Day Trip from Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou: Journey to the Kasbahs

Embark on one of the most popular Morocco day trips from Marrakech to the cinematic wonders of Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate. This day trip in Morocco takes you across the spectacular High Atlas Mountains, a journey that begins early in the morning with a pickup from your hotel or riad. The drive itself is an adventure, as you ascend the winding roads of the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m), the highest major mountain pass in North Africa. Along the way, you’ll stop at panoramic viewpoints to admire the stunning landscape of Berber villages clinging to the mountainsides. Our first major stop is the fortified village of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and an iconic backdrop for numerous Hollywood blockbusters like Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and Lawrence of Arabia. Your local guide will lead you through the ancient alleyways and mud-brick structures of this magnificent kasbah, sharing stories of its history as a major caravan route. After exploring the kasbah, you’ll enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch at a local restaurant. Depending on time, we may also visit the nearby city of Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Africa,” to see its film studios and the historic Kasbah Taourirt. This excursion offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical richness, and cultural immersion, making it a truly unforgettable Morocco day trip.