Between Ouarzazate and Tinghir
Dades Valley
The Dades Valley winds north from the main southern road into the High Atlas, amidst terraced fields, ancient kasbahs, and the eroded rock formations known locally as 'monkey fingers.' It is a common overnight stop between Ouarzazate and Merzouga.
- Access
- From Boumalne Dades, on the N10 road
- Typical stay
- One night
- Known for
- Winding road, gorges, terraced farming
- Winter
- Cold nights; occasional ice on the highest part of the road
Why visit Dades Valley
It breaks up the long journey between the Atlas and the desert with a genuinely different landscape, and offers short, easy walks through the valley between villages and orchards.
The Todra Gorge is narrower and more spectacular at a specific point. Dades is longer and more varied, with more agriculture and more places to stop.
We can include Dades Valley in one of our Morocco tours or prepare a custom trip with your dates and pace.
What to see and do
Dades Curves
A series of hairpin bends with a café-viewpoint at the top.
Rock formations near Aït Oudinar
Eroded conglomerate shapes above the road.
Valley walks
Short, flat paths between villages and irrigated plots, easy for most fitness levels.
How many days to stay
One night is standard. Two nights are suitable for those who want to do a half-day hike.
Best time to visit
Spring to see the green terraces and blossoms, autumn for stable weather. Winter nights are genuinely cold.
Getting there and around
By road, on the N10 between Ouarzazate and Tinghir; the valley road turns north at Boumalne Dades.
By vehicle along the valley road, on foot in the villages.
Travel times to nearby destinations
- Todra Gorge: To the east, via Tinghir; often combined on the same drive.
- Merzouga: To the east; usually the next stop after a night in the valley.
- Ait Ben Haddou: To the west, via Ouarzazate.
Practical tips
- Rooms in the valley may not have heating; it's worth asking in winter.
- The upper part of the road narrows: the hairpin bend viewpoint is the practical turning point for most vehicles.
Who is Dades Valley for?
Travelers who want a mountain overnight between the Atlas crossing and the desert.
Common mistakes
- Driving past at full speed and treating it only as a refueling stop.
Dades Valley: frequently asked questions
Is the winding road safe?
It is paved and used daily, but it is narrow with sharp curves. Experienced local drivers navigate it regularly.
Can you hike here?
Yes: short valley walks between villages and orchards are easy to organize and mostly flat.
Private tours including Dades Valley
Other Morocco guides
Include Dades Valley in a private itinerary
Tell us your dates and the other places you want to combine, and we will propose a realistic route.