Stories of Discovery & Wonder

Hike Monkey Fingers Canyon: Red-Rock Gorges of Morocco’s Dades Valley

Winding between towering red pinnacles, the Monkey Fingers Canyon hike offers 2–3 hours of narrow gorges, terraced gardens and panoramic valley views. Short and dramatic, it’s ideal for photographers and hikers who want a concentrated taste of Morocco’s Dades Valley.

Boumalne Dades, Drâa-Tafilalet•

2–3 hours

•By Adventure Collective•October 2025

The Experience

A low sun cuts the canyon into stripes of rust and ochre as you step off the village track and into a throat of stone. The walls close in like fingers—towering, eroded pillars that earned the place its name—while a narrow trail threads between them. Wind has carved the rock; water has taken it further. The scent of dry earth and almond trees hangs on the air.

Before You Go

Start before sunrise

Temperatures spike midday—an early start gives cooler hiking and better angled light for photos.

Bring 1–2L of water

There’s no guaranteed potable water on the route; ration water for the return climb.

Sturdy, grippy shoes

The trail has loose scree and narrow ledges—light trekking shoes or hikers with good tread reduce slip risk.

Hire a local guide

Guides navigate maze-like passages and share cultural and agricultural insights while supporting the village economy.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

•Terraced almond orchards near the trailhead—best in late spring bloom
•A viewpoint on the return path that overlooks the palm-lined Dades valley at sunset

Wildlife

•Raptors hunting the cliffs (e.g., Bonelli’s eagle and kestrels)
•Occasional sightings of Barbary sheep (aoudad) on upper slopes

Conservation Note

Visitor pressure can strain fragile soil and village water resources—stick to marked paths, pack out waste, and hire local guides to support sustainable tourism.

The Dades Valley is shaped by long-term erosion of Mesozoic and Cenozoic sediments; local Berber communities have farmed its irrigated terraces for centuries.

What to Bring

✓

Sturdy hiking shoesEssential

Grip for loose rock and narrow canyon footing.

✓

Sun hat and sunscreenEssential

Protection from intense sun on exposed valley ridges.

✓

1–2 liter water reservoirEssential

Hydration for the short but exposed hike.

○

Light wind layer or fleece

Evenings and early mornings can be cool, especially at higher elevation.

Common Questions

How long is the hike and what is the elevation change?

The route takes about 2–3 hours round-trip with modest elevation gain—expect several short climbs and descents but no sustained alpine ascent.

Do I need a guide?

No—an experienced hiker can follow the main path, but local guides improve navigation through tighter sections and provide cultural context while supporting the community.

Is the trail suitable for children or older travelers?

Families with older children who are steady on uneven ground can do the hike; it’s not recommended for those with serious mobility or spinal issues due to narrow, uneven passages.

How do I get there from Boumalne Dades?

The trailhead is accessed from a nearby Berber village outside Boumalne Dades—many visitors reach it by short taxi or tour transfer; confirm pickup details when booking.