On the road that connects Ouarzazate with the Dades Valley and Todra Gorge lies Kalaat M'Gouna, an unassuming Moroccan town with hidden riches. It serves as a gateway to the Valley of the Roses, which has been carved over centuries by the Assif M'Goun River as it flows down from the High Atlas mountains. Here, roses have been grown for generations, with legend telling that they were first brought to Morocco by pilgrims from Saudi Arabia in the 10th century.
Today, the rose is woven into every facet of Kalaat M’Gouna’s identity, from the fragrant essential oils and rosewater produced by local artisans to the vibrant handicrafts and textiles that showcase the bloom's iconic form. Morocco's Valley of the Roses holds a special place in our hearts because it was here that we stayed on our honeymoon. With the smell of rose oil wafting through the air and hearts made from petals being sold on the side of the road, it is a holiday I’ll never forget.
Kalaat M’Gouna is most famed as the setting for the annual Rose Festival, a celebration that draws visitors from near and far to revel in the stunning floral splendour that blankets the region. During this magical time of year, the rosa damascena bursts into bloom and harvest season is in full swing. But the Valley of the Roses is worthy of a visit, no matter what time of the year you are in Morocco.
In this Ultimate Travel Guide to the Valley of the Roses in Morocco, discover the top things to see and do in the area, as well as inspiring places to stay and the best time to visit.
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BEST TOURS TO THE VALLEY OF THE ROSES
Don't have time to read the whole article? These are my top Valley of the Roses tour recommendations:
Things to do in the Valley of the Roses
Experience the Rose Festival
For seven glorious days each May, the local community comes together to honour the bountiful rose harvest that ignites the Dades and M'Goun valleys. People travel from all corners of the globe to immerse themselves in the aromas and traditions that define this cherished floral festival - it’s perfect for those who love roses or just the romance they conjure up!
Beyond simply admiring the stunning blooms, festival-goers have the opportunity to discover the myriad ways the local people have utilised roses over the centuries. From fragrant rose water and luxurious rose-infused oils to rose-based cosmetic products, the ingenuity and skill of Kalaat M’Gouna's artisans are on full display.
In addition to browsing stalls overflowing with intoxicating rose goods, you can learn about the processes that transform these delicate petals into sought-after wares. But the Rose Festival is about more than just commerce - it is a celebration of community, heritage and the deep connection the people of this region share with their natural environment.
Things to do in the Valley of the Roses, Morocco
Photograph the Old Bridge
While Kalaat M’Gouna’s Old Bridge has been around for generations, it’s only in recent years that it has been transformed into the colourful attraction of today. When the need arose for a new, modern bridge to accommodate the growing highway, this older structure became a place for local women to clean and air out their rugs.
As a result, it’s a great spot for photography, with an array of multi-coloured Amazigh rugs hung across the barriers. After beating the dust from the rugs, they are left to air in the sunshine before being returned to the family home. This daily ritual has turned the Old Bridge into a beloved local landmark where everyday domestic duties become an artistic scene.
Drive through the Valley of the Roses
One of the best ways to explore the area is by driving the 30-kilometre paved road that leads north from Kalaat M’Gouna as it hugs the route of the Assif M'Goun River. Along the way, there are ample opportunities to gaze out at the mesmerising scenery unfolding on all sides - the Valley of the Roses is a captivating juxtaposition of lush greenery and rust-coloured rock formations.
The road winds its way past wind-carved cliffs, cascading waterfalls and clusters of date palms, creating an ever-changing panorama that seems to shift and transform with each passing mile. Dotting the route are tiny villages where life continues as it has done for generations, with the addition of several traditional guesthouses where you can stay overnight.
The drive to the village of Bou Tharar takes less than an hour, ending with a winding descent to a crumbling kasbah. While it is possible to go further, you’ll need a 4x4 vehicle and experience navigating off-road, unmarked routes. Otherwise, turn around and head back to Kalaat M’Gouna the way you came.
Stroll along the valley floor
Wandering along the unmarked trails that crisscross the Valley of the Roses is a wonderful experience and can be enjoyed at any time of the year. But it’s particularly special during the rose harvest in April and May when the valley floor is buzzing with activity.
Before getting your hopes up at seeing never-ending fields of roses in bloom, the reality is that the flowers are picked so quickly that they never have a chance to build up in great numbers. Still, it’s incredible to experience the valley in this state of transition and watch the local women harvesting the roses.
It’s best to head out in the morning when the temperatures are still cool and the heady scent of roses fills the air. You can either park in one of the villages that dot the Valley of the Roses and set off on a self-guided wander or hire a local guide. The latter provides an invaluable opportunity to learn more about the Amazigh people who inhabit the area and their traditions, as well as have conversations with locals translated along the way.
Things to do in the Valley of the Roses, Morocco
Shop for rose products
Even outside of the rose harvest season, you’ll find a dizzying array of rose products in the stores that line the main street of Kalaat M’Gouna (some with distilleries onsite). After the rose petals are carefully hand-picked, they are swiftly transported to nearby factories where the real magic begins. Here, the fragrant petals undergo a distillation process that separates the precious rose oil from the plant material.
Often referred to as "liquid gold," rose oil is a highly sought-after essence that gives beauty products their intoxicating scent and purported skin-nourishing, mood-boosting and even migraine-relieving benefits. It takes four metric tons of rose petals to produce just a litre of rose oil, and, as such, it comes with a high price tag! In the stores of Kalaat M’Gouna, you’ll find everything from rose-infused creams and serums to rose water and pure rose essential oil.
Drive the spectacular Dades Gorge
Kalaat M’Gouna is just a short drive from the Dades Gorge, a spectacular valley that is best explored along the scenic Route des Gorges du Dades. The orchards that line the riverbanks provide a striking contrast to the pink-hued sandstone cliffs that rise up on either side, creating a truly enchanting setting. Not to miss are the unique "Monkey Fingers" rock formations near the village of Tamlalt, which take on an especially magical quality with the warm, golden light of the setting sun.
Another highlight of driving the Route des Gorges du Dades is the series of thrilling switchbacks that offer jaw-dropping views of the dramatic landscape below. As you navigate the tight, hairpin turns, be sure to pull over at the designated viewpoints to fully soak in the scenery, all the way to the snow-capped peaks of the Atlas Mountains. The most famous of these lookout spots is at the Hotel Restaurant Timzzillite, perched precariously at the very top of the gorge.
As the drive continues northward, the route eventually leads to M'Semrir, the jumping-off point for excursions into Todra Gorge and the rugged Atlas Mountains beyond. The 40-kilometre drive to Todra is an epic off-road adventure in itself, but one that should only be attempted by experienced drivers with high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles. Before setting out, be sure to check on the current conditions of the route, as flash flooding can rapidly deteriorate the road and make the journey treacherous.
To learn more about things to see and do in the Dades Gorge, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Todra Gorge + Dades Gorge + Skoura.
Things to do in the Valley of the Roses, Morocco
Hike from Aït Oudinar to Tamlalt
This 3.5-hour trek along the eastern side of the Dades Valley offers a mesmerising glimpse into Morocco's rich cultural heritage. As you wind your way through this ancient region, you'll be greeted by the crumbling remnants of kasbahs and ksour - fortified villages that were once the strongholds of local tribes. These remarkable structures, built using traditional mud-brick and stone construction techniques, offer a fascinating insight into life here in times gone by.
Throughout the trek, you'll discover hidden caves carved into the hillsides where locals have long sought refuge and shelter. Along the way, you may encounter local shepherds, their flocks of sheep and goats grazing peacefully against the backdrop of the dramatic terrain. After reaching the "Monkey's Fingers," the trail ends near the entrance of the Canyon des Doigts du Singe.
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.
How to get to Kalaat M’Gouna and the Valley of Roses
Kalaat M’Gouna is located on the road that connects Skoura with Boumalne Dades (the gateway to the Dades Gorge) and Tinghir (the gateway to the Todra Gorge). From Marrakech, it’s around 285 kilometres to Kalaat M’Gouna, with the journey taking around 5 or 6 hours. If you’re coming from Ouarzazate, the drive should only take around 1.5 hours. In Ouarzazate, there are lots of accommodation options and you can easily visit the Valley of the Roses as a day trip. Alternatively, multi-day tours between Marrakech and Fes often include a stop in the Valley of the Roses (either before or after visiting the Sahara Desert).
If you’re coming from Marrakech, the drive to the Valley of the Roses is itself an adventure, as the road winds its way upwards through the dramatic Tizi n Tichka Pass. From here, you’ll be treated to panoramic views across the Atlas Mountains that stretch out as far as the eye can see. In Marrakech, you’ll find a wealth of accommodation options to suit all budgets.
Travel guide to the Valley of the Roses in Morocco
Best places to stay in the Valley of the Roses
Located in the charming village of Agoulzi, this eco-friendly hotel offers sustainable stays in the Valley of the Roses. The guest rooms, individually decorated with a tasteful blend of traditional Moroccan style and modern comforts, provide sweeping views of the valley below. Delicious Moroccan specialties are served in the dining room or on the expansive terraces that overlook the Atlas Mountains.
"An amazing view over the Rose Valley! A place for a peaceful retreat to read a book while enjoying the view. The service was great and the breakfasts and dinners were some of the best during our trip in Marroco.” - Francisco (read more reviews here)
Just five minutes’ drive from Kalaat M’Gouna, this kasbah-inspired hotel offers a captivating stay in the Valley of the Roses. Each of the rooms is thoughtfully designed with a traditional aesthetic and there’s an inviting lounge with an open fireplace - perfect for chilly winter nights! A highlight of staying at Kasbah Agoulzi is its picturesque setting, with a furnished terrace that offers breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding mountains and meandering river.
"A very beautiful kasbah in a very peaceful location with beautiful views. The rooms were tidy, clean and fully equipped. The staff were very welcoming and helpful. The food was excellent. Highly recommended!” - Gary (read more reviews here)
Tucked away on a quiet, peaceful street, Maison d'hôtes IZZA is a tranquil and relaxing hotel in the Valley of the Roses, Morocco. This recently renovated guest house provides comfortable accommodations, a beautifully landscaped garden and a cosy shared lounge where you can unwind at the end of the day. Guests rave about the hospitality of the hosts and the delicious meals that are served at breakfast, lunch and dinner.
"Maison d'hôtes IZZA is a hidden gem! Isabelle and Mohammed are both amazing hosts. The property is removed from the center of town, but it is tranquil and serene, overlooking the valley.” - Marta (read more reviews here)
With its whitewashed rooms and earthy decor, this new hotel in the Valley of the Roses is perfect for a boutique stay. The apartment is beautifully decorated with Amazigh handicrafts and there’s a gorgeous terrace where you can enjoy breakfast each morning. Something that’s always mentioned by previous guests is the incredible welcome they receive from the host.
"Highly recommend this boutique little spot. So many sweet details.” - Virginia (read more reviews here)
From the moment you step through the ornately carved wooden doors of Kasbah Itran, you’re transported to another world. The interior of this historic kasbah hotel is a masterful blend of authenticity and comfort, with furnishings that pay homage to the region's Amazigh heritage. But the true magic of this place lies in the views that await you on the sprawling decks where you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the valley.
"Perfect home away from home in a historic Kasbah hotel.” - Marianne (read more reviews here)
Best places to stay in the Valley of the Roses, Morocco
Best time to visit the Valley of the Roses
Weatherwise, the best times to visit the Valley of the Roses in Morocco are the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. During these temperate periods, the days are pleasantly warm, often reaching the mid-20s Celsius (mid-70s Fahrenheit), while the nights provide a refreshing coolness, dipping down to around 18°C (64°F). This makes for perfect conditions to hike the valley’s winding trails and wander the picturesque Amazigh villages that dot the landscape. If you’re visiting in May, coincide your visit with the Festival of Roses, although be sure to book your accommodation and transport well in advance.
In contrast, the summer months can be brutally hot, with daytime temperatures soaring up to 35°C (95°F). While the dry desert air does provide some relief in the evenings, the relentless midday heat can be utterly draining, making strenuous activities like hiking and rock climbing unpleasant. The Valley of the Roses can also be quite busy during this period when European and North American vacationers are visiting Morocco.
The winter months bring a different set of challenges, with mild daytime temperatures but chilly nights. The trade-off is a wonderfully serene atmosphere, as the hordes of day-trippers disappear. Whenever you choose to visit, it's best to start your days early to make the most of the gorgeous lighting and smaller crowds. And if you're self-driving, be sure to avoid the roads after dark, as they are notoriously narrow, winding and poorly lit.
To learn more about driving in Morocco, check out my detailed article here. I recommend you rent a car in Morocco through Discover Cars, which offers free cancellation and 24/7 support. They have everything from compact automatics to manual vans, ensuring there’s something for all travel groups and driving styles.
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