Quick answer: The Dades and Todra gorges are two spectacular canyons on the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs between Ouarzazate and Merzouga. Dades is known for its red ‘Monkey Fingers’ rocks and hairpin road; Todra for its narrow passage between 300-metre cliffs. Both are usually visited on a 3- to 5-day desert tour from Marrakech or Fez.
Between the High Atlas and the Sahara, rivers have carved some of Morocco’s most dramatic landscapes. The Todra Gorge and the Dades Gorge are highlights of every desert road trip – here is how to enjoy them.
The Dades Valley and Gorge
- Monkey Fingers – rounded red rock formations near Tamellalt, best seen on a short walk.
- The hairpin road – the famous zigzag road climbing to a viewpoint café at Tizi n’Tadat, one of the most photographed roads in Morocco.
- Kasbahs and fig trees along the river.
- Rose Valley (Kelaat M’Gouna) – nearby, famous for its Rose Festival in May.
The Todra Gorge
Near the town of Tinghir, the Todra river squeezes between vertical limestone walls up to about 300 m high, with a passage only a few metres wide at the narrowest point. You can walk along the river bed, watch climbers on the walls and explore the palm groves of Tinghir with a local guide.
Walks and activities
- A 1-hour stroll through the Todra narrows.
- A 2–3 hour loop hike above the canyon.
- Rock climbing (for experienced climbers with local guides).
- A walk through the Tinghir oasis and its old ksour.
How to visit
The gorges are about 5–6 hours from Marrakech and 5 hours from Merzouga. Most travellers visit them on a desert tour:
- 4-day desert tour from Marrakech – night in the Dades Valley.
- 5-day desert tour – more time for walks.
- 4-day Fez to Marrakech via Merzouga.
Where to sleep
Kasbah guesthouses in the Dades Gorge offer views and home-cooked dinners. Evenings are cool even in summer.
Continue reading: Ait Ben Haddou, Marrakech to Merzouga and Merzouga desert camp.
Tours related to this guide
- 4-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga
- 5-Day Desert Tour from Marrakech to Merzouga
- 4-Day Circuit from Fez to Marrakech via the Merzouga Desert
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Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Dades Gorge or Todra Gorge?
They are different: Dades is known for its winding road and red rock formations, Todra for its narrow canyon between high cliffs. Most desert tours visit both.
How far is the Todra Gorge from Merzouga?
About 180–190 km, roughly 3 hours by road.
Can you walk through the Todra Gorge?
Yes, the narrow part is easy to walk along the river, and longer hikes above the gorge are possible with a guide.
Where is the Monkey Fingers rock formation?
In the Dades Valley near Tamellalt, on the road to the Dades Gorge.
Written by the Todo Marruecos Tours travel team, local tour operators based in Morocco. Last updated: September 2026.