Sightseeing Ait Benhaddou

Ait Benhaddou: A Magical Moroccan Gem

🌐 Location: Ait Benhaddou is a historic ksar (fortified village) located in Ouarzazate province, south-east of Marrakech, Morocco.

🗺️ How to Reach: The easiest way to reach Ait Benhaddou is by road via Marrakech or Ouarzazate. You can hire a car, join a tour group, or use public transportation (combination of grand taxis and local buses).

🏞️ Scenic Route: If you prefer a more scenic route, consider the High Atlas Mountain drive from Marrakech. It’s a bit longer but offers stunning views and an insight into Berber life.

🕒 Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Ait Benhaddou is during spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November). The weather is pleasant, and the crowds are fewer.

📸 Photography Opportunities: Ait Benhaddou offers numerous photo opportunities. The ksar’s adobe architecture, the dramatic Atlas Mountains in the background, and the picturesque palm groves make for beautiful shots. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular.

🛠️ Things to Do:

  1. Explore the Ksar: Ait Benhaddou is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander around the kasbah, explore its narrow alleys, and admire the ancient architecture.

  2. Visit Movie Sets: Several movies, including Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, and Game of Thrones, have been filmed in Ait Benhaddou. You can visit these movie sets for a unique experience.

  3. Camel Trekking: For a more traditional experience, consider a camel trek through the palm groves surrounding Ait Benhaddou.

  4. Tour the Atlas Studios: Just outside Ait Benhaddou lies Atlas Studios, one of the largest film studios in the world. Many movies and TV shows have been filmed here, making it a must-visit for film enthusiasts.

🍴 Food and Drink: Try local Moroccan dishes such as couscous, tagine, and pastilla at one of the cafes or restaurants in Ait Benhaddou or nearby Ouarzazate. Don’t forget to taste the sweet mint tea!

🏪 Accommodation: There are several hotels, guesthouses, and riads available in Ait Benhaddou and nearby Ouarzazate. Some offer stunning views of the ksar or Atlas Mountains.

🌳 Nearby Attractions: If you have extra time, consider visiting the Taourirt Kasbah in Ouarzazate, the Valley of Roses, or the Draa Valley.