Ouarzazate Ait Ben Haddou excursion from Marrakech

Exploring the Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate Excursion: An Authentic Day Out

This review takes a close look at a popular full-day tour from Marrakech that visits Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate, and crosses the breathtaking Tizi n Tichka mountain pass. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the detailed feedback from travelers and the tour features paint a vivid picture of what to expect, making it a handy guide for your Moroccan adventure.

What we love about this experience is the chance to explore two iconic kasbahs, see a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy mountain scenery that’s truly jaw-dropping. Plus, the round-trip air-conditioned transport makes a long day comfortable. The inclusion of guided tours at key stops means you’ll get insight into each location’s history and significance. However, one thing to consider is that some travelers found the schedule a bit tight, with limited time at each stop, especially Ouarzazate.

This tour is perfect for those who want a cost-effective way to see Morocco’s desert fortress and film city, especially if you’re keen on snapping photos of stunning landscapes. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with long road trips and are eager to enjoy Moroccan culture and scenery without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $35 per person, this tour offers good value for a full-day experience.
• Spectacular Mountain Pass: The route through Tizi n Tichka provides some of the most remarkable views in Morocco.
• Cultural and Film Highlights: Visit Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO site, and Ouarzazate, Morocco’s film studio hub.
• Guided Tours: Includes a local guide at each major stop, enriching your understanding of the sites.
• Comfortable Transport: An air-conditioned vehicle ensures a pleasant journey across diverse terrains.
• Limited Time at Stops: Some reviews point out a rushed experience, especially at Ouarzazate.

In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Introductory Pickup and Early Start

The tour begins early at 7:30 am, with pickup offered from your Marrakech accommodation. This is a plus, saving you the hassle of navigating public transport or finding meeting points. Expect to be on the road for most of the day, with the journey itself being part of the experience, thanks to the scenic drive through the Atlas Mountains.

The Drive Through Tizi n Tichka

Your first stop is the Tizi n Tichka pass, one of Morocco’s most famous mountain crossings. Though just a five-minute stop for photos, this pass is the highlight of the drive for many. Travelers report that the views here are “spectacular,” with some mentioning that the winding roads and mountain scenery make the journey worthwhile. It’s a brief stop, but it sets the tone for the day’s adventure.

Exploring Ait Ben Haddou

Next, you’ll visit Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified village and UNESCO World Heritage site. With around two hours allocated, you’ll have ample time to wander through the ancient kasbahs, explore the narrow alleyways, and take photos of the iconic clay buildings against the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains.

Reviewers consistently highlight Ait Ben Haddou’s beauty. One traveler remarked, “We loved the way the site looks like it’s straight out of a movie – because it is.” The guide’s insights help bring this historic site to life, making the visit more than just a sightseeing stop.

The Stop in Ouarzazate

Following Ait Ben Haddou, the tour takes you into Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Africa” thanks to its numerous film studios. With about an hour here, many visitors choose to explore on their own or opt for an optional guided city tour.

However, some reviews mention feeling rushed, with only a short window to experience Ouarzazate. One visitor lamented, “We had just 15 minutes in Ouarzazate, mainly to see a carpet shop,” which left some feeling disappointed about the limited exposure to the city’s broader attractions.

Visiting Atlas Film Studios

The final main stop is the Atlas Film Studio, where many popular films have been shot. The studio offers a quick 40-minute visit (admission not included), giving a behind-the-scenes glimpse into Moroccan film production. It’s a popular stop for movie buffs, but some travelers find this part a bit rushed and not worth the additional cost unless you’re particularly interested in film.

Return Journey

After the studio visit, the journey back to Marrakech begins, with the trip concluding in the late evening. The comfort of the air-conditioned vehicle coupled with scenic views makes the long drive more bearable.

What Travelers Say

While the overall rating is solid at 4/5, reviews reveal a variety of experiences. Some travelers, like Amy, were delighted with Ait Ben Haddou’s beauty, expressing joy at seeing such a famous site. She said, “We loved it!” Others, like Annie, found the schedule tight and felt that the visit to Ouarzazate was “a bit quick,” with little time to explore beyond the main sights.

Marta highlighted the scenery but was less impressed with the stop in Ouarzazate, criticizing it as mainly a “shopping stop for carpets.” She also mentioned the heat, which is a common theme in Moroccan summer trips, and the discomfort of a long haul with limited breaks.

Practicalities and Pricing

At $35 per person, this tour offers remarkable value, considering it covers transportation, guided insights, and passes through some of Morocco’s most iconic landscapes. The tour is most suitable for budget travelers or those who prefer a guided, hassle-free experience without the need to organize logistics themselves.

However, given the duration of 12 to 14 hours, be prepared for a long day. The schedule is packed, and some travelers felt the stops could be more relaxed, especially in Ouarzazate.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This excursion suits travelers who want a cost-effective way to see Morocco’s kasbahs and film studios without sacrificing comfort. If you’re comfortable with long road trips and looking for brief but meaningful visits to key sights, this is a good fit.

It’s ideal for those who love stunning mountain vistas and are interested in Moroccan culture and filmmaking history. However, if you prefer more time at each stop or a more relaxed pace, you might find this tour a bit rushed.

The Sum Up

This Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate tour offers a compelling glimpse into Morocco’s most scenic and cinematic regions. For just $35, you access breathtaking mountain views, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a chance to see film studios that have brought many stories to life.

It’s perfect if you value guided convenience, value for money, and want to tick off multiple highlights in a single day. However, travelers should be prepared for a long, full schedule and possibly limited time at each stop, especially Ouarzazate.

If your goal is to experience Morocco’s iconic landscapes and cultural landmarks without fuss, this tour is a practical and memorable choice. Just pack some snacks and patience, and you’ll likely come away with plenty of fantastic photo opportunities—and stories to tell.

FAQs

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 7:30 am with pickup from your Marrakech accommodation, so be ready early for a full day ahead.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle throughout the day.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, allowing full refunds.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so consider bringing snacks or planning to buy food during the day.

Is a guide included during stops?
A local guide is provided at each stop, offering insights into the sites visited.

How many people will be on the tour?
The tour has a maximum of 17 travelers, ensuring a relatively intimate experience.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sun protection, comfortable shoes, and a camera. Some reviewers suggest packing a hat for the hot parts of the day.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be aware of the long hours and walking at sites. It’s best suited for those prepared for a full day of sightseeing.