Day Trip from Marrakech to Aït Ben Haddou & Ouarzazate

Your journey begins early, with pick-up from your accommodation in Marrakech around 7:30 AM. Travel south through the dramatic landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains, winding through scenic valleys, mountain villages, and breathtaking viewpoints along the Tizi n’Tichka Pass — one of Morocco’s most beautiful drives.
Stop en route for photos and refreshments before continuing toward Aït Ben Haddou, a fortified ksar (village) that dates back to the 17th century. Explore its maze of earthen homes, towers, and narrow alleys with your local guide, learning about its history and why it became a backdrop for films such as Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and Lawrence of Arabia.
After exploring the kasbah, enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch at a nearby restaurant with panoramic views of the valley. In the afternoon, continue to Ouarzazate, often called the “Gateway to the Desert.” Here you can visit the Taourirt Kasbah and, if time allows, stop by the Atlas Film Studios, where many famous productions were filmed.
In the late afternoon, begin your return drive to Marrakech, crossing back over the mountains and arriving around 7:00 PM.