Day Trip from Marrakech to Ouarzazate and Ait Ben Haddou

Early Departure from Marrakech – Cross the Tizi n’Tichka Pass

The journey begins early in the morning as you depart Marrakech in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. You’ll ascend the winding roads of the High Atlas Mountains, crossing the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka Pass at 2,260 meters (7,415 ft), the highest paved mountain pass in Morocco.

Scenic highlights include:

• Breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks (in winter)

• Traditional Berber villages clinging to the mountain slopes

• Fields of olive trees and terraced farmlands

• Photo stops at elevated viewpoints

This leg of the journey typically takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, with scenic stops for photos and rest along the way.

Explore the Legendary Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

After crossing the Atlas Mountains, you’ll arrive at Ait Ben Haddou, one of the most well-preserved and iconic ksar (fortified village) structures in Morocco.

Why it’s famous:

• Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987

• Used as a filming location for international hits like Game of Thrones, Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, and The Mummy

• A stunning example of southern Moroccan earthen clay architecture

What to see and do:

• Cross the wadi (river) using stepping stones or the new pedestrian bridge

• Explore the mudbrick alleys and climb to the top for panoramic views

• Visit some of the inhabited homes and chat with locals about daily life in the ksar

• Capture incredible photos of the sunbaked red walls set against the bright blue sky

This visit typically lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours with the guidance of a knowledgeable local who brings the history of the kasbah to life.

Continue to Ouarzazate – Hollywood of Africa

After exploring Ait Ben Haddou, continue to Ouarzazate, located just 30 km away. Known as the “Hollywood of Africa,” Ouarzazate is home to some of Morocco’s most important film studios.

Main attractions include:

Atlas Film Studios

• One of the largest film studios in the world

• Film sets from movies like Kingdom of Heaven, Babel, Kundun, and more

• Walk through pharaoh’s palaces, temples, and desert scenes

Taourirt Kasbah

• A massive 19th-century kasbah once used by the powerful Glaoui family

• Well-preserved interiors with traditional Moroccan décor

• Scenic views over Ouarzazate and the surrounding desert plains

Lunch with a View – Moroccan Cuisine in Ouarzazate

Enjoy a delicious traditional Moroccan lunch at a local restaurant with views of the mountains or kasbahs.

Typical dishes include:

• Chicken or lamb tagine with prunes or apricots

• Berber couscous with vegetables and herbs

• Fresh Moroccan salads and homemade bread

• Mint tea served with Moroccan sweets

Return Journey to Marrakech – Sunset Over the Atlas

After a full day of exploration, begin your drive back to Marrakech in the late afternoon. As you retrace your path through the High Atlas Mountains, enjoy the golden light illuminating the rugged landscape—an unforgettable farewell to southern Morocco.

You’ll arrive back in Marrakech around 7:00 to 8:00 PM, tired but enriched by the cultural depth and dramatic scenery of the day.

What’s Included in the Day Trip:

• Hotel/Riad pick-up and drop-off in Marrakech

• Private or small-group transport in a modern vehicle

• English-speaking driver/guide

• Free time to explore Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate

• Optional entrance to Atlas Film Studios and Kasbah Taourirt

• Scenic stops through the High Atlas Mountains

Why Take a Day Trip to Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate?

• Visit Morocco’s most iconic kasbah in a single day

• Great for photographers, history lovers, and film buffs

• Get a taste of the Sahara gateway without committing to a multi-day tour

• Experience diverse landscapes, from mountain passes to desert plains

• Learn about Morocco’s Berber heritage and cinematic fame