THE GREAT ESCAPE
Day trip to Ouarzazate & Ait Ben Haddou
Enjoy a day trip to discover the ancestral Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou and the beautiful city of Ouarzazate with its film studios…
This day trip crosses the High Atlas by the Tizi n'Tichka pass to reach the UNESCO-listed ksar of Aït Ben Haddou and the film city of Ouarzazate, about 190 km from Marrakech. You travel through dramatic mountain scenery, explore the ancient earthen citadel and see the studios nicknamed the Hollywood of Africa before returning in the evening.
Across the Atlas to the edge of the desert
One of the great scenic drives in Morocco, this trip climbs the Tizi n’Tichka — the highest major mountain pass in the country — with sweeping views at every switchback, before dropping into the pre-Saharan south around Ouarzazate.
What you will see
- Aït Ben Haddou — a fortified village of red-earth kasbahs rising above the river, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the backdrop to films from Lawrence of Arabia to Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
- Ouarzazate — “the door of the desert,” home to Atlas and CLA film studios and the imposing Taourirt Kasbah.
- The Tichka pass — Berber villages, walnut valleys and mountain panoramas on the road over the High Atlas.
Good to know
It is a long but hugely rewarding day, with several hours of mountain driving each way and photo stops along the route. Cross the little river (usually shallow) on foot to reach the old ksar and climb its lanes for the best views. Bring water, sun protection and a camera.
Want to go deeper into the south? See our multi-day Sahara excursions from Marrakech. From €40 per person in a small group — confirm on WhatsApp.
What's included
- Round-trip transport from Marrakech (air-conditioned vehicle)
- Local driver-guide
- Small-group tour
Not included
- Meals and drinks
- Entrance fees (kasbahs, studios)
- Local guide at Aït Ben Haddou
- Gratuities (tips)
Departure & return
- Time : 07:00
- Meeting point : Pick up from your accommodation, hotel, or riad in Marrakech. If your accommodation is not accessible by car, you will be provided with a nearby meeting point instead.
- Return : Drop off in your accommodation, hotel, or riad in Marrakech. If your accommodation is not accessible by car, you will be provided with a nearby meeting point instead.
Gallery
Frequently asked questions
How do you get to Aït Ben Haddou from Marrakech?
You cross the High Atlas by the Tizi n'Tichka pass — about 190 km and roughly 4 hours' drive each way. Transport is included.
Can you visit Aït Ben Haddou on a day trip from Marrakech?
Yes. Although it is about 4 hours each way over the Tichka pass, Aït Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate make a long but very rewarding full-day trip.
How much is this day trip?
From €40 per person in a small group; confirm your quote on WhatsApp.
What will I see?
The UNESCO-listed ksar of Aït Ben Haddou (a famous film location) and Ouarzazate, the 'door of the desert,' with its film studios.
Are entrance fees included?
No. Any site entrance fees and lunch are paid separately.
How do I book?
Book directly on WhatsApp at +212 661 454 738 — no prepayment, you pay on the day.
