Step inside a 1,000-year-old UNESCO ksar, cross the High Atlas via the Tichka Pass (2,260m) and visit the Hollywood of Africa — Ouarzazate film studios.
An early start is essential to make the most of this spectacular day. Your private driver picks you up for the journey south over the High Atlas Mountains.
Cross Morocco's highest mountain road with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, Berber villages and dramatic gorges. Photo stops along the way.
The crumbling palace of the last Pasha of Marrakech — a dramatic off-route discovery. Add 45 minutes and €10 entry.
Cross the dry riverbed on foot to enter the UNESCO-listed ksar. Climb through the six families' homes, granaries and towers to the top fortified granary for panoramic desert views.
Traditional tagine with mountain herbs at a terrace restaurant overlooking the ancient kasbah. Lunch is own cost or can be pre-arranged.
The "Hollywood of Africa" has hosted Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, Game of Thrones and The Mummy. Visit the Atlas Studios (own cost entry).
The afternoon light on the mountains is stunning. Arriving back in Marrakech around 19:30–20:00.
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"Like walking into a movie set"
Ait Ben Haddou is one of the most spectacular places I've ever seen. The Atlas Mountains drive was breathtaking, our driver was knowledgeable and the kasbah itself is simply unbelievable. A must-do!
"Game of Thrones fan dream!"
As a GOT fan I was beyond excited — the kasbah was used for Yunkai in Season 3. Standing there was surreal. The Ouarzazate studios visit was incredible too. Absolutely worth the long day.
"La kasba la plus spectaculaire"
La traversée du col de Tichka était à couper le souffle, et la kasba d'Aït Ben Haddou dépassait toutes nos attentes. Notre chauffeur connaissait tous les secrets du lieu. Merci pour cette journée exceptionnelle!
Ait Ben Haddou has featured in Gladiator (2000), Lawrence of Arabia (1962), The Mummy (1999), Game of Thrones (as Yunkai in Season 3), Prince of Persia and many more. The nearby Ouarzazate studios are used extensively for Hollywood productions.
Approximately 3.5–4 hours each way via the Tichka Pass. The spectacular mountain scenery makes the drive an attraction in itself. We recommend an early departure (7:00 AM) for the full experience.
Yes! This trip can be combined with an overnight stay to make a 2-day Marrakech–Ait Ben Haddou–Marrakech (or onwards to Merzouga) tour. Contact us to design your itinerary.
The road is generally passable year-round, but heavy snowfall (December–February) may occasionally close the pass temporarily. Our drivers monitor conditions and will advise on the best route if needed.
