7 Epic Things to Do in Todra Gorge, Morocco

The Todra Gorge, also known as Gorges du Todgha, is a natural wonder located in the eastern part of the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco, near the town of Tinghir. Carved over thousands of years by the erosive power of the Todra River, this spectacular canyon is renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs that rise vertically, creating an awe-inspiring passage. If you’re planning a trip through Morocco, particularly on the route connecting Marrakech or Ouarzazate to the Sahara Desert, a stop at Todra Gorge is highly recommended.

The most dramatic section of the Todra Gorge features rock walls soaring up to 300 to 400 meters high, with the canyon floor narrowing significantly in places, famously becoming as little as 10 meters wide. The rock faces display vibrant shades of red, pink, and orange that shift with the light throughout the day, making it particularly photogenic during sunrise and sunset.

Beyond its stunning geology, the area surrounding Todra Gorge, Morocco, is rich in culture, inhabited by Berber communities who maintain traditional lifestyles. Exploring Todra Gorge offers a chance to experience both incredible landscapes and authentic local culture.

Here are 7 Epic Things to Do in and around Todra Gorge:

1. Walk or Drive Through the Impressive Todra Gorge

The main highlight for many visitors is simply experiencing the scale of the canyon by walking or driving through its most impressive section. This narrow passage with towering walls is particularly breathtaking. Stop often to take photos of the dramatic scenery and the incredible contrast between the red rock and the green oases. While it can get congested, visiting in the early morning or late afternoon helps avoid the largest crowds.

• Suggested Image Alt Text: Dramatic cliffs in Todra Gorge, Morocco

2. Go Rock Climbing in Todra Gorge

Todra Gorge is considered one of the world’s greatest places for rock climbing, attracting avid climbers internationally. With over 400 climbing routes pegged into the limestone walls, there are options for various skill levels. If you’re new to climbing or need gear, local operators or shops like Aventures Verticales Maroc near the gorge entrance offer equipment rental, sales, and guided climbs. Multi-day climbing adventures are also available for serious climbers. It was even a favorite moment for one traveler who tried “wild climbing” here for the first time.

• Suggested Image Alt Text: Rock climbing on the cliffs of Todra Gorge

3. Explore the Hiking Trails

Hiking is another major draw to Todra Gorge. There are trails ranging in difficulty, offering different perspectives of the gorge and surrounding landscape. One described hike takes you high up along the gorge walls before scrambling down, which is considered difficult and best done with a guide as there isn’t really a marked trail. This higher scramble is suitable for shoulder seasons, as it’s too hot in summer and snow-covered in winter. A 3-hour loop trail starting near the northern entrance climbs to a mountain pass, passing traditional settlements before descending to the village of Tizgui. Another loop hike is about 9km with significant elevation gain, where you might encounter Berber nomads living in tents. Guides can often be arranged through local accommodations like Kasbahs.

• Suggested Image Alt Text: Hikers exploring a trail above Todra Gorge

4. Wander Through the Palmeraie de Tinghir

Just before reaching the dramatic canyon walls, you pass through the lush oasis of Tinghir, also known as the Palmeraie de Tinghir. This extensive palm forest stretches for more than 14 kilometers, a stark and beautiful contrast to the arid mountains. Fed by water from the High Atlas via an intricate, centuries-old irrigation system called khattara, the oasis supports date palms, olive, fig, and pomegranate trees. You can view the oasis from the road or walk along the tranquil paths within the palm groves to experience this fertile haven up close and see locals working in their fields.

• Suggested Image Alt Text: Date palms in the Tinghir oasis near Todra Gorge

5. Visit the Historic Ksour and Kasbahs

The Todra Gorge area is dotted with historic fortified mud-brick villages known as ksour (singular ksar) and Kasbahs. These crumbling structures offer a fascinating look into ancient life and architecture in Southern Morocco, having served as both homes and fortresses. Ksar Tinerhir, sometimes called the “Jewish Quarter,” is one of the few ksour still inhabited today, with families residing in its medieval alleys. Nearby abandoned Ksar Afanour and its ancient Mosque Ikalalne can be visited. While many are unstable, exploring these sites, including the ruined Kasbah in Tinghir, provides a glimpse into the region’s past.

• Suggested Image Alt Text: Ancient Ksar near Todra Gorge

6. Experience Local Berber/Amazigh Culture

The indigenous people of North Africa, the Amazigh (often called Berbers), live in villages and nomadic settlements around Todra Gorge. Visiting the area provides opportunities to interact with locals and experience their culture. You might see shepherds herding animals through the gorge, encounter nomads living in caves or tents in the mountains, or meet locals going about their daily lives, such as women fetching water from natural springs with donkeys. Some guided hikes or tours offer chances to visit Berber families, share tea, and learn about their subsistence lifestyle. Shopping at the local markets in Tinghir also provides insight into commercial life and traditional goods.

• Suggested Image Alt Text: Berber woman near Todra Gorge

7. Drive Further Beyond the Main Gorge

While the narrowest section is the most famous, the road (R703) continues north of the main gorge area towards villages like Tamtetoucht. Driving this section offers continued incredible landscape views with significantly less traffic compared to the main tourist spot. For the adventurous with a high-clearance 4×4 and experience, there’s an epic off-road route connecting towards the Dades Gorge area. Alternatively, continuing towards Er-Rich and then towards Merzouga offers a scenic route passing the Ziz Canyon.

• Suggested Image Alt Text: Road winding through Todra Gorge landscape

Planning Your Visit to Todra Gorge

Getting to Todra Gorge involves travel, typically from major cities like Marrakech or Fes. From Marrakech, it’s about a 6-7 hour drive. You can rent a car and drive yourself (roads are generally good but can be winding), take a bus to Tinghir, hire a “grand taxi” from Tinghir to the gorge, or join a guided tour, many of which combine Todra Gorge with the Dades Gorge and a Sahara Desert experience.

The best time to visit Todra Gorge is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) when temperatures are warm and pleasant for outdoor activities. Summer (July-August) is very hot, while winter (November-March) can be chilly, especially at night.

Accommodation options are available in Tinghir and closer to the gorge, ranging from traditional riads and kasbahs to guesthouses and even budget hostels. Some options mentioned include Kasbah Restaurant Amazir, Auberge Restaurant Atlas, La Petite Gorge, Riad Lalla, Palmeraie Guest House, Hike and Chill Homestay, and Auberge Restaurant Tizgui. Kasbah Taborihte was also mentioned as being perfectly located for hiking straight into the gorge.Whether you’re drawn by the challenge of the climbs, the beauty of the hikes, the cultural immersion, or simply the breathtaking scenery, Todra Gorge offers a memorable experience in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains.