Marrakech to Ouarzazate: Private Day Trip to Kasbah Ait-ben-hadou
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Visit the UNESCO-listed city of Ait Ben Haddou
Explore Ouarzazate and its cinema studios
Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant
A private guide and vehicle ensure a personalized experience
Available options
Marrakech to Ouarzazate: Private Day Trip to Kasbah Ait-ben-hadou
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
pick-up / drop-off from your accommodation in Marrakech.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Departure from Marrakech around 07H30 to Ouarzazate we pass over the High Atlas Mountains. During the journey we will enjoy many beautiful scenes of the Berber villages, elevated views of the mountains. a short stop in t'izt tichka pass at elevation of 2260 meters of altitude. to take pictures of the spectacular atlas mountains.
2
Ouarzazate (Hollywood of Africa, Noiselessly town, the door of the desert), is a city situated in the middle of a bare plateau, south of the High Atlas Mountains. It is mainly inhabited by Berbers, who constructed many of the prominent Kasbahs and building for which the area is known. One of those building is Taourirt Kasbah diverted in 17th century. Why this town is nicknamed as Hollywood of Africa? Simply because it has been noted as a film-making location, with Morocco’s biggest studios inviting many international film companies to shoot their movies like: Lawrence of Arabia (1962), The Living Daylights (1987), The Last Temptation of Christ (1988), The Mummy (1999), Gladiator (2000), Kingdom of Heaven (2005), Martin Scorsese’s Kundun (1997) and Babel (2005). You can visit the Studio of Cinema, Kasbah Taourirt, and Museum of Cinema.
3
Stop 3
the fortified Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, built in the 11th century. Once up on a time this Kasbah was the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakesh. It is situated on a hill along the Ounila River and has some beautiful examples of Kasbahs, which unfortunately sustain damage during each rainstorm and windstorms. Most of the town’s inhabitants now live in a more modern village at the other side of the river; however, around five families are still living within this Kasbah. Ait Benhaddou Kasbah has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987 and several films have been shot there, including Lawrence of Arabia (1962), Time Bandits (1981), The Jewel of the Nile (1985), Kundun (1997), Gladiator (2000) and Alexander (2004)
What's not included
Lunch
Entry/Admission - Musee du Cinema
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
FR
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.5
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
1
3★
0
2★
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1★
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate is a bustling Moroccan city nestled in the heart of the Sahara Desert, known for its dramatic desert landscapes, ancient kasbahs, and world-renowned film studios. This city is a gateway to the majestic desert and offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and modern film industry allure.
Top Attractions
Kasbah Taourirt
A stunning 19th-century kasbah that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. It's a testament to the traditional architecture and history of the region.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
20-50 MAD
Atlas Film Studios
One of the largest film studios in the world, known for hosting the filming of major movies and TV series. Visitors can tour the sets and learn about the film industry in Morocco.
Entertainment
1-2 hours
50-100 MAD
Fint Oasis
A beautiful oasis located about 12 km from Ouarzazate, offering lush palm groves and a serene escape from the desert heat. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing day trip.
Nature
Half day
Free to explore, but guided tours may have a fee
Ait Ben Haddou
A UNESCO World Heritage site and a fortified village (ksar) that has been used as a filming location for many Hollywood movies. It's a stunning example of traditional Moroccan architecture.
Historical/Architecture
Half day to full day
70-100 MAD
Todgha Gorge
A dramatic canyon with towering cliffs and a narrow passage, perfect for hiking and rock climbing. It's one of the most spectacular natural sites in Morocco.
Nature/Adventure
Full day
Free to explore, but guided tours may have a fee
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tajine
A slow-cooked savory stew made with meat (chicken, lamb, or beef), vegetables, and a blend of spices, cooked in a traditional clay pot.
Dinner
Can be vegetarian or vegan with variations
Couscous
A dish made from steamed semolina grains, often served with vegetables and meat, and seasoned with a variety of spices.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be vegetarian or vegan with variations
Harira
A hearty soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and sometimes meat, often served during Ramadan.
Soup
Can be vegetarian or vegan with variations
M'semen
A type of Moroccan pancake, often served with honey or jam.
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in Todgha Gorge
Rock climbing
Camel trekking
Visiting Fint Oasis
Enjoying a traditional hammam (spa)
Sipping mint tea at a local café
Exploring Ait Ben Haddou
Visiting Atlas Film Studios
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)
These seasons offer pleasant weather for exploring the desert and historical sites without the extreme heat of summer. The scenery is also more vibrant with occasional blooms in the spring.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: French, Berber (Tamazight)
- English: Limited
Currency
Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
Time Zone
GMT+0
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Ouarzazate is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when using taxis, and agree on the fare before starting your journey.
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less touristy areas.
- • Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded markets and bus stations.
Getting there
By air
- Ouarzazate Airport • 5 km from city center
By bus
Ouarzazate Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Public transport is limited. Buses and petit taxis (small shared taxis) are available for travel within the city and to nearby attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: There are no widely used taxi apps in Ouarzazate.
Rentals
Car, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Taourirt
Fint
Day trips
Ait Ben Haddou
30 km • Half day to full day
A UNESCO World Heritage site and a fortified village (ksar) that has been used as a filming location for many Hollywood movies. It's a stunning example of traditional Moroccan architecture.
Todgha Gorge
150 km • Full day
A dramatic canyon with towering cliffs and a narrow passage, perfect for hiking and rock climbing. It's one of the most spectacular natural sites in Morocco.
Dades Valley
160 km • Full day
A picturesque valley known for its stunning landscapes, including palm groves, rocky cliffs, and traditional Berber villages. It's a great spot for hiking and photography.
Festivals
Festival des Nomades • June
Ramadan • Date varies (Islamic calendar)
Eid al-Fitr • Date varies (Islamic calendar, following Ramadan)
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for a more immersive and informative experience, especially when visiting historical sites and the desert.
- Carry plenty of water and sun protection, as the desert can be extremely hot and dry.
- Learn a few basic phrases in Arabic or French to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for their culture.
- Visit the souk early in the morning for the best selection and to experience the lively atmosphere.
- Book accommodations and transportation in advance, especially during peak seasons and festivals.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
