Full-Day Trip from Marrakech: Ait Ben Haddou & Ouarzazate

Welcome To Ait Ben Haddou & Ouarzazate

Time: Early morning, typically around 7:00 AM, to maximize the day.
Scenic Drive: The drive from Marrakech takes you through the High Atlas Mountains, a majestic range that stretches across North Africa. Along the way, you’ll cross traditional Berber villages where you can see mud-brick homes, terraced fields, and shepherds tending their flocks.
Tizi n’Tichka Pass: This is one of the most scenic mountain passes in Morocco, rising to an elevation of 2,260 meters. The pass offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, lush valleys, and winding roads. It’s a great spot for photos and to appreciate the diversity of Moroccan landscapes.

Time: Approx. 10:30 AM
What to Expect: Ait Ben Haddou is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as a "ksar" (a fortified village) with towers and walls made from a unique mix of clay and straw that gives it a rich red-brown color.
Historical and Cultural Significance: Ait Ben Haddou dates back to the 17th century and was an important stop on the caravan route linking Marrakech to the Sahara. This historic town offers insight into traditional Moroccan architecture and the strategic use of local materials in construction.
Guided Walk: The village is made up of narrow streets, stairs, and passages that wind through mud-brick houses and storage buildings. With a guide, you’ll explore these labyrinthine alleys, visiting some of the taller buildings that provide fantastic views of the surrounding landscape.
Film History: Ait Ben Haddou has been a filming location for movies and series such as Gladiator, Game of Thrones, Lawrence of Arabia, and The Mummy. The guide may point out specific spots used in filming, adding an element of cinematic history to the visit.

Time: Approx. 12:30 PM
Location: Local restaurant with views of the kasbahs and the Ounila Riverbed.
Cuisine: Traditional Moroccan dishes such as tagine, couscous, or grilled meats, often accompanied by fresh salads and bread.
Ambiance: The setting allows you to relax and enjoy the distinctive architecture and quiet atmosphere of Ait Ben Haddou before continuing your journey.

Time: Approx. 1:30 PM
Drive Duration: 30-45 minutes from Ait Ben Haddou.
Overview: Known as the “Gateway to the Desert,” Ouarzazate is famous for its strategic location near the Sahara and its role in Moroccan cinema. The city has long served as a base for travelers heading deeper into the desert.

Key Sites:
- Taourirt Kasbah: This is one of the most impressive and well-preserved kasbahs in Morocco. Built in the 19th century, it was the former residence of the powerful Glaoui family and showcases traditional Moroccan architecture with high walls, beautiful towers, and interior courtyards. The kasbah gives visitors a sense of life in ancient Morocco, as it was once home to hundreds of people, including family members, artisans, and servants.
- Atlas Film Studios: Often called “Hollywood in the Desert,” these studios have been used to film major Hollywood movies and international productions due to the area’s unique landscapes and architecture. If time permits, a guided tour of the studios offers a behind-the-scenes look at sets and props used in famous films, giving insight into Morocco's role in the global film industry.

Time: Approx. 4:00 PM
Drive Back: The return journey follows the same route through the High Atlas Mountains, allowing you to enjoy the scenery one last time, as the sun casts golden hues over the mountains.
Arrival in Marrakech: Around 7:00 PM, you’ll arrive back in Marrakech, concluding the day filled with captivating history, breathtaking views, and unforgettable experiences.