Marrakech Day Trip To Ouarzazate (gate to the great Sahara)

Marrakech Day Trip To Ouarzazate: Hollywood of Africa and Gate of the Great Sahara

Overview of the Day trip to Ouarzazate

Excursion To Ouarzazate, This day trip will drive us through the High Atlas by an impressive mountain road that winds through the picturesque valleys and numerous Berber villages and gemstone sellers up to Tizi N’Tichka, the highest mountain pass in the Atlas to 2,260 m.

In the south, beyond these impressive mountains covered with snow from November to April, there a different semi-desert landscape emerges, dotted along the river on the way to Ouarzazate with Kasbahs and small houses of mud and straw that contrast sharply with the emerald green fields around him. Excursion To Ouarzazate.

The visit to Ouarzazate, a modern military town, built by the French on the edge of the Sahara, including the former home of Pacha Glaoui, the kasbah of Ait Benhadu Taourirt and a picturesque old mountain town declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco and famous among film directors, and Atlas studies, making it one of the most interesting visits.

Marrakech Day Trip to Ouarzazate and Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah

A day trip from Marrakech to Ouarzazate is a popular choice for travelers looking to explore the stunning landscapes and historic sites of Morocco. Ouarzazate, also known as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” is a city located in the Atlas Mountains and is famous for its film studios, ancient kasbahs, and desert scenery. Here are the highlights of a day trip from Marrakech to Ouarzazate:

1. Depart from Marrakech: Start your day early in the morning, as it takes about 4-5 hours to reach Ouarzazate from Marrakech by road. You can either hire a private driver or join a guided tour for a more convenient and informative experience.
2. Tizi n’Tichka Pass: On your journey, you’ll pass through the breathtaking Tizi n’Tichka Pass, which is the highest mountain pass in Morocco. Enjoy the scenic drive as you make your way through the Atlas Mountains, with stops for photo opportunities.
3. Ait Ben Haddou: Arrive in Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most iconic kasbahs. This fortified village has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, including “Gladiator” and “Game of Thrones.” Take a guided tour of the Kasbah and explore its narrow alleys and mud-brick houses.
4. Lunch in Ouarzazate: Continue your journey to Ouarzazate, where you can have lunch at a local restaurant. Sample traditional Moroccan cuisine and indulge in delicious tagines or couscous.
5. Taourirt Kasbah: After lunch, visit the Taourirt Kasbah in Ouarzazate. This ancient fortress was once the residence of the Glaoui family, who were prominent rulers in the region. Explore the labyrinthine corridors, courtyards, and decorated rooms within the kasbah, and learn about its history and architecture.
6. Film Studios: Ouarzazate is known as the “Hollywood of Morocco” due to its film studios, which have been used for shooting many international movies and TV series. You can visit one of the studios and get a glimpse behind the scenes of film production in Morocco.
7. Return to Marrakech: After exploring Ouarzazate and its attractions, begin your return journey to Marrakech. Enjoy the scenic drive back, and arrive in Marrakech in the evening.

Other Day trips that you can experience from Marrakech

Day trip to Essaouira Mogador 

Day trip to Ourika Valley

Day Trip to Ouarzazate

Day trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls