Exploring the Atlas Mountains, Aït-Ben-Haddou and Ouarzazate: Morocco Travel Guide
Welcome to the part of Morocco where many famous movies have been recorded. From a drive through the Atlas Mountains to watching the sunrise in Ouarzazate with a golden view full of date palms and mountains, a centuries-old fortified village, and a hidden oasis between the mountains, every turn of this region feels like a dream. Read below why these Moroccan travel highlights are worth visiting.
The driver from our riad brought us in the early morning to our car rental. We received an automatic car with the words “you might need it.” We didn’t think much of this at first, but in my next blog post, it will become clear why this was true.
Our first stop was the Carrefour supermarket, where we stocked up water, fruit, and dates for the road.
Morocco travel tip: Bring cash with you. Cash is often the only way to pay in Morocco, so please make sure to bring enough. We could only take 2000 dh each day from the ATM. Before we left, we grabbed a coffee, and then it was time to go!
From Marrakesh, we drove straight to Ouarzazate, where we booked a lovely riad with a beautiful garden. This would be our base for the coming 4 days. This road trip from Marrakesh to Ouarzazate offers incredible scenery along the way.
The drive through the mountain range was straight initially, followed by many turns and beautiful mountain views. We noticed how great the quality of the roads was, and we felt safe driving here. It was colder in the mountains, with a chilly breeze. If you visit in winter months like we did, I recommend bringing a thin winter jacket. We stopped at Tizi n’Tichka mountain pass to take in the view.
After several hours, we arrived at Ouarzazate. Riad Chay & Boutique is a family-owned riad that values hospitality, and the staff is always there to assist you. We entered our room after a warm welcome with Moroccan tea, and the view from our balcony made me instantly happy: date trees, a garden, and mountains in the back.
Visiting Aït-Ben-Haddou: Morocco’s famous fortified village
When we drove towards the main street, we first saw this impressive sight: a centuries-old fortified village made from warm orange clay, built against a hill near the Ounila River.
We parked the car on the main street and walked towards the fortified village. Aït-Ben-Haddou was significant for its time as it was on the trading route between Marrakesh and the Sahara. The ksar (word for fortified village) originates from the 11th century, but most buildings are from the 17th century. In 1987, this spectacular site became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This beautiful place has been featured in many movies and series, including Game of Thrones, Prince of Persia, and Gladiator.
After wandering around and scouting the right location for tomorrow morning, we decided to explore Aït-Ben-Haddou. You pay at the entrance, and then you can walk freely towards the top. Even though the fort gets many visitors, walking around over the steep steps, you can imagine how it was here back in the day. Just before you go to the top of the village there are a couple of restaurants where you can enjoy tea or another beverage. We sat down and took in the view.
The following day, we arrived early at Aït-Ben-Haddou. After a short walk over cobblestones, I walked over the sandbags to cross the river and found a spot in front of the fort. The sun slowly started to rise, which gave everything a golden glow. For a moment, I forgot everything, and I felt like I had stepped back in time.
Explore Atlas Studios in Ouarzazate: Morocco’s Hollywood
When staying in Ouarzazate, you can’t miss that the new part of the village is built around the movie industry, thanks to studios such as Atlas Studios. Atlas Studios was built in 1983, and The Jewel of the Nile and the 15th James Bond were soon shot after. Its most significant success came in 1998 when Gladiator was recorded here.
We visited the studio and went on a tour where we saw many different decors, including The Mummy, Obelix, and Vikings, which were recorded here. It’s a must-visit for movie lovers or anyone looking for unique things to do in Ouarzazate.
Discovering a hidden oasis village near Ouarzazate
On our last afternoon in Ouarzazate, we found an exit towards a more remote area. We were just curious, and after a big rounding turn, we suddenly saw lush greenery and water in the distance, like a hidden oasis between the mountains. This Berber village is surrounded by nature, and besides one hotel, it seems not to get many visitors. We wandered around and found a beautiful view of date and palm trees, mountains, and an oasis.
While taking photos, a group of young boys was watching us. Waleed asked if they wanted to pose with him in the photos. A bit shy but also curious, they joined and laughed with us.
That evening, we enjoyed dinner at the riad and packed for the next stop: Todra Gorge, on the way to the Sahara Desert. Read more about staying in Todra Gorge and Merzouga, on the edge of the Sahara Desert, in my next blog post.
With a smile - Nicole