How to Plan Your Private Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou Day Trip from Marrakech

If you’re planning a trip to Marrakech, you shouldn’t miss a day trip to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou. This scenic and historical tour offers amazing landscapes, ancient Kasbahs, and a chance to discover the best of Moroccan culture. For your convenience, we’ve compiled all the essential information you need to know to plan a hassle-free and unforgettable private day trip.

Why Take a Day Trip to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou from Marrakech

As you travel along the Atlas Mountains pass, you’ll witness diverse landscapes ranging from green valleys to rocky hills. Your first stop will be the famous Kasbah Ait Benhaddou fortress, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This well-preserved Kasbah has played a crucial role in several famous movies like Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, and The Mummy. You’ll get to explore the labyrinthine streets while a knowledgeable guide shares the stories and histories of this ancient village. Next, you’ll continue to Ouarzazate, a small city that has been nicknamed “The Hollywood of Africa.” You’ll get to visit the Atlas Film studios, where so many famous movies have been filmed, and witness the behind the scenes of cinema magic. You’ll also get a chance to explore the city and soak up the atmosphere of a modern Moroccan city.

Itinerary

Your day trip starts with a pickup from your hotel or a central location in Marrakech. A professional driver will meet you at the pickup location, and you’ll start your journey in an air-conditioned vehicle with wi-fi access throughout the trip. After the pickup, you’ll head towards the Atlas Mountains, crossing the Tizi-n-Tichka pass, the highest pass in Morocco, at an altitude of 2,260 meters above sea level. Your first stop will be the Kasbah Ait Benhaddou. You’ll have enough time to explore this ancient Kasbah with a guide and witness the beautiful landscape around it. Afterward, you’ll have lunch in a local restaurant with traditional Moroccan food. Your tour includes lunch, so you won’t have to worry about finding a place to eat or paying extra for food. Next, you’ll continue to Ouarzazate, where you’ll visit the Atlas Film studios, which have been producing films for over 50 years. You’ll have a chance to learn about the history of cinema in Morocco and how the studios have contributed to the modern film industry. Additionally, you’ll get to see some famous film sets and locations for various movies. Finally, you’ll head back to Marrakech, with your driver taking the same route through the Atlas Mountains. The tour ends when you’re dropped back off at your hotel or any other central location in Marrakech. Note: The itinerary may change depending on weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances. Your guide or driver will notify you of any changes to the itinerary.

Highlights

Here are some of the highlights of the private Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou day trip: – Cross the Tizi-n-Tichka pass, the highest pass in Morocco – Explore the ancient Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site – Visit Ouarzazate, known as “The Hollywood of Africa” and discover the Atlas Film studios. – Enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch in a local restaurant. – Experience the beauty and diversity of Moroccan landscapes. – Get the chance to take amazing photographs and make unforgettable memories.

What’s Included

Your private day trip to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou includes: – Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. – Professional driver. – Entrance fees to Kasbah Ait Benhaddou and Atlas Film studios. – Lunch at a local restaurant. – Refreshments. – Guide tip (Optional). It’s important to note that the tour doesn’t include personal expenses like souvenirs or additional food/drinks.

Booking Your Private Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou Day Trip

Booking your tour is straightforward and easy. You can book your private day trip online through GetYourGuide.com, a trusted third-party platform that offers secure and easy-to-use booking. The tour costs $196 per person, including all the items mentioned in “What’s included.” To book your tour, go to the following link: book the tour here. Select the date, the number of persons, and make your payment securely. You’ll receive a confirmation email with all the necessary details and instructions for your tour.

Book Your Tour Now

If you’re looking for the perfect day trip from Marrakech, you can’t go wrong with the private Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou day trip. This tour offers a perfect combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. Now that you have all the essential information about the tour, you’re ready to plan your visit and enjoy the best that Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou have to offer. So, book your tour today and get ready to have an unforgettable experience!

FAQ About Marrakech

Marrakech is a vibrant and historic city in Morocco that attracts a lot of tourists every year. If you’re planning a trip to Marrakech, you may have a lot of questions about the city. To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a list of frequently asked questions about Marrakech.

1. Where is Marrakech?

Marrakech is located in the western part of Morocco, in North Africa. It is about 240 kilometers south of Casablanca and 580 kilometers southwest of Rabat, Morocco’s capital city.

2. What is the best time to visit Marrakech?

The best time to visit Marrakech is from March to May or September to November, when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds than during the summer months. The summer months can be extremely hot, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F).

3. What is the local currency in Marrakech?

The local currency in Marrakech is the Moroccan Dirham (MAD). You can exchange your currency at money exchange booths and banks. Credit cards are widely accepted in Marrakech, especially in high-end hotels, restaurants, and shops.

4. What are some must-see attractions in Marrakech?

Marrakech is home to many beautiful and historic attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some of the must-see attractions:

A. Jemaa el Fna

Jemaa el Fna is a large square in the heart of Marrakech, known for its lively atmosphere, street performers, and food vendors.

B. Bahia Palace

Bahia Palace is a stunning palace built in the 19th century that is known for its intricate tilework and beautiful gardens.

C. Koutoubia Mosque

Koutoubia Mosque is the largest mosque in Marrakech and is known for its beautiful architecture and towering minaret.

D. Majorelle Garden

Majorelle Garden is a beautiful garden sanctuary that was once owned by French artist Jacques Majorelle.

5. What are some things to do in Marrakech?

In addition to visiting the city’s attractions, there are many other things to do in Marrakech, such as:

A. Take a cooking class

Moroccan cuisine is famous for its unique flavors and spices. Taking a cooking class is a great way to learn about Moroccan culture and taste some delicious food.

B. Visit a traditional Hammam

A Hammam is a traditional Moroccan bathhouse where you can relax and unwind. Treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa treatment and massage.

C. Go shopping in the souks

Marrakech is famous for its colorful markets, known as souks. Bring home some local crafts, textiles, and spices as souvenirs.

D. Take a hot air balloon ride

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a breathtaking view of Marrakech from a hot air balloon.

6. What should I wear in Marrakech?

Marrakech is a predominantly Muslim city, and it is important to dress modestly out of respect for the local culture. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and both men and women should avoid wearing revealing clothing. It is also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes, as the streets in Marrakech can be busy and uneven.

7. Is it safe to travel to Marrakech?

Marrakech is generally a safe city to visit, but it is always a good idea to take precautions when traveling. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid displaying valuables, and be cautious when using public transportation. It is also recommended to travel with a local guide, especially if you are unfamiliar with the city.

8. What is the local cuisine in Marrakech?

Moroccan cuisine is known for its unique blend of spices and flavors. Some of the must-try dishes in Marrakech include tagine (a slow-cooked stew), couscous (a grain-based dish typically served with vegetables and meat), and harira (a hearty soup made with lentils and tomatoes).

9. What is the official language in Marrakech?

The official language in Marrakech is Arabic, but many people also speak French and English.

10. What is the best way to get around Marrakech?

The best way to get around Marrakech is on foot or by taxi. Taxis are affordable and readily available, but make sure to agree on the price before getting in. You can also hire a local guide to show you around the city and take you to the best attractions.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Marrakech

Marrakech is a bustling city located in the heart of Morocco, filled with colorful sights, sounds, and smells that have captured the hearts of travelers for centuries. It’s a city that offers an abundance of experiences, from the markets to the palaces to the food, and if you’re planning a trip to Marrakech, you’re in for a treat. In this guide, we will take you through some of the best ways to spend your time as a tourist in Marrakech, from exploring the medina to trying authentic Moroccan cuisine.

1. Explore the Medina

The medina is the heart of Marrakech, with narrow streets lined with vendors selling everything from traditional clothing to spices to jewelry. It’s a maze of markets, shops, and restaurants, and can be overwhelming at first, but exploring the medina is an essential part of any trip to Marrakech. Here are a few things you should do in the medina:

• Visit Jemaa el-Fnaa: This is the central square in Marrakech and is a hub of activity day and night. Try some street food, watch the snake charmers, and soak up the atmosphere.
• Visit the souks: The souks are the markets of Marrakech and are filled with vendors selling everything from pottery to rugs. Take your time wandering through the narrow alleys and haggling with the vendors.
• Visit the Bahia Palace: This palace was built in the 19th century and is a stunning example of Moroccan architecture. It’s worth spending a few hours here exploring the intricate details.
• Visit the Koutoubia Mosque: This mosque is an iconic landmark in Marrakech with a 70-meter-high minaret. You can’t enter the mosque as a non-Muslim, but it’s worth admiring from the outside.

2. Visit the Majorelle Garden

The Majorelle Garden is a tranquil oasis in the heart of Marrakech, filled with exotic plants and water features. It was designed by the French artist Jacques Majorelle in the 1920s and was later bought by Yves Saint Laurent. Here are a few things to do at the Majorelle Garden:

• Admire the art: The garden is filled with sculptures and art, including those by Majorelle himself.
• Take photos: The garden is incredibly photogenic, and you’ll want to snap away.
• Relax by the pool: The garden has several pools where you can relax and enjoy the tranquility.
• Visit the Berber Museum: The garden also houses the Berber Museum, which showcases the culture and customs of the Berber people of North Africa.

3. Try Authentic Moroccan Cuisine

Moroccan cuisine is known for its blend of spices and flavors, and trying authentic Moroccan food is a must when visiting Marrakech. Here are a few dishes you should try:

• Tajine: A slow-cooked stew made with meat or vegetables and served with couscous.
• Couscous: A staple of Moroccan cuisine, couscous is a grain served with vegetables and meat or fish.
• Mint tea: This sweet tea is a Moroccan tradition and is often served after meals.
• Harira: A traditional soup made with lentils, chickpeas, and tomatoes.

4. Take a Day Trip

While Marrakech has plenty to offer, there are also several day trips you can take to explore the surrounding areas. Here are a few suggestions:

• Atlas Mountains: The Atlas Mountains offer stunning scenery and hiking trails, perfect for a day trip.
• Essaouira: This coastal city is known for its beaches and seafood and is only a few hours from Marrakech.
• Ouarzazate: This city is known as the Gateway to the Sahara and is home to several film studios.
• Ait Ben Haddou: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a fortified village made of clay and has been used as a filming location for several movies.

Book Your Tour Now

Marrakech is a city that will capture your heart and leave you wanting more. Whether you’re exploring the medina, relaxing in the Majorelle Garden, or trying authentic Moroccan cuisine, there’s something for everyone. And with several day trips to choose from, you can extend your stay and explore even more of what Morocco has to offer.