Day Trip to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Marrakech is a vibrant city with so much to explore, but if you’re looking to venture outside of the city and discover the stunning landscape of Morocco, the Day Trip to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou is a perfect opportunity. Here are some of the most common questions tourists ask about this excursion.

What is the Day Trip to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou?

The Day Trip to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou is a guided tour that takes you on a journey through the High Atlas Mountains to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Benhaddou. You’ll explore the preserved fortress city and discover its history before continuing on to Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Africa” because of the many movies filmed there.

What are the highlights of this tour?

There are many highlights on this tour. First, you’ll cross the Tizi-n-Tichka pass in the High Atlas Mountains, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Once you arrive at Ait Benhaddou, you’ll discover the well-preserved kasbah and learn about its history. You’ll then continue on to Ouarzazate, where you can see where many famous movies were filmed, such as Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, and The Mummy.

What should I expect on this tour?

This tour is an all-encompassing experience that allows you to explore the natural beauty of Morocco while also learning about its rich history and culture. You’ll travel in comfort in an air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi access, and your guide will provide insightful commentary throughout the journey. You’ll have the opportunity to see local villages and stunning landscapes before exploring the kasbah at Ait Benhaddou and visiting Ouarzazate.

What is the full description of this tour?

Discover local village, natural landscapes, and Kasbah Ait Benhaddou fortress on this day trip from Marrakech. Travel in an air-conditioned van or car and stay connected with Wi-Fi access as you cross the Atlas Mountains to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Benhaddou. Discover Ouarzazate, the “Hollywood of Africa,” and learn about the many movies filmed there before returning to Marrakech.

What else do I need to know about this tour?

The Day Trip to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou is a full-day tour that lasts around ten hours. You’ll need comfortable shoes and clothing, as you’ll be walking and exploring throughout the day. Lunch is not included in the tour, but your guide will recommend a good restaurant. This tour is suitable for all ages, but keep in mind that some parts of the journey may be bumpy due to the mountainous terrain.

Why should I book this tour?

The Day Trip to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou is an incredible opportunity to explore the natural beauty and rich history of Morocco. You’ll discover a UNESCO World Heritage site and learn about the Hollywood of Africa while traveling in comfort with convenient Wi-Fi access. This tour is perfect for those who want to venture outside of Marrakech and experience the stunning landscape of Morocco.

So, if you’re visiting Marrakech and looking for a way to experience the natural beauty and rich history of Morocco, book the Day Trip to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou today. You won’t regret it!

Click here to book your Day Trip to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou

Insider’s Guide to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou

Ouarzazate is a picturesque city located in the south of Morocco, and serves as an excellent destination for tourists seeking to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage. From the stunning natural beauty to the interesting historical sites, Ouarzazate is ideal for day trips, even though you’ll definitely want to stay longer. On this ultimate travel guide, I will take you through some of the best attractions, cultural experiences, dining spots, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions you can contemplate.

Local Attractions

1. Taourirt Kasbah – The oldest kasbah in Ouarzazate, which dates back to the 19th century.

2. Ait Benhaddou – A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the must-visit attractions within the region, visit the ksar with a guide (it’s very much worth it) to better appreciate the history and significance of this fortified village.

3. Atlas Film Studios – For film enthusiasts, consider visiting the Atlas Film Studios to get up close and personal with some of the sets created for famous movies and shows like “Gladiator” and “Game of Thrones”.

4. Oasis of Fint – Relax and take in the beautiful scenery at the Oasis of Fint, located just a few minutes from Ouarzazate.

Cultural Experiences

1. Visit the local souks – Souks are traditional markets filled with stalls selling just about anything you can imagine, from textiles to spices and more.

2. Learn Moroccan cooking – Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Moroccan dishes like tagines and couscous.

3. Visit the Berber Museum – Learn about the culture and history of the Berber people, one of Morocco’s indigenous groups.

Dining Spots

1. La Terrasse des Délices – This restaurant offers a stunning view of the Kasbah Taourirt while serving delicious local dishes such as tajines and couscous.

2. Café Resto Omar – A local favorite, this cafe serves up fantastic coffee and delicious breakfast.

3. Ksar Es Saoussan – This restaurant offers a friendly atmosphere and excellent food, it’s especially recommended for vegetarians.

Local History

Ouarzazate was originally established as a small kasbah and an important trading post for the trans-Saharan trade route. The city developed into a significant hub for film production in Morocco, due to the magnificent landscape, affordability, and skilled locals.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Hike in the Atlas Mountains – Only a short drive from Ouarzazate, take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

2. Visit the lake of Ouarzazate – The lake is an excellent alternative if you’re looking for a relaxing day outdoors.

3. Telouet Kasbah – A historical gem, the Kasbah is a few hours drive from Ouarzazate, still, the interior decor alone makes the drive worth it.

In Conclusion, Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou are beautiful destinations in Morocco, and there’s a lot to discover within the region. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in local culture, learn about the history of the area, or just relax in the beautiful scenery, Ouarzazate is an excellent destination to add to your travel itinerary.