Guide to the Dades Gorges Morocco
Location of the Dades Gorges
The Dades Gorges in Morocco are located more to the west of the Tora Gorges. They show the incredible beauty of southern Morocco. The dwellings blend into the rock, the views are breathtaking, the geological formations fascinating and the colors hardly believable.
The Valley of Dades Gorges
The valley of the Dades Gorges, 25 km long, is one of the most interesting in southern Morocco. The scenery is beautiful, the houses blend into the rocks, and the Dades River flows slowly from high limestone plateaus.
Dades Palm Grove
This area of the Moroccan desert is famous for its landscapes and for the hospitality of its inhabitants, the Berbers. The rocky group called ‘The fingers of the monkeys’ or ‘brain of the Atlas’ stands out among its landscapes. Also, In the surroundings of the Gorges, you will be surprised by its kasbahs and the picturesque views that make up the landscape of the High Atlas. Tissadrine is a deep ravine of many meters of unevenness in which the road winds to connect with the valley of Msemrir.
Dades Valley’s Spectacular Landscapes
A collection of landscapes marked by red dye is the predominant tone in the area of the Dades Gorge. A scenic route, between cliffs, with the backdrop of snow-capped mountains in the distance, and passing through villages and historic buildings. Moreover, The route of the Gorge is located in the High Atlas. Therefore, it’s famous for its landscapes and inhabitants, the Berbers, especially the kasbahs, or fortified citadels, located between winding roads.
The Curiosities of the Dades Valley
One of the most popular and visited sites is that of the cliffs of Tamlalt, also called “monkey fingers,” because of its formidable natural sculpture.
The Dades Valley is full of magical places that offer pretexts for many excursions, along the canyons and the Oued, for lovers of nature that have preserved its wild beauty. In the evening, the brightness and colors will make you forget the fatigue of several hours of walking.
What are Dades Gorges?
Dades Gorges are a series of stunning rock formations and cliffs in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains.
How far are Dades Gorges from Marrakech?
Dades Gorges are approximately 345 km southeast of Marrakech, and the journey takes around 5 hours by car.
Can you hike in Dades Gorges?
The Gorges offer hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty levels. The trails are perfect for nature lovers who want to explore the region’s stunning landscapes.
When is the best time to visit Dades Canyon?
The best time to visit Gorges is from March to May and from September to November when the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are at their best.
How tall are the cliffs in Dades Canyon?
The cliffs in the Gorges range from 200 to 500 meters in height.
What is the main activity to do in the Gorges?
The main activity in Dades Gorges is hiking, but visitors can also enjoy rock climbing, mountain biking, and horse riding.
Are there any accommodations in the Gorges?
Several accommodations are available in the Gorges, including guesthouses, hotels, and traditional Berber campsites.
Can you visit the Gorges on a day trip?
Yes, it’s possible to visit the Gorges on a day trip from nearby cities like Ouarzazate or Tinghir, but it’s recommended to spend at least one night in the area to appreciate its beauty fully.
What is the food like in Dades Gorges?
The food in the Gorges is delicious and consists of traditional Moroccan dishes like tagines, couscous, and harira soup. Visitors can also enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables grown in the region.
Are there any nearby attractions to visit in Dades Gorges?
Several nearby attractions in the Gorges include the Todgha Gorges, the Valley of the Roses, and the fortified village of Ait Ben Haddou.