Dadès Valley

Between the High Atlas and Jebel Saghro, the Dadès river runs through an oasis valley where mud-brick kasbahs alternate with almond orchards. Further up, the valley narrows into gorges with red cliffs and rock formations nicknamed “the monkey fingers”.

The road climbing above Tamellalt is famous for its tight hairpin bends, one of the most photographed images of southern Morocco. On tours to Merzouga, the valley is the usual overnight stop, with hotels and guesthouses overlooking the river.

Nearby, Kelâat M’Gouna celebrates the Damask rose harvest every May, and the Todra gorges offer a 300-metre-high canyon you can walk through.