Marrakech to Ait Benhaddou & Ouarzazate Day Trip Tour

Summary

High Atlas Mountains & Kasbah Adventure from Marrakech

You’ll cross mountain passes, wander ancient kasbahs, sip tea with locals, and see where famous movies were filmed—all in one day from Marrakech. Perfect if you want more than just city sights.

What’s the experience like?

The day started early, with the city just waking up as we left Marrakech behind. The road twisted up into the High Atlas Mountains, and I remember the air got cooler—almost crisp, with a faint scent of wild herbs. Our driver, Youssef, grew up in a nearby village and pointed out the little things: goats scrambling over rocks, women in bright scarves walking to market. Every so often, we’d pass a Berber village clinging to the hillside—mud-brick homes blending right into the earth.

After a couple hours and a quick stop for mint tea (the café’s cat tried to steal my biscuit), we hit that rocky stretch along the Ounila Valley. It’s bumpy—don’t expect smooth roads here—but you get these wild views of red cliffs and salt lines running through the valley. Ait Benhaddou appeared suddenly, almost unreal, its towers rising above a dry riverbed. We crossed on foot—shoes got a bit dusty—and wandered through the old ksar. There’s still a handful of families living inside; one invited us in for tea. Their living room smelled faintly of wood smoke and cumin.

Lunch was at a small place overlooking the kasbah—simple tagine, but honestly, the view made it taste better. Afterward, we drove on to Ouarzazate. The movie studios were quirky (lots of old props lying around), and Taourirt Kasbah felt like stepping into another time. By late afternoon, light slanted across the mountains as we wound back toward Marrakech through Tizi n’Tichka pass. It’s a long day, but you see so much—history, landscapes, real life along the way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Camel Ride in Marrakech Palmeraie

• Guided shared group camel tour
• Learn basics of camel riding
• Wear Touareg scarf and dress
• Explore Marrakech palm grove surroundings

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?

Yes—it’s designed for all ages. The walk through Ait Benhaddou is gentle but can be uneven in spots. Let us know if you need extra support or an infant seat.

What should I wear or bring?

Comfortable shoes are best—the kasbah paths are dusty and rocky. Bring layers; mornings can be chilly in the mountains even if Marrakech is warm.

Will there be time for photos?

Absolutely! There are plenty of stops for photos—especially at scenic viewpoints and inside Ait Benhaddou itself.

Is lunch included?

Lunch isn’t included in the price but we’ll stop at a local restaurant with great views and affordable options.

What’s included

Your ride includes pick up and drop off at your hotel or riad in Marrakech, an air-conditioned vehicle for comfort on mountain roads, and a professional driver who knows all the local stories. If you’re traveling with little ones, just ask—we’ve got infant seats available too.