Tinghir Travel Guide: Todra Gorge & Palm Oasis
Tinghir is a small oasis town in southern Morocco, famous as the gateway to the spectacular Todra Gorge. Palm groves and mud-brick villages fill the valley, while sheer limestone cliffs rise above. It is a favourite stop on the road between Ouarzazate and Merzouga.
At a glance
- Region
- Draa-Tafilalet, south-east Morocco
- Highlights
- Todra Gorge, palm oasis, Dades Valley
- Best time
- March to May, September to November
- Allow
- 1 to 2 days
- Nearest hub
- Ouarzazate or Errachidia
In this guide
The Todra Gorge
About 15 km from Tinghir, the Todra Gorge narrows to a corridor only a few metres wide, with walls up to 300 metres high. The road runs through it, and walking trails lead onwards into the High Atlas. It is dramatic in the morning light. Rock climbers and walkers come here in spring and autumn.
Tinghir palm grove
The oasis stretches for kilometres along the river, with irrigation channels, small farms and ancient kasbahs. Walk or bike through the palms, and look out for Amazigh women carrying produce and for traditional pisé (rammed earth) buildings. See our architecture guide.
Dades Gorge and Monkey Fingers
The Dades Valley, about an hour west, has rock formations known as Monkey Fingers and the winding Dades road. Many travellers combine Todra and Dades in one trip.
Where to stay and eat
Tinghir has simple hotels and kasbah guesthouses. Many restaurants serve tagines and Amazigh dishes, and homestays offer meals made with local ingredients. See Moroccan food.
Getting there
From Ouarzazate it is about 3 hours by road; from Merzouga about 2 to 3 hours. This is a common stop on the circuit from Marrakech to the Sahara and back to Fes, described in our Sahara tour guide and 7-day itinerary.
Tips
- Avoid midday heat in summer; early morning is best for walks.
- Hire a local guide for longer treks into the mountains.
- Roads in the gorges can be affected by floods after heavy rain.
Hiking and climbing near Tinghir
The Todra Gorge is a world-class rock climbing site, with routes of all grades on its limestone walls. Walkers can follow the river path through the gorge, or take longer trails over the High Atlas to the Dades valley and the Amazigh villages of the Ait Hdiddou. Local guides can arrange multi-day treks with mule support.
Amazigh culture in the valley
Tinghir is largely Amazigh, and visiting a family or cooperative is a good way to learn how people live in the oasis. Many women's cooperatives make carpets and weavings, and you can watch the process and buy directly. Ask before taking photographs, and consider hiring a local guide for a walk in the palm grove.
A day trip route
A popular loop begins with the palm grove walk, continues to the Todra Gorge for lunch, and ends with a drive towards the Dades valley for sunset at the Monkey Fingers. If you are heading to the dunes, Merzouga is about three hours east. See our Sahara tour guide.
Weather and safety
Mornings and evenings can be cold between November and March, and the sun is strong in summer. After heavy rain, the rivers rise quickly, and some tracks flood, so check conditions with your hotel before heading into the gorge.
Frequently asked questions
What is Tinghir famous for?
Tinghir is famous for the Todra Gorge, its palm oasis and as a gateway to the Dades Valley.
How long do you need in Tinghir?
Half a day for the gorge and oasis, or one night if you want a walk and a slow pace.
Is Todra Gorge worth visiting?
Yes. It is one of the most spectacular natural sights in southern Morocco.