One Day Trip to Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate from Marrakech

We will begin our journey early at 7 am (or 8 am during Winter days) from Marrakesh, embarking on a breathtaking drive through the Atlas Mountains. As we make our way through charming Berber villages, we will have the opportunity to take in panoramic views of the stunning landscape, with photo stops along the way to capture the beauty of this region. We will also make refreshment stops to ensure that we are comfortable throughout the approximately 4-hour drive.

As we make our way through the roads of the Atlas Mountains, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of charming Berber villages nestled into the side of the mountains. These villages are often camouflaged by the surrounding soil, making them a hidden treasure to discover. Along the way, we'll descend into lush valleys where you'll be able to drive alongside sparkling rivers, surrounded by gardens brimming with olive, walnut, pomegranate, apple, pear, and quince trees. Local Berber women and children can be seen tending to their goats and sheep, climbing up steep slopes in search of food and firewood.

As we get deeper into the mountains, the landscape transforms into a semi-arid, desert-like terrain. Here, you'll witness the iconic Kasbah architecture, with towers at the corners and grilled windows set into soft peach-colored walls. These traditional houses, made of adobe, are perfectly suited to the harsh climatic conditions of the south.

After crossing the famous Tizi-n-Tichka pass (the highest mount in Africa at 2260 m above sea level), we leave the main road and take a side road to the Telouet Kasbah, a stunning ruin that once belonged to the Pacha of the Atlas. This Kasbah is a testament to the region's rich history, and you'll have the chance to learn more about its past from any local guide.

Next, we will make our way to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou, the most well-preserved Kasbah in Morocco. Located on the old caravan route between Marrakesh and the Sahara, Ait Ben Haddou has long been a popular destination for travelers. Its stunning beauty has also made it a popular location for Hollywood blockbusters, making it a must-see for film fans.

Before continuing to Ouarzazate, you'll have the opportunity to take a break and enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the local restaurants in Ait Benhaddou.

Next, we will continue to Ouarzazate, known as the "gate to the desert." Here, we will visit the Taourirt Kasbah, a spectacular building that offers a glimpse into the Moroccan architecture of the past. The entrance fee for this Kasbah is just 2 euros or 20 dirhams per person.

As the day comes to a close, we will begin our journey back to Marrakesh, taking in the stunning views of the Atlas Mountains.

This excursion is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore Morocco's rich history and culture, and we can't wait to share it with you. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience all that Morocco has to offer. Book your tour today!