyed a glass of mint tea, a staple in Moroccan culture, while watching the locals go about their daily lives. Although the spot is permanently closed the memories will last forever. It was a great opportunity to simply relax and soak in the atmosphere.


Discover the flavors of Morocco at Café Restaurant ASANFOU ATBIR in Boumalne Dades, where local cuisine meets breathtaking scenery.

As the sun began to set, I made my way to Auberge Chez Pierre for dinner. This charming auberge is nestled just below the Dades Gorge and offers a peaceful oasis amidst the rugged landscape. The auberge is known for its innovative cuisine that fuses European and Moroccan flavors, using local produce to create a refreshing alternative to traditional dishes. I enjoyed a delicious meal of grilled meats and vegetables, accompanied by a glass of local wine.


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

The evening was spent chatting with other travelers and locals, sharing stories and experiences. I met a fellow beekeeper from France, and we spent hours discussing the challenges and rewards of our shared profession. It's moments like these that make traveling so enriching, the chance to connect with people from all walks of life and learn from their perspectives.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I'm excited about the prospect of hiking with Abdo and exploring the Cascade. I've heard that Abdo is a fantastic guide who knows the area intimately, and I'm eager to learn more about the local flora and fauna. I'm also looking forward to visiting the Cascade, a hidden waterfall that's said to be a true oasis in the desert. Before that I will have breakfast at Café Achaf. I am also planning to stop by Dar Rihana Dades to pick up some souvenirs for my family and friends back in Hamburg.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this incredible region. The Dades Valley is a place of stark beauty and warm hospitality, a place where the landscape tells a story, and the people share it with open hearts. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Perhaps I will even see monkeys !

Good night from the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs!