Captivating landscapes, breathtaking roads, and picturesque traditional villages render this day trip to Ouarzazate an extraordinary experience. Journeying through the High Atlas Mountains, we traverse the Tichka Pass (2260 m) en route to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou. Our exploration continues with visits to the Kasbah Taourirte and the Ouarzazate Cinema Museum. Situated along the route from Marrakech to the Sahara Desert, Ouarzazate holds immense cultural significance. Its name, derived from Arabic, translates to “without noise,” evoking a serene atmosphere. As you delve into the history of cinema, you’ll discover that iconic films such as “The Jewel of the Nile,” “Asterix and Cleopatra,” and “The Ten Commandments” were filmed amidst Ouarzazate’s stunning scenery. Prepare to explore the UNESCO-declared World Heritage Site, the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, alongside the Kasbah Taourirte and the Ouarzazate Cinema Museum.

Highlights:
– Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Kasbahs
– Take a guided walking tour of the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah
– Indulge in a traditional lunch at a local restaurant offering panoramic views of the Kasbah
– Visit the Ouarzazate Cinema Museum
– Venture through the Berber villages of the High Atlas Mountains and admire the breathtaking landscapes
– Immerse yourself in the traditional city of Ouarzazate

THE DAY TRIP ITINERARY TO OUARZAZATE AND UNESCO KASBAHS

Ouarzazate stands as a renowned destination for filmmakers worldwide, cherished for its unique cinematic ambiance and the quality of its light. Its cinematic prominence surged with the filming of “Lawrence of Arabia” in 1962, notably at the captivating site of Ait-Ben-Haddou, a small village near Ouarzazate now designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ait Ben Haddou, situated just 30 kilometers from Ouarzazate, is a mesmerizing Kasbah (fortified city) immortalized in numerous cinematic masterpieces, including “Lawrence of Arabia,” “Gladiator,” “The Mummy,” and “The Nile Diamond.”

Kasbah Taourirt, another fortified city near Ouarzazate, showcases remarkable clay construction with two crenellated towers, standing as a testament to Morocco’s architectural heritage. Renowned for its pristine preservation, Kasbah Taourirt offers a glimpse into the rich history and craftsmanship of Moroccan kasbahs.