Day Trip to Ouarzazate and Ait Ben Haddou

Introduction

Ouarzazate and Ait Ben Haddou are two must-visit destinations on any trip to southern Morocco. These two locations offer a fascinating mix of history, architecture, and landscapes that seem straight out of a movie. Known as the “gateway to the desert,” Ouarzazate is the perfect starting point for exploring the Sahara, while Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage ksar, will transport you to ancient times with its stunning mudbrick architecture.

Itinerary:

Located at the confluence of the Draa, Dades, and Ziz valleys, Ouarzazate is a major hub for those venturing into the Sahara Desert. Known for its kasbahs and film studios, the city has a rich history and a film industry that has attracted Hollywood productions for decades.

Just a few kilometers from Ouarzazate lies Ait Ben Haddou, an impressive fortified adobe village that has served as the backdrop for numerous movies and TV shows, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Ait Ben Haddou is an excellent example of traditional southern Moroccan architecture, with its narrow alleys and towers offering spectacular views of the surrounding desert landscape.

Main Attractions in Ouarzazate and Ait Ben Haddou

Kasbah of Taourirt in Ouarzazate

The Kasbah of Taourirt is one of the most impressive monuments in Ouarzazate. This mudbrick fortress, built in the 19th century, was one of the main residences of the Glaoui family, former rulers of the region. The kasbah has more than 300 rooms, and walking through its halls gives you a glimpse of how the elites of Morocco lived in the past. The mud-and-straw architecture, with its intricate ornamental details, transports you to another era.

Atlas Film Studios

Ouarzazate is known as the “Hollywood of Morocco” due to the Atlas Film Studios, the largest in Africa. These studios have been the set for many international film productions, including The Mummy, Gladiator, and Lawrence of Arabia. During your visit, you can explore movie and TV sets still standing and learn about the impact of the film industry on the region.

Ait Ben Haddou: Morocco’s Most Famous Fortified Village

Ait Ben Haddou is undoubtedly Morocco’s most famous ksar (fortified village). Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this location has been a trading hub for centuries and served as a refuge for caravans crossing the desert.

The ksar is made up of adobe and straw houses that seem to blend into the arid landscape. As you walk through its steep streets, you’ll pass ancient granaries, mosques, and kasbahs, all surrounded by breathtaking views of the valley. From the top of the village, you’ll enjoy unmatched panoramic views.