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Cityscape of Boumalne Dades at sunset, Morocco.

Things to do in  Boumalne Dades

Gorges and roses

Boumalne Dades is a traditional Moroccan village located between Marrakech and the Merzouga desert, with the nearby Dadès River turning the region into an oasis. There are plenty of things to do in Boumalne Dades, like learning the craft of dagger-making and purchasing local souvenirs at the traveling market, which sets up shop on Wednesday. In the surrounding areas, you can also visit the Valley of Roses and hike in the Dadès Gorges.

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When to visit

Aim to visit Boumalne Dades during the spring or fall, when temperatures are moderate and good for exploring, shopping, and hiking. Winter gets quite cold, and summer is very warm, so these are times to avoid. If you want to make some rose water in the Valley of Roses, go in April or May when the roses are in bloom.

Getting around

It’s best to hire a private car and driver to get to and around Boumalne Dades. You can fly into Ouarzazate and drive to Boumalne Dades, which will take around two hours, or you can set off from Marrakech, an approximately 6-hour journey. You can also hop in a shared, grand taxi or a CTM bus from either city. To explore more of the Dadès Valley, guided tours are an excellent, convenient way to get the lay of the land.

Traveler tips

Make sure to dress respectfully and conservatively in Boumalne Dades. If you come from Marrakech, you will see Moroccans wearing everything from djellabas to just about anything you’d find in Western Europe. But because Boumalne Dades is more traditional, you will want to cover your shoulders and knees in loose-fitting, comfortable clothing. It can get warm, so consider linen, light wool, or other sweat-wicking materials.

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People Also Ask
Q:How much time should you spend in Boumalne Dades?
A:

You could spend either a half-day, a full day, or an overnight in Boumalne Dades. If you are stopping en route from Marrakech to the Sahara, make the most of it by reserving a homestay, where you can learn about the local culture and eat traditional Moroccan meals like tagines and couscous.

Q:Is Boumalne Dades good for kids?
A:

It depends. Boumalne Dades can be a great destination for older kids with a lot of stamina and an adventurous spirit. Here, families can wander among the vendors on market day, visit troglodyte cave homes, and go hiking. If you have young kids, be aware that the Dadès Gorges are not accessible to strollers.

Q:How difficult is hiking at Boumalne Dades?
A:

Hiking in the Dadès Valley, near Boumalne Dades, can range from easy to quite challenging. Your guide can recommend the best route for you and your group if you tell them about your fitness levels and what kind of experience you’re looking for. Make sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes.

Q:What kinds of accommodation are at the Boumalne Dades?
A:

From hotels to riads, there’s a variety of accommodation available in Boumalne Dades, with some options more luxurious than others. You'll find places with pools, outdoor terraces, and rooftops, making for romantic dinners under the stars. There are also several kasbah homestays if you want more of a cultural immersion.

Q:Do I need a guide for Boumalne Dades?
A:

No, you don’t need a guide to go to Boumalne Dades, but it is recommended. Guides can organize transport for you, saving you the trouble of figuring it out yourself. Plus, they can tell you more about the area and maybe even take you to a local’s home for tea.

Q:Is hiking near Boumalne Dades worth it?
A:

Yes, a hike near Boumalne Dades is worth it. Morocco’s terrain has incredible variations, and adventure seekers will want to explore as many trails as possible. Hike through the arid Dadès Gorges, soak up some Berber hospitality, and study the geographical layers in the canyon.