Excursion to Aït Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate
The Tichka pass, the ksar of Aït Ben Haddou and the gateway to the desert
On the other side of the Atlas, the landscape changes completely. No more green, but red mountains, oases and earthen villages. Aït Ben Haddou is the most famous of them: a fortified ksar clinging to its hill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It's the longest of our excursions, and one of the most spectacular.
What you'll see
The ksar of Aït Ben Haddou
A fortified earthen village, once a caravan stop between the desert and Marrakech. You cross the river and climb between the houses up to the granary at the top of the hill. The view over the valley is superb.
The film studio
Ouarzazate is Morocco's film capital. Many famous films and series were shot here. A studio tour shows you the sets up close.
The Taourirt kasbah
In the heart of Ouarzazate, the former residence of the powerful Glaoui family. Dozens of rooms, courtyards and painted decorations, all in raw earth.
How the day works
- Early morning : departure from the riad, at the time agreed with you when you book. Your driver waits for you two streets from the door.
- The Tichka pass : the road crosses the High Atlas and climbs to over 2,200 metres. Bends, villages and viewpoints all the way.
- Aït Ben Haddou : visit of the ksar at your own pace.
- Ouarzazate : visit of the film studio and the Taourirt kasbah.
- In the evening : return to the riad by the same road.
Prices and what's included
1400 DH for 1 to 3 people. 1800 DH for 4 to 6 people. The price is for the group, not per person.
Included : the private driver and the air-conditioned vehicle, there and back.
Not included : entrance fees (ksar, studio, kasbah), at your expense, lunch, shopping and tips.
Book at least 48 hours in advance. After that, the full price of the excursion is due, even if you cancel.
Our tips
Be ready for a long day
Allow about 4 hours' drive each way. You leave early and come back in the evening. Avoid scheduling it on your arrival day or the day before you leave.
Think about motion sickness
The Tichka road has a lot of bends. If you're prone to car sickness, bring something to help and sit in the front.
Bring a jacket, even in summer
At the pass, it's much cooler than in Marrakech. In winter, there may be snow.
Keep some change
For entrance fees, tea and small purchases along the way.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be fit?
No. The climb up the ksar is on foot, on steps and dirt paths, but at your own pace. The rest requires no effort.
Can we bring children?
Yes, but it's a long day in the car. It's better suited to children who travel well.
What is the best season?
Spring and autumn. In summer, it's very hot on the other side of the Atlas. In winter, the pass can be snowy, and the road is sometimes closed for a few hours.
How do I book?
Write to us with the date you'd like and the number of people. We organise everything with our partners and agree on the departure time with you. Book at least 48 hours in advance. After that, the full price of the excursion is due, even if you cancel.
Can I take part if I'm not staying at the riad?
No. Our excursions are reserved for Riad Malika guests.
Fancy more time in the mountains?
If you love the Atlas, stay there for a few nights. Our Domaine Malika is in Ouirgane, in the High Atlas, an hour from Marrakech. Guided hikes, Berber villages, a pool heated all year round. Many of our guests combine a few nights at the riad and a few nights at the Domaine.
Book your day at Aït Ben Haddou
Give us your date and the number of people. We'll take care of the rest.
Photo: frederikv, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons