The Dades Valley is one of the most beautiful stops on the road from Marrakech to the Sahara: earthen kasbahs, green fields along the river, red rock formations called the “monkey fingers” and the famous zigzag road of the Dades Gorge. Many desert tours spend a night here.
Quick answer: most private desert tours from Marrakech sleep one night in the Dades Valley, with time for the gorge viewpoint and a short walk. See our 3 day tour from Marrakech guide, or choose a longer route like the 5 day tour from Marrakech.
Dades Valley at a Glance
| Book | Details | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Between Ouarzazate and Tinghir | On the road to Merzouga |
| Highlights | Gorge viewpoint, monkey fingers, kasbahs | Golden light at sunset |
| Time needed | An afternoon and a night | Walk among the rock formations |
| Nearby | Rose Valley, Todra Gorge | Read Todra Gorge |
The rose harvest in the nearby Rose Valley takes place in May.
What to See
The Dades Gorge road
A famous series of hairpin bends with a viewpoint café at the top.
The monkey fingers
Red rock formations shaped like fingers; a short walk among them.
Kasbahs and villages
Earthen houses along the river and fields.
Tours That Sleep in the Dades
From Marrakech
See the 3 day and 4 day tour from Marrakech guides.
Next stop
Todra Gorge and the Sahara. Read a night in the Sahara desert.
Tips
- Bring a jacket: evenings are cool.
- Stay in a riad with a view of the valley.
Dades Valley FAQ
Where is the Dades Valley?
In southern Morocco, between Ouarzazate and Tinghir.
Is the Dades Valley worth visiting?
Yes, for the gorge, rock formations and kasbahs.
Do desert tours stop there?
Yes, most tours from Marrakech to Merzouga sleep there.
What are the monkey fingers?
Red rock formations shaped like fingers near the gorge.
When is the best time?
Spring and autumn.
See the Dades Valley on a Private Tour
In short, the Dades Valley is one of the best stops on the road to the Sahara. Tell us your dates and we will include it in your route.
Plan your trip: ask for a free quote, write to us on WhatsApp, or see our tours from Marrakech.