Ait Benhaddou & Ouarzazate Day Trip

Kasbahs, mountain passes and movie sets

This is one of the most scenic drives in Morocco. Leaving Marrakech in the morning, you climb into the High Atlas along hairpin bends to the Tizi n’Tichka pass (2,260 m), with views over Berber villages clinging to the slopes and the Telouet kasbah in the distance.

At Ait Benhaddou you cross the Ounila river and explore the fortified earthen village with a local guide — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the backdrop of Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven and Game of Thrones. After lunch you continue to Ouarzazate to see the Taourirt Kasbah and, time permitting, the Atlas Film Studios, before returning to Marrakech.

Highlights

• Tizi n’Tichka pass at 2,260 m
• UNESCO-listed Ait Benhaddou with a local guide
• Famous film locations (Gladiator, Game of Thrones)
• Taourirt Kasbah in Ouarzazate
• Atlas Film Studios (if time permits)
• Berber villages and argan & mountain viewpoints

Program of the day

1. 07:30

   Early pick-up

   Departure from your hotel around 7:30 by private air-conditioned car.

2. ≈3h

   Tizi n’Tichka pass

   Climb the High Atlas with photo stops at panoramic viewpoints and a Berber village.

3. 11:30

   Ait Benhaddou

   About one hour walking tour of the ksar with a local guide, crossing the Ounila river.

4. 13:00

   Lunch

   Traditional lunch with a view of the kasbah (not included).

5. 14:30

   Ouarzazate

   Visit the outside of Taourirt Kasbah and the film studios if time permits.

6. 19:00

   Back to Marrakech

   Return over the pass with drop-off at your accommodation in the evening.

What’s included