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ZAK TRAVEL MOROCCO

Ait Ben Haddou & Ouarzazate Private Day Trip

Over the Tizi n’Tichka pass to the earthen ksar and Ouarzazate.

Departure
Marrakech
Duration
12 h
Distance
~400 km
From
€150/ vehicle

Hotel or Riad pickup

Ait Ben Haddou & Ouarzazate

About this excursion

Embark on one of Morocco’s most iconic overland journeys across the spine of the High Atlas Mountains via the legendary Tizi n’Tichka pass, reaching 2,260 meters of altitude. As the landscape dramatically shifts from alpine peaks to fiery ochre canyons and pre-Saharan riverbeds, you arrive at Ksar Ait Ben Haddou. This UNESCO World Heritage site is an extraordinary maze of clay towers, mud-brick ramparts, and defensive watchtowers, immortalized as a filming location for cinematic epics like Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, and Game of Thrones. Continue to Ouarzazate, Morocco’s Hollywood, before a scenic return journey under golden mountain light.

  • Traverse the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka mountain pass at 2,260 meters elevation
  • Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou on foot
  • Walk through iconic movie locations (Gladiator, Game of Thrones, The Mummy)
  • Breathtaking shifting landscapes from alpine forests to desert valleys
  • Visit Ouarzazate, "The Gateway to the Sahara", and Kasbah Taourirt
  • Luxury long-distance transport with smooth suspension, water and AC

Suggested Itinerary

The timing and stops are entirely flexible. You decide how long to linger at each destination.

  1. 07:30

    Early Pickup in Marrakech

    Depart early from your hotel or riad to make the most of this full-day adventure.

  2. 09:30

    Tizi n’Tichka Summit Pass

    Reach the mountain summit at 2,260 m; coffee stop with unforgettable panoramic views of winding mountain curves.

  3. 11:30

    Arrival at Ksar Ait Ben Haddou

    Cross the riverbed to explore the ancient earthen kasbahs, watchtowers, and panoramic rooftop viewpoints.

  4. 13:30

    Panoramic Terrace Lunch

    Dine on traditional tagines on a shaded terrace with stunning views across to the ancient clay fortress.

  5. 15:00

    Ouarzazate & Kasbah Taourirt

    Drive to Ouarzazate for a photo stop at Kasbah Taourirt or outside the renowned Atlas Film Studios.

  6. 16:30

    Golden Hour Mountain Return

    Enjoy the changing late afternoon light over the High Atlas peaks on the return drive.

  7. 19:30

    Return Drop-off in Marrakech

    Direct drop-off at your hotel or riad.

Prices by Vehicle

Fixed price per vehicle for the full day excursion. Fuel, highway tolls, parking and chauffeur included.

  • Skoda Kodiaq Comfort SUV

    Skoda Kodiaq

    up to 4 passengers 4 bags

    €150 / vehicle

  • Fiat Scudo Family van

    Fiat Scudo

    up to 8 passengers 7 bags

    €180 / vehicle

  • Mercedes Vito Premium van

    Mercedes Vito

    up to 7 passengers 7 bags

    €200 / vehicle

  • Mercedes Sprinter Minibus · 17 seats

    Mercedes Sprinter

    up to 16 passengers 16 bags

    €300 / vehicle

What’s Included

Included with Zak Travel

  • Private luxury vehicle for a 12-hour full-day excursion
  • Expert bilingual driver specialized in High Atlas passes
  • Door-to-door hotel / riad pickup and drop-off in Marrakech
  • All highway tolls, fuel and parking fees
  • Chilled bottled mineral water on board
  • Flexible stops at scenic viewpoints along the route

Not included / Optional

  • Lunch, meals and drinks
  • Optional local guide at Ait Ben Haddou (approx. 10–15€ for the group)
  • Entrance tickets to studios or Taourirt Kasbah (if visited, approx. 3–5€)
  • Personal gratuities and purchases

Good to Know

Practical travel advice and local tips to prepare for your day in Morocco.

  • Tip 01

    This is a long, memorable day covering roughly 400 km. Our vehicles have premium seating and suspension to ensure maximum comfort.

  • Tip 02

    Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat; the southern side of the Atlas is sunny and dry.

  • Tip 03

    Wear comfortable shoes for walking up the dirt paths and earthen stairs inside the Ksar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the mountain pass road winding?
Yes, the Tizi n’Tichka pass features winding scenic mountain curves. Our chauffeurs drive smoothly and gently. If you are prone to motion sickness, taking preventive medication before departure is helpful.
Can we stop for photos at the pass?
Yes! We make multiple pauses at safe scenic lookout points so you can photograph the breathtaking valleys.
Is Ait Ben Haddou suitable for all ages?
Yes, while exploring the top granary involves some steps, visiting the main lower street and riverbed is gentle and accessible.

from€150/ vehicle

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