Embark on a cinematic journey into the heart of the Moroccan desert with our Ouarzazate & Ait Ben Haddou Guided Day Trip. Departing from Agadir in the early morning, we travel east through the fascinating town of Taliouine—the African capital of Saffron, the world’s most expensive spice. We also pass through Taznakht, a vibrant town renowned for its exquisite, hand-woven Berber carpets, before reaching our first major landmark.
Arrive at the spectacular Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. This ancient, traditional pre-Saharan habitat is a marvel of earthen buildings and high defensive walls. Enjoy dedicated free time to explore the Kasbah, navigate its winding streets, and perhaps haggle for a unique souvenir at the bustling local Souk. After working up an appetite, savor a traditional Moroccan lunch in the village with the historic site as your backdrop.
Our journey continues to the "Hollywood of Africa" to visit the world-famous Atlas Film Studios. Wander through an array of iconic, decaying film sets that stand in haunting contrast to the harsh, beautiful desert environment. From there, we head to the Kasbah of Taourirt, a massive 19th-century fortress. Get lost in its infinite maze of rooms, steep steps, and passageways, admiring the uniquely shaped spaces decorated with colorful mosaics and intricate painted stucco.
As we begin our return trip to Agadir, keep your eyes on the horizon for the famous Moroccan "flying goats" skillfully climbing the Argan trees that line the route. If time permits, we will make a stop for a close-up look at this unique phenomenon, concluding a day packed with history, film legends, and stunning natural beauty.
Your Ait Ben Haddou day trip begins with a prompt 7:00 AM pick-up from your Agadir hotel. Settle into our comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle as we journey east through the fertile Souss Valley, heading toward the rugged foothills of the High Atlas.
Pass through Taliouine, the capital of Moroccan saffron, and Taznakht, renowned for its vibrant hand-woven Berber carpets. Enjoy the changing colors of the landscape as we reach the "Moroccan Hollywood" region.
Arrive at the legendary Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou. Follow your guide through the earthen streets of this ancient fortified village, explore the historic Kasbah, and discover why this site has been the backdrop for *Gladiator* and *Game of Thrones*.
Pause to savor an authentic Moroccan lunch in the village of Ait Ben Haddou. Enjoy fresh Tagines and local specialties while overlooking the ancient mud-brick architecture before we head toward the cinematic heart of Ouarzazate.
Explore the Atlas Film Studios to see iconic movie sets and props. We’ll also visit the Kasbah Taourirt in Ouarzazate, a 19th-century masterpiece of maze-like rooms and exquisite mosaic tiles once owned by the Glaoui family.
After a full day of history and cinematic magic, we begin our relaxing drive back to the coast. Keep your camera ready for the famous flying goats in the Argan trees as we return you safely to your Agadir hotel in the evening.