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Day Trip to Aït Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate

Day Trip to Aït Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate

May 15, 2024
1 día

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Embark on a full-day journey from Marrakech that will transport you to a different world. Cross the majestic mountains of the High Atlas through the Tizi n'Tichka pass and discover the desert landscapes, adobe kasbahs, and Hollywood scenarios that have made southern Morocco famous.

Highlights

  • A spectacular panoramic journey through the Tizi n'Tichka pass (2,260m).
  • Explore the Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Feel like you're in a Hollywood movie as you walk through the scenarios of "Gladiator" and "Game of Thrones".
  • Visit Ouarzazate, known as "The Gateway to the Desert" and the "Hollywood of Africa".
  • Discover the Taourirt Kasbah and the Atlas Studios (optional).

Detailed Itinerary

The adventure begins early in the morning with pickup from your hotel in Marrakech. We will head south, ascending through the winding roads of the High Atlas mountains. The scenery is breathtaking, and we will make several stops for you to take photos of the panoramic views. We will cross the famous Tizi n'Tichka pass, the highest road pass in North Africa.

As we descend from the Atlas, the landscape changes dramatically to a more arid terrain. Our first major stop is the legendary Aït Ben Haddou Kasbah. This fortified village (ksar) is one of the most spectacular examples of adobe architecture in southern Morocco. You will have time to cross the river and explore its narrow streets, climb to the top for stunning views, and understand why it has been chosen as a filming location for many famous movies and series.

After lunch at a local restaurant, we will continue to Ouarzazate, a quiet city and an important film center. Here, we will visit the Taourirt Kasbah, one of the best-preserved kasbahs in Morocco. Optionally, you can also visit the famous Atlas Studios, where many international productions have been filmed.

In the late afternoon, we will begin our journey back to Marrakech, crossing the High Atlas mountains once again as the sun begins to set. We will arrive in Marrakech in the evening, leaving you at your accommodation with unforgettable landscapes in your mind.

What's Included

  • Round-trip transportation from your hotel in Marrakech in an air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Spanish-speaking driver.
  • Photo stops.

What's Not Included

  • Lunch and drinks.
  • Entrance fees to the Taourirt Kasbah and the studios (approx. 3-5€ each).
  • Local guide in Aït Ben Haddou (optional, can be hired on-site).
  • Tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the trip very long? Yes, it's a long day with approximately 8 hours of driving in total (4 hours each way). However, the scenery is so spectacular, and we make so many stops that the trip becomes very enjoyable. It's worth the effort!

What type of clothing and footwear should I wear? It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes for walking, such as sneakers, as we will explore Aït Ben Haddou on foot. Wear comfortable clothing and don't forget a jacket, as it can be cooler in the mountains, even in summer. Sunscreen and a hat are essential.

Is the excursion suitable for children? Yes, children usually love the adventure of the kasbahs and the idea of being on a film set. However, keep in mind that it's a long day of driving in a car.

Ready for the adventure?

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