Explore the Ouarzazate & Aït Benhaddou Kasbahs

4.3 (4 reviews)
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Martin
Martin S.
Dec 08, 2024
The two stops were fantastic. The trip to the movie studios in Ouarzazate was so much fun. The visit to Ait Benhaddou was amazing with an... Read more
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Overview

Two of the most popular historic towns in Morocco's southern desert are Ouarzazate and Aït Benhaddou, both known for their stunning kasbahs (old buildings once used for defense) and cinematic significance. Set close to one another, they make for the perfect duo, especially when passing through the Dades Valley and/or Valley of the Roses on the popular route between Marrakech and Merzouga. 

The picturesque town of Ouarzazate gained popularity thanks to the film industry. You have the option to tour a movie studio (Atlas Corporation Studies or CLA Studios) or visit the Musée du Cinema. Learn about the films produced in the surrounding region, such as Black Hawk Down, Prometheus, American Sniper, and Game of Thrones. Ouarzazate also has an important Mellah (Jewish quarter) close to the souks (markets) and kasbahs.

The medieval Aït Benhaddou Kasbah is Morocco's most famous kasbah and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The old ksour dates back to the 11th century when it held an important position along the trans-Saharan trade route between Marrakech, Ouarzazate, and the southern desert. Explore the old town's alleys and passageways, or climb up to the old granary for incredible views. From here, you can see the kasbah, its surrounding areas, and historic camel caravan routes.

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Traveler reviews

4 total ratings, 4 with reviews
4.3
Feature ratings
Quality of Experience
4.5
Guides, Drivers and Staff
4.8
Transport
4.8
Jerold
Jerold K.
Green Lake, WI | Reviewed on Feb 25, 2025
Only disappointment here was we couldn't spend more time at Ait Benhaddou casbah. Only had about 45 minutes in order to stay on schedule, wish we could have spent two hours. But it was adjusted due to some other activity that we asked to be changed, so we had to keep moving. Read more

Only disappointment here was we couldn't spend more time at Ait Benhaddou casbah. Only had about 45 minutes in order to stay on schedule, wish we could have spent two hours. But it was adjusted due to some other activity that we asked to be changed, so we had to keep moving.

Tips for future travelers

I wish I knew how big the casbah was before we went there so we could schedule ample time to explore it.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Lindzey
Lindzey K.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Feb 25, 2025
We spent most of this day in the van, but that was expected given the changes we made to Hakim's original itinerary to allow us to spend two nights in the Sahara. If you have flexibility, taking an extra day in this area would definitely be worth it before heading to Marrakech. Ait Benhaddou was really cool, and we would have loved to explore there for a few hours but we just didn't have time if we were going to make our evening food tour in Marrakech. Read more

We spent most of this day in the van, but that was expected given the changes we made to Hakim's original itinerary to allow us to spend two nights in the Sahara. If you have flexibility, taking an extra day in this area would definitely be worth it before heading to Marrakech. Ait Benhaddou was really cool, and we would have loved to explore there for a few hours but we just didn't have time if we were going to make our evening food tour in Marrakech.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Martin
Martin S.
Canada | Reviewed on Dec 08, 2024
The two stops were fantastic. The trip to the movie studios in Ouarzazate was so much fun. The visit to Ait Benhaddou was amazing with an excellent guide. Read more

The two stops were fantastic. The trip to the movie studios in Ouarzazate was so much fun. The visit to Ait Benhaddou was amazing with an excellent guide.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Jennifer
Jennifer O.
Morristown, NJ | Reviewed on Sep 28, 2022
I loved all of our stops… it’s a long day! Read more

I loved all of our stops… it’s a long day!

Quality of Experience
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