Todra Gorge, Morocco: Guide to the Canyon on the Way to the Sahara

The Todra Gorge is one of the most spectacular canyons in Morocco: limestone walls up to about 300 m high close in to only a few meters wide above a clear river. It sits near Tinghir, on the road from Marrakech to the Sahara, so most desert tours stop here. This guide explains what to see and how to visit.

Quick answer: visit the Todra Gorge on a desert tour between Marrakech or Fes and Merzouga; plan about 45 minutes to walk the narrowest section. It is included in our 3-day Merzouga tour from Marrakech and the 3 day tour from Marrakech routes.

Todra Gorge at a Glance

BookDetailsTip
Location15 km from TinghirOn the road to Merzouga
CliffsUp to about 300 m highBest light late morning
WalkAbout 45 min in the narrowsFlat and easy
ClimbingPopular rock-climbing areaOnly with a local guide

The Dades Valley, with its “monkey fingers” rocks, is about 1 hour away.

What to See

The narrows

The most impressive part, where the walls almost touch.

Tinghir palm grove

A green oasis of date palms and earthen villages before the gorge.

Berber villages

Small villages along the river further up the valley.

Todra Gorge near Tinghir | garganta del Todra cerca de Tinghir
Todra Gorge near Tinghir | garganta del Todra cerca de Tinghir. Photo: Jon Lean from Bristol, United Kingdom, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Tours That Stop at Todra

From Marrakech

See our 3 day and 4 day tour from Marrakech guides.

From Fes

See our 3 day tour from Fes guide.

Then the desert

Most tours continue to Merzouga. Read a night in the Sahara desert.

Tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes; the river can wet your feet.
  • Bring a light jacket: the gorge is shady and cool.
  • See what to pack for the desert route.

Todra Gorge FAQ

Where is the Todra Gorge?

Near Tinghir in southeastern Morocco, on the road between Ouarzazate and Merzouga.

How long do I need there?

About 1 hour, including a walk in the narrows.

Is the walk difficult?

No, the main path is flat and easy.

Can I visit on a desert tour?

Yes, most private tours to Merzouga stop there.

When is the best time?

Spring and autumn; late morning gives the best light.

See the Todra Gorge on a Private Tour

In short, the Todra Gorge is a must-see stop on the way 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 the 3-day Merzouga tour.