Escape Marrakech for a day and journey through the spectacular High Atlas Mountains to the land of ancient kasbahs and cinematic history. This full-day tour takes you across the Tizi n’Tichka Pass to the legendary fortified village of Ait Ben Haddou and the “Hollywood of Africa,” Ouarzazate.
Your day begins with an early morning departure from your accommodation in Marrakech. You’ll travel southeast, ascending into the majestic High Atlas Mountains. The scenic drive along one of Morocco’s most beautiful roads takes you over the breathtaking Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m), with frequent photo stops to admire panoramic views of Berber villages and terraced fields.
Your main destination is the UNESCO World Heritage site, Ait Ben Haddou. This iconic, fortified village (ksar) is Morocco’s most famous and has been the dramatic backdrop for numerous films and series, including Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and Lawrence of Arabia. You’ll have ample time to explore its ancient, sun-baked mudbrick structures, narrow alleyways, and kasbahs with a local guide, learning about its history and strategic importance on the old caravan route.
Afterward, you’ll continue a short distance to Ouarzazate, known as the “Door of the Desert” and the “Hollywood of Africa.” Here, you can visit the Atlas Film Studios—one of the largest film studios in the world—where many epic movies were shot (entrance fee optional).
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant with views of the surrounding landscape. In the afternoon, begin your return journey to Marrakech, crossing back over the High Atlas Mountains as the light changes, offering new perspectives on the dramatic scenery.
You will arrive back in Marrakech in the early evening, having experienced the awe-inspiring landscapes and rich history of southern Morocco in a single, unforgettable day.
