day trips from marrakech

Day trip to Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou and Telouet Valley

Full Day Trip to Ait Ben Haddou & Telouet Valley | UNESCO World Heritage | Marrakech Day Tours

Full Day Trip to the Ancient AIT BEN HADDOU KASBAH and Telouet Valley

Experience Morocco’s UNESCO World Heritage Site & Berber Culture in the High Atlas Mountains

Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah and Telouet Valley Day Trip - UNESCO World Heritage Site

Tour Overview

Scenic Atlas Mountain Drive: Begin your journey with a breathtaking drive over the Tizi n’Tichka pass, standing at 2260 meters above sea level. Enjoy panoramic views of traditional Berber villages seemingly carved into the mountainsides.

Photography Opportunities: With multiple stops along the route, capture stunning photographs of the dramatic landscapes and experience authentic village life in the High Atlas region.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: After approximately 3 hours, arrive at the magnificent fortified village of Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. Discover one of Morocco’s best-preserved kasbahs showcasing traditional Saharan architecture.

Hollywood of Morocco: Explore the distinctive adobe construction with grill-slat windows and peach-colored walls that have served as filming locations for numerous movies and TV series, including Game of Thrones and Gladiator.

Ancient Caravan Route: Your return journey follows the historic Caravan Route through the picturesque Telouet Valley. Visit the remarkable Telouet Kasbah with its fascinating French colonial influences.

Architectural Grandeur: Surrounded by palm, fig, and olive trees, this kasbah features original zellij tiles and historical artifacts, with interiors that reflect the grandeur of the El Pacha Glaoui family’s legacy.

Cultural Immersion: Conclude your day reflecting on the rich cultural and geographical diversity of Morocco. We recommend dressing in layers to accommodate changing climates throughout this adventurous exploration.

Tour Highlights

Tizi n’Tichka Pass

Cross the highest mountain pass in North Africa at 2260m with panoramic views

UNESCO World Heritage

Explore Ait Ben Haddou, a preserved Saharan ksar and UNESCO site since 1987

Hollywood of Morocco

Visit filming locations for Game of Thrones, Gladiator, and many other productions

Historic Kasbahs

Discover the architectural wonders of Ait Ben Haddou and Telouet Kasbahs

Scenic Photography

Capture stunning shots of Berber villages built on steep mountain slopes

Caravan Route

Follow the ancient trade route through the scenic Telouet Valley

Tour Route & Location

Detailed Itinerary

Morning Departure (8:00 AM): Your day begins with a convenient hotel pickup in Marrakech. Settle into your comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle as we embark on our journey toward the High Atlas Mountains.

Tizi n’Tichka Pass (9:30 AM): Experience the breathtaking ascent through the highest mountain pass in North Africa. Stop at strategic viewpoints to photograph the dramatic landscapes and traditional Berber villages.

Ait Ben Haddou Exploration (12:00 PM): Arrive at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou. Your guided walking tour will take you through the narrow corridors and staircases of this ancient defensive compound.

Lunch Break (1:30 PM): Enjoy a delicious traditional Moroccan lunch at a local restaurant with stunning views of the kasbah and surrounding valley (lunch not included in tour price).

Telouet Valley Journey (3:00 PM): Continue your adventure through the scenic Telouet Valley along the historic Caravan Route. Discover how this path connected sub-Saharan Africa with Marrakech for centuries.

Telouet Kasbah Visit (4:00 PM): Explore the fascinating Telouet Kasbah with its blend of Moroccan and French colonial architecture. Admire the original zellij tiles and learn about the El Pacha Glaoui family’s legacy.

Return to Marrakech (7:00 PM): Conclude your memorable day with a comfortable return journey to Marrakech, arriving at your hotel with lasting memories of Morocco’s cultural and natural wonders.

What’s Included & Excluded

Included in Your Tour

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off in Marrakech
  • Transport by comfortable air-conditioned minivan or 4WD
  • Professional English-speaking driver/guide
  • Guided walking tour of historical sights
  • All local taxes
  • Fuel and transportation costs
  • Bottled water during the journey

Not Included

  • Lunch and personal expenses
  • Entrance fees to Kasbahs and Cinema Museum
  • Gratuities for your driver/guide
  • Travel insurance
  • Any additional activities not mentioned

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year for this tour?

Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) offer the most pleasant weather with moderate temperatures. Summer can be hot, while winter may bring snow to the High Atlas passes.

Is this tour suitable for children and elderly travelers?

Yes, the tour is suitable for all ages. However, there is some walking involved at the kasbahs, and the high altitude might affect those with respiratory issues. Please inform us of any special requirements when booking.

What should I wear and bring for this day trip?

We recommend comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing (as temperatures can vary), sunscreen, a hat, and your camera. Don’t forget local currency for entrance fees, lunch, and souvenirs.

Are there vegetarian/vegan meal options available?

Yes, most restaurants along the route offer vegetarian options. For specific dietary requirements, please inform us in advance so we can make appropriate arrangements.

Mouhssine ELIOUJ - Licensed Tour Guide (Ref. 2898)

Your Expert Guide: Mouhssine ELIOUJ

Licensed Tour Guide (Ref. 2898 – Ministry of Tourism)

With years of experience showcasing Morocco’s cultural treasures, Mouhssine provides insightful commentary and ensures an unforgettable experience. Fluent in multiple languages and deeply knowledgeable about Berber history and architecture.

Contact on WhatsApp: +212 671-437971

Ready for an Unforgettable Adventure?

Book your Ait Ben Haddou and Telouet Valley day trip today and discover the magic of Morocco’s UNESCO World Heritage sites and breathtaking Atlas Mountains.

Book Your Tour Now