The Todra Gorge

The towering limestone stacks of the Todra Gorge are breathtakingly beautiful, as is the winding route upward from Tinerhir, which leads you there through delightful groves of date palm, pomegranate, fig, and olive trees. The namesake river that carved the gorge also feeds vegetation, forming the Todra Oasis—Morocco’s highest—cradled in the southern slopes of the High Atlas. This whole mountainous area is the heartland of the Aït Atta tribe of Berbers, who have inhabited the region for centuries. Today it’s also a top spot for trekking and rock climbing. Local hotels can organize guided hikes lasting several hours or several days. Mountaineers, ascending from the oasis to the steep cliffs of the gorge above, will also find plenty to keep them occupied, including several technical climbs for the experienced and some newer sections marked out for novices. Although hotels here may be able to offer you a guide and climbing equipment, the quality and condition of the latter cannot be vouched for, so bring your own or sign on for an organized tour run by a reputable outfitter.