The High Atlas Mountains of Morocco are home to two incredible natural wonders - the breathtaking Todra Gorge and the striking Dades Gorge. Over millions of years, their respective rivers have etched their way through layer upon layer of sandstone and limestone, sculpting the spectacular gorges seen today.
While both Todra and Dades encompass dramatic cliffs and winding rivers, each gorge has its own distinct character and charm, meaning both are worth visiting. I simply adore this part of Morocco - the landscapes are incredible, the hiking is sublime and it still feels a little off the beaten tourist track.
In this Ultimate Travel Guide to Todra, Dades and Skoura, I'll share all my favourite things to do in the area, as well as how you can visit too!
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The Todra Gorge features towering limestone cliffs that soar to around 300 metres in height and seemingly close in around the river as it carves a route through the mountains. Adventure enthusiasts flock here to scale the sheer rock faces and marvel at the palm oases that contrasts sharply with the stark cliffs.
Further west, the Dades Gorge captivates with its meandering river and oases dotted with date palms. Limestone and rust-hued sandstone mingle to create a fascinating array of textures and patterns in the rock. The gorge spreads out over a wide area, with its sloped cliffs extending as far as the eye can see, dotted with traditional Amazigh villages.
Both gorges offer incredible vistas, great hiking and a front-row seat to Morocco's natural magnificence. The Todra Gorge thrills with its towering canyon walls and daring climbs, while the Dades Gorge impresses with its vibrant geology and peaceful serenity. As they offer different experiences and are so close to one another, I would highly recommend visiting both.
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BEST TOURS TO DADES AND TODRA GORGES
Don't have time to read the whole article? These are my top Dades and Todra tour recommendations:
One day tours of Dades and Todra gorges
Multi-day tours of Dades and Todra gorges
Travel guide to Dades Gorge
How to visit Dades and Todra
Dades is the most westerly of the two gorges and can be accessed from the town of Boumalne Dades. Around 50 kilometres east is the town of Tinghir, which serves as the gateway to Todra Gorge. From Marrakech, it’s around 320 kilometres to Dades, with the journey taking around 5 or 6 hours. Add on another hour if you’re driving directly to Todra.
For more information about things to do in Marrakech and the best places to stay, check out my Ultimate Guide to Marrakech.
If you’re travelling from Marrakech, the road winds upwards through the Tizi n Tichka Pass where you’ll be treated to panoramic views across the Atlas Mountains. After snaking along cliffside roads, you’ll eventually descend to the film studio oasis of Ouarzazate. From here, it’s around 2 hours’ drive to Boumalne Dades.
For more information about things to do in Ouarzazate and the best places to stay, check out my Ultimate Guide to Ouarzazate.
Partway between Ouarzazate and Boumalne Dades is the oasis town of Skoura, which is where we usually stay when visiting Dades and Todra. It’s dotted with beautiful old kasbahs, many of which have been transformed into boutique hotels and guesthouses, some with refreshing swimming pools.
Scroll to the bottom of this article to learn more about Skoura, including things to do in the area and the best places to stay.
From Boumalne Dades, the Route des Gorges du Dades winds north and offers stunning views of the surrounding cliffs, meandering river and traditional villages. It is paved and in generally good condition, although the panoramic vistas can be distracting for self-drivers (so be sure to pull over regularly to really soak it all in). Similarly, there is a road extending north from Tinghir through the Todra Gorge, although this feels much narrower due to the soaring cliffs that rise alongside.
It’s possible to rent a car in Marrakech or Ouarzazate and embark on an epic road trip adventure to Dades Gorge and Todra Gorge. You can spend your days driving and hiking before overnighting in one of the welcoming guesthouses or boutique hotels that scatter the gorges.
Alternatively, you can take a bus from Marrakech or Ouarzazate and get off in Boumalne Dades or Tinghir. There are several hotels in these towns that offer 4x4 tours with experienced drivers through the gorges. It’s also possible to travel from Boumalne Dades or Tinghir into their respective gorges by share taxi (which depart once they are full) and stay in one of the family-run guesthouses here.
All-inclusive day trips and overnight tours from Marrakech and Ouarzazate are another option and take the planning off your plate. Many include a night spent under the stars in a desert camp in the Sahara (following a sunset camel hike), as well as time spent exploring both Todra and Dades gorges.
If you’re looking for a guided tour, I highly recommend this 3-day Sahara Desert tour departing from Fes, which includes drop-off at a Marrakech hotel or riad at the end of the adventure. If you prefer to start and end in Marrakech, then check out this Marrakech to Merzouga Sahara Desert Adventure. For those with an extra day up their sleeve, consider this 4-day private Sahara Desert tour, which includes a visit to the Swiss-inspired town of Ifrane and an encounter with Barbary apes.
Travel guide to Todra Gorge
Things to do in Todra Gorge
Explore the hiking trails
Whether you're an experienced mountaineer or simply looking for a scenic hike, Todra Gorge offers trails that will inspire outdoor enthusiasts of all stripes. The landscapes are truly magical and you’ll encounter authentic Amazigh culture around every bend.
One of the best hikes in Todra Gorge is the 3-hour loop trail that departs from the northern entrance to the gorge near the cluster of artisan stalls. It climbs up a hillside via a set of concrete stairs before ascending to a mountain pass. Along the way, you’ll pass through several traditional settlements and enjoy stunning canyon views before descending to the palm-shaded village of Tizgui.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, consider this one-day mountaineering trip in Todra Gorge. With a certified mountain guide by your side, you'll hike, scramble, and climb to the breathtaking Sunrise Ridge of the Todra plateau, which rewards you with 360-degree views. After crossing the windswept plateau, you’ll descend into a rugged canyon and pass nomadic shepherds tending their goats.
Discover Todra’s abandoned ksour
The fortified mud-brick villages scattered across the Todra Valley offer a fascinating glimpse into North Africa's ancient past. Known as ksour (singular ksar), these crumbling castles served as both homes and fortresses in times gone by. While evocative, many are unstable, so tread carefully as you explore.
A standout is Ksar Asfalou, which boasts a cliffside setting overlooking the valley and once housed both Jewish and Muslim students. Ksar Tinerhir (also known as the “Jewish Quarter”) offers another living window into the past as one of the few inhabited ksour in the area. Families still reside in its medieval maze of alleys and courtyards, and there are a couple of places to stay within its mud-brick walls. A 30-minute walk away is the abandoned Ksar Afanour and its ancient Mosque Ikalalne, which can be entered for a small fee.
Explore the Palmeraie de Tinghir
This verdant oasis is one of Morocco's most spectacular palm forests and extends for more than 14 kilometres. Fed by water from the High Atlas Mountains, its intricate network of irrigation channels allows olive, fig and pomegranate trees to flourish.
While the Palmeraie de Tinghir can be viewed from the paved road that winds through the valley, I’d highly recommend getting a closer look on one of the tranquil paths that lead through this fertile palm haven. There’s no set route - simply wander and soak up the serenity until you’re ready to return to your starting point.
Go Rock climbing
Todra Gorge is one of Morocco’s premier climbing destinations and while the popularity of this narrow canyon has soared in recent years, its 400+ climbing routes never feel crowded.
Before attempting any of the rock walls, I recommend stopping by Aventures Verticales Maroc to gear up. Their shop is located at the gorge entrance and has a huge selection of quality ropes, harnesses, helmets and more for rent or purchase. The highly experienced staff can advise on routes best suited for your skill level and they offer guided climbs too.
Serious climbers or those who want to develop their skills will love this 5-day adventure in Todra Gorge run by Aventures Verticales Maroc. It offers one-on-one instruction and will get you to all of the gorge’s top climbing routes.
Go shopping at the local souk
Open-air markets are the beating heart of Moroccan culture, with fragrant spices, hand-woven textiles and leather goods piled high. Every Monday, Tinghir hosts a massive open-air market 2.5 km west of the city centre that offers a fascinating insight into commercial life.
It’s a great place to people watch as traditionally dressed locals barter for goods and haggling over prices is all part of the experience. On Sundays, you'll find a more modest vegetable market in the same spot while Saturdays draw cattle and livestock sellers to the area.
Travel guide to Dades and Todra gorges
Best places to stay in Todra Gorge
Riad Lalla $$
With wonderful mountain views, Riad Lalla is a new, family-run guesthouse in the heart of Todra Gorge. There’s a resident guide if you want to head out on hikes and optional dinners can be prepared, ready for you on return. Most rooms come with private balconies.
The comfortable and inviting rooms at this cosy guesthouse are great for hikers, with trails leading directly from the front door. Guests rave about the welcome they receive from the hosts and the high-quality meals served at breakfast and dinner.
Eclectically decorated, this hostel in Todra Gorge is perfect for those travelling on a budget. You can choose from 4-bed or 6-bed dorms or opt for a private room. In addition to a kitchen for guests to use, there’s a rooftop terrace overlooking the surrounding ksar.
How to visit Dades Gorge
Things to do in Dades Gorge
Drive the Route des Gorges du Dades
As you follow the twists and turns of the Dades River along the Route des Gorges du Dades, you'll be treated to enchanting scenes of lush orchards set against pink-hued sandstone cliffs. Not to miss are the unique “Monkey Fingers” (near the village of Tamlalt), with these unusual rock formations especially magical at sunset.
The most spectacular part of the drive is a series of thrilling switchbacks that offer jaw-dropping views. Be sure to stop at the many viewpoints to take in the scenery and be careful navigating past trucks and other vehicles at the hairpin turns. The most famous lookout spot is at Hotel Restaurant Timzzillite, perched at the top of the gorge. Enjoy a refreshing cup of Moroccan mint tea on their panoramic terrace as you watch the road zigzag its way below.
The road then leads to M’Semrir (around 60 kilometres north of Boumalne Dades), the jumping-off point for excursions into the Todra Gorge or Atlas Mountains. The 40-kilometre drive to Todra Gorge is an epic off-road adventure, but only for experienced drivers with rugged high-clearance 4x4s. Before revving up your engine, be sure to get an up-to-date condition report, as flash flooding can rapidly deteriorate this route.
Hike from Aït Oudinar to Tamlalt
This 3.5-hour trek winds along the eastern side of the Dades Valley, passing by crumbling kasbahs and ksour. Though intriguing, caution is advised when exploring these ruins as some are only just standing!
The scenery on this walk is truly spectacular. The contrast between the barren mountains and the lush valley floor is startling. Along the way, you’ll discover caves carved into the hillsides, extraordinary rock formations and the remains of ancient structures.
Further down the valley, you may encounter shepherds herding sheep and goats before arriving at the dramatic rock formations of the “Monkey's Fingers”. The trail leads through Ait Arbi, a small village, before descending to the entrance of the Canyon des Doigts du Singe, directly across from Tamlait.
Don’t want to trek alone? This guided Monkey Finger’s canyon hike in Dades Gorge takes in 7 kilometres of spectacular scenery over its three-hour duration.
Visit the Valley of the Roses
Dades Gorge is the perfect base for exploring the Valley of Roses, which begins at the gateway town of Kalaat M’Gouna just to the west of Boumalne Dades. When springtime rolls around, fields of vibrant roses blossom as far as the eye can see in this fertile area, transforming it into a fragrant wonderland.
The best time to visit is during the peak blooming months of April and May when you’ll be able to smell the Valley of the Roses before you see it. In addition to the intoxicating scent of rose oil being distilled, you’ll find rose petal-made hearts being sold on the roadside. Beyond the flower fields, the rugged M'goun Summit rewards hikers with jaw-dropping vistas over the valley.
How to visit Todra Gorge
Best places to stay in Dades Gorge
With its gorgeous architecture and contemporary-meets-traditional design, La Perle du Dades is one of the best places to stay in Dades Gorge. It boasts an inviting swimming pool in its tranquil gardens - the perfect spot to retreat on hot, summer days.
Inspired by kasbah architecture, La Porte du Dades offers a range of inviting rooms centred around a leafy courtyard. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure an incredible stay and the meals are top-notch.
This family-run eco-lodge in Dades offers an affordable stay and some of the best hospitality you’re likely to experience in Morocco. In addition to its spacious rooms, it receives rave reviews for the quality of its meals.
Travel guide to Todra and Dades
Staying in Skoura
As mentioned earlier, Skoura is one of our favourite places to stay when travelling to Dades and Todra. It was once a vital trading post where caravans from the desert transferred their goods to mule trains headed for the imperial city of Fes. While nearby Ouarzazate later eclipsed it as the region's commercial hub, Skoura still retains its medieval character and has some beautiful kasbahs in which you can stay for a night (or two).
Things to do in Skoura
Wander through the Palmeraie de Skoura
Not to miss is the Palmeraie de Skoura, a hidden gem protected by UNESCO that has been irrigated for centuries. More than 100 bird species have been recorded flitting through its gardens, beneath which runs an intricate system of underground canals built to harness water in the desert. Along the tranquil pathways, discover over 20 varieties of sweet, plump dates dangling from the palms.
Visit Kasbah Amridil
Just off Skoura’s main road is this living museum, which once appeared on Morocco’s 50dh note. It has been split into two sections - one more authentic and crowned with a lofty terrace overlooking the kasbah's labyrinthine lanes and the other a more modern restoration with a garden design transplanted from Marrakech. It offers a fascinating insight into kasbah life in times gone by, complete with bread ovens, an olive oil press and animal stalls.
Stop by the Musée Memoire de Ouarzazate
Occupying another kasbah in Skoura is this engaging museum, which provides a window into the rich history and age-old traditions of Southern Morocco's indigenous people. Highlights of the collection include a marriage contract penned in saffron and drawings unveiling the inner workings and construction of a kasbah fortress. Try and coincide your visit with one of the museum’s cultural performances.
Travel guide to Skoura
Best places to stay in Skoura
Set on a four-acre farm in the Skoura oasis, this eco-friendly Moroccan hotel entices with its air-conditioned rooms, saltwater swimming pool and hammam. The rooms are beautifully decorated with traditional textiles and the intricate carvings on the kasbah are a treat in themselves.
Nestled within its own gardens, this beautiful kasbah hotel in Skoura is family-run. Its rooms are overflowing with character and the sparkling swimming pool is a big plus. The cherry on the cake is the fireside lounge where you can cosy up with a good book in winter.
Situated on the edge of the palmeraie, this Skoura eco-lodge is the perfect place to stay for eco-minded travellers. There’s incredible hospitality from the brother-owners and delicious dinners are served fireside.
Travel guide to Skoura
The best time to visit Dades, Todra and Skoura
The best times to visit Todra and Dades Gorges are during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). With pleasantly warm days and cool nights, you'll find ideal conditions for hiking, rock climbing and exploring the area's winding roads and picturesque villages.
Summertime brings scorching heat, with temperatures soaring to around 35°C during the day. Thankfully the dry air means the nights still cool off to around 18°C, giving some relief. Unless you don't mind sweltering temperatures, it's best to avoid July and August.
Bundling up is a must for winter visits between November and March when daytime temperatures are chilly and nights drop below freezing. The upside is you'll enjoy a tranquil experience with smaller crowds and get to admire the gorges' dazzling rock walls lit up by the golden morning light.
Whenever you go, start your days early. Mornings offer not only ideal lighting but also fewer tourists. While mid-day and afternoons are pleasant too, you'll likely have more company when the day trippers arrive. If you’re self-driving, avoid being on the road after dark as the roads are notoriously narrow, winding and poorly lit.
For more information about driving in Morocco, check out my detailed article here.
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