The Dades Gorges, carved by the Dades River in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains, offer a winding stretch of road, towering rock walls, and centuries-old kasbahs perched on the cliffs. Located between the towns of Boumalne Dades and M’semrir, the gorge is especially known for its switchback road, often nicknamed “the snaking road of Tissadrine.” It’s a favorite among photographers and motorcyclists, with hairpin curves that reveal a new layer of landscape with every turn. At sunrise and sunset, the red and ochre hues of the canyon seem to shift, creating a dramatic natural light show across the rock face.

This area has been shaped not just by erosion, but by generations of Berber communities who continue to farm along the riverbanks. Terraced plots filled with almond, fig, and walnut trees line the valley floor, watered by ancient irrigation channels called seguias. Small villages dot the route, where travelers can stop for mint tea or stay in guesthouses built from local clay. Many of these houses are decorated with traditional Zellij tilework and woven textiles that reflect the skills passed down through families over centuries.

The Dades Gorges are also a starting point for hikes into the surrounding mountains. Trails range from short walks through narrow limestone corridors to full-day treks that lead to viewpoints high above the valley. One notable formation along the route is known as “Monkey Fingers,” a group of finger-like rock formations created by wind and water erosion. The site is popular with climbers and geologists, but most visitors simply enjoy the surreal scenery and the way the rocks catch shadows as the day progresses.