Tinghir

Tinghir is a palm-grove oasis town that serves as the base for the Todra Gorge — a 300-meter-deep canyon where sheer rock walls narrow to just 10 meters wide. The gorge is one of Morocco's most extraordinary natural wonders and one of the world's premier rock climbing destinations.

The Todra oasis has been inhabited since antiquity — the earthen kasbahs visible on the hillsides above the palm groves are several centuries old. The Ait Morghad Berber tribe has traditionally controlled this valley. The Todra Gorge itself was carved by glacial meltwater during the last ice age.

Rock climbing in the Todra Gorge has attracted international climbers since the 1970s — it's considered one of the world's great limestone sport climbing areas. The palmery of Tinghir, maintained by the Ait Morghad tribe for generations, is one of Morocco's most spectacular agricultural landscapes.

• ✓The gorge is most dramatic in morning or late afternoon light — avoid midday.
• ✓Overnight in the gorge (small guesthouses at the canyon entrance) for dawn silence.
• ✓Continue beyond the gorge — the road through the mountains to Imilchil is exceptional.
• ✓Rock climbing guides are available locally — UIAA routes are well-maintained.

CTM buses from Ouarzazate (2h), Er-Rachidia (2h). Grand taxis from Boumalne Dades. Most visitors drive.