Ait ben hadou day trip from Marrakech
Overview
Step into the cinematic and cultural heart of Morocco on this full-day journey from Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate, two legendary destinations nestled at the edge of the Atlas Mountains. Discover ancient fortified villages, film locations featured in major blockbusters, and awe-inspiring mountain scenery—all in one unforgettable day.
Itinerary
Morning Pickup & Drive through the Atlas Mountains
Your day begins with pickup at 7:00 AM from your hotel or the nearest accessible point to your riad in Marrakech. Travel in comfort through the scenic Tizi n’Tichka mountain pass, enjoying panoramic views, photo stops, and glimpses of traditional Berber villages along the way.
Visit to Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou (UNESCO Site)
Arriving at the iconic Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, you’ll explore this ancient earthen village with a local guide. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ksar is famous for its maze-like alleys, clay architecture, and historical significance as a former stop on the trans-Saharan trade route.
It’s also a world-renowned film location, featured in over 80 productions including:
Gladiator
Game of Thrones (Season 3)
The Mummy
Prince of Persia
Queen of the Desert
The Jewel of the Nile
…and many more.
Ouarzazate – The Hollywood of Africa
Continue on to Ouarzazate, a desert city known as the “Hollywood of Africa.” Here, you’ll have the chance to visit (optionally) Atlas Studios, the largest film studio in Africa, where scenes from Lawrence of Arabia, The Last Temptation of Christ, and Game of Thrones were shot.
Explore the Kasbah Taourirt or simply take in the cinematic atmosphere of this unique city before starting your return journey.
Return to Marrakech
After a full day of discovery, we begin the return trip to Marrakech in the late afternoon. Expect to arrive by approximately 19:00, with drop-off at your hotel or nearest accessible point to your riad.
What’s Included
Transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
English-speaking driver/guide
Pickup and drop-off at your hotel or nearest accessible point
Guided visit of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou
Not Included
Lunch, drinks
Entry fees to optional sites (e.g. Atlas Studios, Kasbah Taourirt)
Good to Know
Duration: Day trip
Pickup: From hotels or nearest accessible point for riads in Marrakech; confirmed the day before departure
Free Cancellation: Up to 24 hours before departure
Best for: Culture seekers, photography lovers, and those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime Sahara desert experience.
Overview
Step into the cinematic and cultural heart of Morocco on this full-day journey from Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate, two legendary destinations nestled at the edge of the Atlas Mountains. Discover ancient fortified villages, film locations featured in major blockbusters, and awe-inspiring mountain scenery—all in one unforgettable day.
Itinerary
Morning Pickup & Drive through the Atlas Mountains
Your day begins with pickup at 7:00 AM from your hotel or the nearest accessible point to your riad in Marrakech. Travel in comfort through the scenic Tizi n’Tichka mountain pass, enjoying panoramic views, photo stops, and glimpses of traditional Berber villages along the way.
Visit to Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou (UNESCO Site)
Arriving at the iconic Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, you’ll explore this ancient earthen village with a local guide. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ksar is famous for its maze-like alleys, clay architecture, and historical significance as a former stop on the trans-Saharan trade route.
It’s also a world-renowned film location, featured in over 80 productions including:
Gladiator
Game of Thrones (Season 3)
The Mummy
Prince of Persia
Queen of the Desert
The Jewel of the Nile
…and many more.
Ouarzazate – The Hollywood of Africa
Continue on to Ouarzazate, a desert city known as the “Hollywood of Africa.” Here, you’ll have the chance to visit (optionally) Atlas Studios, the largest film studio in Africa, where scenes from Lawrence of Arabia, The Last Temptation of Christ, and Game of Thrones were shot.
Explore the Kasbah Taourirt or simply take in the cinematic atmosphere of this unique city before starting your return journey.
Return to Marrakech
After a full day of discovery, we begin the return trip to Marrakech in the late afternoon. Expect to arrive by approximately 19:00, with drop-off at your hotel or nearest accessible point to your riad.
What’s Included
Transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
English-speaking driver/guide
Pickup and drop-off at your hotel or nearest accessible point
Guided visit of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou
Not Included
Lunch, drinks
Entry fees to optional sites (e.g. Atlas Studios, Kasbah Taourirt)
Good to Know
Duration: Day trip
Pickup: From hotels or nearest accessible point for riads in Marrakech; confirmed the day before departure
Free Cancellation: Up to 24 hours before departure
Best for: Culture seekers, photography lovers, and those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime Sahara desert experience.