Ait Ben Haddou kasbah from Marrakech

Morning: Departure from Marrakech

Your journey begins early in the morning, as your driver picks you up from your hotel or riad in Marrakech. Get ready for a breathtaking drive through the High Atlas Mountains, with stunning scenery at every turn.

The Drive: Crossing the High Atlas

• Travel along the famous Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2,260m / 7,415 ft), the highest road pass in Morocco.
• Stop at panoramic viewpoints to admire the spectacular mountain landscapes.
• Pass through traditional Berber villages, where life has remained unchanged for centuries.
• Optional stop at an Argan oil cooperative, where you can see local women producing this famous Moroccan oil.

Midday: Arriving at Ait Ben Haddou

After a scenic 4-hour drive, you’ll arrive at Ait Ben Haddou, a stunning ksar (fortified village) made of earthen clay. This ancient village looks like something out of a fantasy movie – and for good reason!

A Hollywood Favorite

Ait Ben Haddou has been used as a filming location for countless movies and TV shows, including:
Gladiator, Game of Thrones, Lawrence of Arabia, The Mummy, Prince of Persia.

Exploring the Kasbah

• Walk through the narrow, winding alleys of this 800-year-old village.
• Climb to the top of the kasbah for breathtaking views of the surrounding desert and mountains.
• Visit ancient mud-brick houses, some of which are still home to local families.
• Learn about Berber culture and traditions from local guides.

Afternoon: Lunch with a View

After exploring, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the kasbah. You can try:
Traditional tajine (lamb, chicken, or vegetable)
Couscous
Fresh Berber bread
Moroccan mint tea

Late Afternoon: Return to Marrakech

After lunch, it’s time to head back to Marrakech. Enjoy the beautiful drive through the Atlas Mountains again, with opportunities for quick stops to soak in the views and snap some final photos.

You’ll arrive back in Marrakech by early evening, just in time to relax after a day full of adventure.