Great Aït Benhaddou and Ouarzazate (2024)

At 2269 meters above sea level, the Tizi N Tichka pass is not only a marvel of engineering but also holds the title of the highest pass in all of Africa. The Aït Benhaddou and Ouarzazate journey across Tizi N Tichka is a blend of awe-inspiring views and a testament to human tenacity, as the road winds and weaves through the mountainous terrain, offering unparalleled vistas of the rugged landscape.

As you travel, the scenery transforms before your eyes. The initial lush greenery of the mountain slopes gradually gives way to the stark, dramatic beauty of semi-arid landscapes and desert vistas that characterize the far side of the High Atlas. It’s a region where the sky seems to touch the earth, and the vastness of the landscape engulfs you, leaving a lasting impression of Morocco’s natural diversity.

One of the most enchanting aspects of this trip to Aït Benhaddou and Ouarzazate is the sight of Berber villages that appear to defy gravity, perched precariously on the mountainsides. These villages, with their terraced agriculture and earthen architecture, are a vivid testament to the Berber people’s resilience and their ability to adapt to the harsh conditions of the Atlas Mountains.

The journey offers not just a visual feast but an insight into centuries-old lifestyles that have remained unchanged in the face of modernity. As the landscape shifts to a more arid, desert-like environment, you will be introduced to the unique kasbah architecture that defines this region.

Kasbahs, with their turrets, grilled windows, and soft peach-colored walls, dot the landscape, providing a stark contrast to the blue sky and the barren surroundings. This architecture is not only functional, designed to keep the interiors cool in the scorching heat, but also beautiful, with intricate designs that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Morocco.

The highlight of this trip to Aït Benhaddou and Ouarzazate is undoubtedly the visit to the UNESCO world heritage site. This ancient kasbah, a fortified village, is a marvel of Moroccan architecture and has stood the test of time, weathering both the elements and the waves of modernity.

With our guided tour, you will delve into the history and architectural significance of Aït Benhaddou, exploring its alleys and admiring the ingenuity of its design. This kasbah has also captured the imagination of filmmakers around the world, serving as a backdrop for numerous films, which adds to its allure and mystique.

After lunch, the Aït Benhaddou and Ouarzazate adventure continues to the gateway to the Sahara and the film industry’s jewel in Morocco. The town of Ouarzazate has hosted the production of dozens of films, thanks to its unique landscapes and preserved kasbahs. A visit to the film studios offers a behind-the-scenes look at the movie magic that has been created in the heart of Morocco.

It’s an opportunity to walk through sets that have doubled for distant lands and historical epochs, blurring the lines between reality and cinematic fiction. For those with a bit more time, extending this trip to two days to include Ouarzazate and Skoura is an excellent way to further explore the rich landscapes and cultural heritage of this region.

This extension allows for a deeper immersion into the beauty of the Moroccan countryside, the intricacies of kasbah architecture, and the magic of the film industry. Included in your journey to Aït Benhaddou and Ouarzazate is comfortable transportation that ensures a pleasant and safe trip across varied terrains and an experienced English-speaking guide who will share insights and stories.

To enrich your experience, visits to both the Aït Benhaddou kasbah and the film studios are also included, offering a comprehensive exploration of this fascinating region. To make the most of this unforgettable adventure, remember to wear sunscreen and sunglasses to protect against the sun’s intensity, and comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven and possibly rugged terrain.