Full Day Trip to Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou From Marrakech

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Discover Marrakech’s Most Popular Day Trip: Ouarzazate and Aït Benhaddou

Thinking about a full-day adventure outside Marrakech? This Ouarzazate and Aït Benhaddou tour offers an accessible way to see some of Morocco’s most iconic sights without breaking the bank. For just $27 per person, you’ll experience stunning mountain passes, a UNESCO-listed kasbah, and a chance to peek behind the scenes of blockbuster movies.

What makes this trip appealing? First, the scenery—from the sweeping High Atlas to the vast desert landscapes, the views are truly breathtaking. Second, the cultural highlights, especially walking through the ancient kasbahs and Berber villages, offer a glimpse into Morocco’s rich heritage. Third, the film studio visit adds a bit of Hollywood magic to your day.

However, it’s worth noting that some travelers find the pace a little rushed, and not all stops may meet high expectations. The included itinerary is packed, so if you prefer a slow, in-depth experience, this might feel hurried.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a cost-effective way to check off several top sights in a day, especially those interested in photography, local culture, or movie history. If you’re looking for a relaxing, leisurely day, you might prefer a more tailored or private tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Affordable Price: At $27, this trip offers great value considering the sights visited.
Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking views of the High Atlas Mountains and desert landscapes.
Cultural and Film Highlights: Explore a UNESCO World Heritage site and Ouarzazate’s famous film studios.
Efficient Itinerary: A full day packed with sights, but some travelers find it a bit rushed.
Guided Experience: Includes a professional driver and online support, with optional local guide for a small fee.
Practical Details: Pick-up from Marrakech hotels, flexible cancellation, and no need to carry extra food or water.

Looking for more options in Marrakesh? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

Your adventure begins early, around 7 AM, with hotel pick-up arranged by the tour operator, marrakech city travel. You’ll travel in a comfortable AC minivan or minibus, which ensures a smooth ride through winding mountain roads. The group sizes tend to be small and manageable, fostering a friendly atmosphere.

The drive itself is part of the charm. The Tizi-n-Tichka pass, the highest in North Africa, is a highlight, offering extraordinary panoramic views. The driver will stop at scenic points for brief photos and coffee breaks, allowing you to stretch your legs and soak in the mountain atmosphere. Expect around four hours of driving in total—so be prepared for a fair bit of time on the road, but with plenty of opportunities for photos and rest.

Tizi-n-Tichka Pass

This mountain pass is the first major stop, and it’s arguably the most spectacular part of the trip. Passing through rugged terrain, you’ll witness the dramatic landscape of the Atlas Mountains—perfect for photography. Reviewers rave about the “breathtaking views,” and one even appreciated the “fresh mountain air and panoramic vistas.”

Some travelers mention that the stops here are brief but enough to capture the essence of this impressive landscape. It’s a good chance to take memorable photos, especially if you’re into landscape photography.

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Aït Benhaddou: A UNESCO Heritage Site

The highlight for many is the Aït Benhaddou kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. This ancient fortified village is famed for its earthen clay architecture and has served as the backdrop for numerous movies, including Game of Thrones and Gladiator.

Once there, you’ll have about two hours to wander the maze-like streets, climb the walls, and get a sense of traditional Berber life. The site is beautifully restored, and walking through it feels like stepping back in time. Expect to see narrow alleyways, ancient towers, and maybe even a few local artisans selling crafts.

One reviewer noted, “The kasbah is a bit smaller than expected, but the authenticity and scenery make it worthwhile.” Another mentioned that the town’s atmosphere is charming, with great photo opportunities, especially in the late afternoon light.

There's plenty more to explore in Marrakesh

Lunch with a View

Many tour operators include a sit-down lunch overlooking the kasbah, often at a local restaurant. This offers a chance to relax and enjoy traditional Moroccan dishes while soaking in the scenery. The reviews suggest that the restaurants can be somewhat pricey, so if you’re on a budget, consider bringing snacks or just grabbing a quick bite at the site’s stalls.

Ouarzazate: The Film Capital

Next stop is Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Africa.” The main attraction here is the Atlas Studios, where many famous films and series, like The Mummy and Gladiator, were shot.

Visitors can explore the studio lots, see sets from various movies, and learn how Moroccan scenery has been transformed into ancient cities or desert landscapes. One reviewer mentioned that the studio visit provided insight into the movie-making process, making it an interesting stop for film buffs.

Another highlight is Kasbah Taourirt, a historic palace once home to Moroccan Pasha El Glaoui. Walking through its rooms and courtyards reveals a glimpse of Morocco’s aristocratic past. The one-hour visit offers a good balance between sightseeing and avoiding fatigue.

Return Journey and Final Views

On the way back to Marrakech, the tour crosses the Tizi-n-Tichka pass again, giving travelers a second chance to appreciate the stunning landscape. Brief stops are made for snacks, coffee, or just to stretch, with each break lasting about 10-15 minutes.

Travelers have noted that the return drive can feel rushed if you’re eager to linger, but overall, the schedule is well-organized to maximize the day’s highlights. You’re back in Marrakech between 6 PM and 7 PM, tired but enriched by a day full of sights and stories.

Authentic Experiences and Handy Tips

While the tour is designed to be efficient and affordable, it’s worth preparing a few things to make your day more comfortable. Wearing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses is advised, especially as parts of the trip involve exposure to the sun.

Since the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, you won’t have to worry about transportation logistics. However, bringing some cash for optional guides or souvenirs can be useful, as the local guide at the Aït Benhaddou site costs about 3 EUR.

One review highlighted that the tour does not include a local guide, so if you want a deeper understanding of the sites, a small extra fee might be worthwhile. Some travelers felt the experience was a bit rushed and that certain stops, like the film studios, could be more immersive if given more time, but overall, the tour balances sightseeing with efficiency.

Possible Drawbacks

The major concern voiced by some is the pace—with a packed itinerary, you might find yourself feeling hurried at each stop. Plus, some reviews mention that certain visits, like the restaurants or the town centers, may not meet everyone’s expectations, being somewhat commercial or underwhelming.

If you’re after a highly detailed or leisurely exploration, this tour might feel somewhat rushed. But if your goal is to see key sights in a single day without hassle, it’s a solid option.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is particularly suited for travelers who want an affordable, all-in-one day trip to some of Morocco’s top sites. It’s perfect for those interested in photography, as the scenery is stunning at every turn, and for film enthusiasts eager to see where famous movies were shot.

It also appeals to first-time visitors to Morocco who want a quick overview without the complexity of planning multiple excursions. The professional driver and online assistance add peace of mind, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, in-depth experience or are traveling with small children who might find long drives tiring, it’s worth considering a different tour or a private guide.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or nearby in Marrakech.

How long does the drive last?
Expect around four hours of driving in total, with stops for photos and coffee breaks.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and some cash if you’d like to hire an optional local guide or buy souvenirs.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but there are shops and restaurants along the route. Expect to have a lunch break at a local restaurant near Aït Benhaddou.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is a guide included at the sites?
The tour includes a professional driver but does not include a local guide at each site; there is an optional guide at Aït Benhaddou for about 3 EUR.

To Wrap Up

This full-day trip from Marrakech offers a well-priced way to see some of Morocco’s most famous landscapes and cultural sites. From the sweeping mountain views at Tizi-n-Tichka to the ancient walls of Aït Benhaddou, and the film studios of Ouarzazate, every stop has something special to offer.

While it’s a busy schedule with some pacing limitations, the experience delivers plenty of memorable moments, especially for those keen on photography or Morocco’s cinematic heritage. It’s ideal for travelers who want an efficient, value-packed day with a touch of adventure.

If you’re ready to explore Morocco’s iconic sights without fuss, this tour will give you a fantastic overview—just don’t forget your camera and a good sense of adventure.