Day Trip from Marrakech to Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazatee
Day Trip from Marrakech to Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazatee
Overview
Slip away from Marrakech and head over the High Atlas Mountains to explore the picture-perfect ancient fortified towns of Telouet, Ait Benhaddou, and Ouarzazate.
Highlights
- Scenic Drive through Tizi n’Tichka Pass.
- Visit to Ait Benhaddou.
- Taourirt Kasbah in Ouarzazate.
- Movie Studios.
Itinerary
After an early morning pick up at your accommodation, we will begin our exciting day discovering the historic towns that lie in the semi-arid plain on the other side of the High Atlas Mountains.
Leaving Marrakech, the snow covered peaks of the High Atlas Mountains will slowly become more and more visible.
Driving higher and higher, we will encounter the numerous winding switchbacks of the Tizi n’Tichka mountain pass, a marvel of modern engineering and design. At 2,260m above sea level, we will stop at the crest of the Tizi n’Tichka to gaze at the surrounding mountaintops.
Going down the other side of the High Atlas Mountains, we will veer off the main road to discover the traditional village of Ait Benhaddou, before continuing to the city of Ouarzazate, all famous for their distinct mudbrick architecture and preserved fortified town centers (Kasbah).
It’s of historic interest to note that all these towns grew powerful with the boom of trans-Saharan trade in the Middle Ages that linked Marrakesh to the sub-Saharan kingdoms; notable among them, Timbuktu.
Returning to the mountain road, we will cruise slowly through the Asif Ounila valley and gaze at the dozens of traditional Amazigh villages lining the valley cliffs. Just say the word and we’ll stop for pictures.
After about a 45 minute drive, we’ll arrive at the village of Ait Benhaddou, an important UNESCO sight in the region.
With its many towers and traditional houses, Ait Benhaddou stands as the most striking example of the pre-Saharan architecture of southern Morocco.
We can have lunch at one of the excellent restaurants overlooking Air Benhaddou.
Our last stop today will be in the capital of southern Morocco, Ouarzazate.
Like Telouet and Ait Benhaddou, Ouarzazate boasts an important fortified center, the Taourirt Kasbah.
However, what makes Ouarzazate most famous today are its internationally renowned movie studios.
Taking full advantage of southern Morocco’s beautiful desert landscapes, these studios have contributed to Hollywood blockbusters, such as The Mummy, Gladiator, and Lawrence of Arabia, just to name a few.
If you’d like, we can visit either the cinema museum, or even one of the studios.
At the end of the long day, we will take a more direct route back to Marrakesh to get you to your accommodation as quickly as possible.
Gallery
Location Map
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Frequently Asked Questions
Helpful information about your private day trip from Marrakech to Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate.
How long is the day trip from Marrakech to Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate?
This is a full-day excursion. The total duration is usually around 11 to 13 hours, depending on traffic, road and weather conditions, stops and the amount of time you spend at Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate.
We recommend an early departure from Marrakech so you have enough time to enjoy the different stops before returning to Marrakech in the evening.
What will we visit during the day trip?
The excursion takes you across the High Atlas Mountains toward Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate, with opportunities for scenic stops along the journey.
One of the main highlights is Ait Benhaddou, the famous fortified ksar where you can spend time exploring its historic earthen architecture.
The trip then continues toward Ouarzazate, where you will have time to discover the city and its surroundings before beginning the return journey to Marrakech.
Is this a private day trip?
Yes. This is a 100% private day trip. The vehicle and driver are reserved exclusively for you and your group, with no shared passengers.
A private excursion gives you more flexibility with departure time, comfort stops and the time spent at the main attractions.
Where will you pick us up in Marrakech?
Your driver will pick you up directly from your hotel, riad, apartment or other accommodation in Marrakech, provided it is accessible by car.
If your accommodation is inside the Medina or on a street that vehicles cannot access, your driver will meet you at the nearest accessible meeting point to your accommodation.
The exact meeting point can be confirmed with you before the day trip.
Can we make stops for photos, coffee or lunch?
Yes. Your private day trip allows for short scenic, photo, coffee and restroom stops during the journey.
There will also be time for a lunch break. Meals, entrance fees and local guides are not automatically included unless they are specifically stated in your booking.
If you would like to add a particular visit or activity, please contact us in advance so we can confirm whether it can be included within the day's itinerary.
Will we return to Marrakech after the day trip?
Yes. This excursion is organized as a same-day round trip from Marrakech. After visiting Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate, your private driver will take you back to Marrakech.
We will drop you at your accommodation when it is accessible by car. If vehicles cannot reach your accommodation, drop-off will be at the nearest accessible point.
Free Cancellation Policy
Book your Day Trip from Marrakech to Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate with confidence. Travel plans may change, so we offer flexible cancellation for your peace of mind.
- Free cancellation up to 72 hours before pick-up.
- Full refund for eligible online payments.
- Your 30% deposit is refundable within the cancellation period.
- No hidden cancellation fees.
🚘 Book Directly with Omega Tour
Book directly with the company operating your day trip. Our comfortable vehicles and professional drivers provide reliable private service without intermediary commissions.
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