This day trips from marrakech to atlas mountains from Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah is perfect for travelers short on time but eager to experience the magic of Morocco’s desert landscape. Explore the iconic Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famously featured in numerous Hollywood blockbusters.
Travel in comfort by 4WD or minivan, following ancient caravan routes through the High Atlas range. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush oases, impressive kasbahs, and fortified Berber villages. Admire the architectural wonder of Ait Ben Haddou, a cultural treasure recognized by UNESCO and often used as a backdrop for movies.
Next, visit the historic Taourirt Kasbah in Ouarzazate, a grand fortified residence with a rich past. During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to try camel riding for a bit of fun and laughter, experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the Moroccan desert (camel riding not included in the price).
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the High Atlas Mountains on this unforgettable Imlil day trip from Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou.
7:30 AM – Pick-Up from Marrakech
Your Day Trips from Marrakech to Atlas Mountains begins with an early morning pick-up from your accommodation in Marrakech. Set out on a scenic drive in a comfortable 4WD or minivan, heading towards the High Atlas Mountains. Enjoy views of traditional Berber villages and the stunning landscape as you travel along the historic caravan routes.
9:30 AM – Tizi n’Tichka Pass
Cross the winding Tizi n’Tichka Pass, the highest road in Morocco at an altitude of 2,260 meters. Take in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, with opportunities to stop for photos and admire the breathtaking scenery.
11:00 AM – Arrival at Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah
Arrive at Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most iconic landmarks. This ancient fortified village, made entirely of clay, has served as the backdrop for many famous films and TV series. Explore its narrow streets and climb to the top for a stunning view of the surrounding desert and palm groves.
12:30 PM – Free Time for Exploration
Spend some free time exploring Ait Ben Haddou at your own pace. Wander through its historic alleys, visit the local shops, or take photos of this extraordinary site.
1:30 PM – Lunch at a Local Restaurant
Enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch at a local restaurant near Ait Ben Haddou. Savor dishes such as Tagine, couscous, and fresh salads while enjoying the relaxed desert atmosphere.
3:00 PM – Visit Taourirt Kasbah in Ouarzazate
Head to Ouarzazate to visit the grand Taourirt Kasbah, a historic fortified residence that once belonged to the powerful Glaoui family. Take a guided tour of the kasbah, marveling at its intricate architecture and learning about its importance in Moroccan history.
4:00 PM – Optional Camel Ride (Not Included in Price)
Before heading back to Marrakech, enjoy an optional camel ride for a bit of fun. Experience the traditional mode of desert transport, riding through the dunes while soaking in the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
4:30 PM – Departure for Marrakech
After a day of exploring the High Atlas Mountains and its treasures, start your journey back to Marrakech. Relax during the comfortable drive through the scenic landscapes.
7:00 PM – Return to Marrakech
Arrive back in Marrakech and be dropped off at your accommodation, bringing your High Atlas Mountains day trip to a close.
This itinerary offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and adventure, making it a memorable experience in Morocco’s High Atlas region
The itinerary you see above is only a sample of what your Morocco Holiday could look like. Each traveler has different preferences, and we believe your tour should reflect that. If this plan doesn’t match what you’re envisioning, just let us know, we’ll adjust the route, pace, and activities to suit your interests and the time you have available.
The final price of the tour is depending:
Transportation costs are fixed, so the more people sharing the vehicle, the lower the price per person becomes. For an exact, detailed quote, simply contact us; we’ll be happy to provide one.
Check out our most popular Morocco tour routes:
Marrakech Tours, Fes Tours, Casablanca Tours, Tangier Tours, Errachidia Tours and Ouarzazate Tours, each offering a unique way to discover Morocco.
We recommend booking at least 3 to 4 months in advance if your travel falls during peak season (Spring/Autumn), especially if you want to secure the best desert camps and specific Riad accommodations.
Yes, absolutely! Every tour is private, allowing you to fully customize your itinerary. Whether you prefer more time in the desert or wish to visit the Atlantic coast before returning, we can tailor the route to your interests.
The most popular desert tours are 3 to 4 days. The 3-day tour is the minimum needed to reach the major Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga and return comfortably to Marrakech. Shorter tours often go to Zagora, which has smaller dunes.
Our drivers will drop you off at the nearest accessible point to your Riad/hotel (as cars are restricted inside the medina). We recommend using an official guide or your Riad staff for initial navigation assistance within the city walls.
While rare, snow can occasionally affect the Tizi n’Tichka Pass (2260m) in winter. Our drivers are experienced in mountain driving and will always prioritize your safety, adjusting the route or timing if needed.
Absolutely. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.) at the time of booking, and we will ensure the hotels and desert camps are prepared for your needs.
Most standard tours focus on the Desert and Imperial Cities (like Fez). However, you can easily customize your tour to include coastal towns like Essaouira or Agadir.
