Discover the Enchantment of Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou
Explore Ait Ben Haddou: A UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing stunning Berber architecture and rich Moroccan history.
Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou is an iconic symbol of Morocco's historical and architectural heritage. Nestled in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, this ancient fortified village is renowned for its impressive kasbahs, made from adobe clay and straw. As you approach, the sight of the towering structures against the backdrop of the rugged mountains is nothing short of breathtaking. The village is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its exceptional preservation of traditional Berber architecture. Exploring Ait Ben Haddou is like stepping back in time. The narrow alleys and winding paths lead you through the village, allowing you to discover small shops selling handcrafted goods, local art, and traditional textiles. Many visitors enjoy climbing to the top of the hill for unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape, especially during sunset when the colors of the earth seem to dance in the fading light. The kasbah has served as a backdrop for numerous films, including classics like 'Gladiator' and 'Game of Thrones', which adds to its allure and cultural significance. As you wander through this enchanting village, take the time to learn about its history and the Berber people who have called it home for centuries. A visit to Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou is not just a sightseeing trip; it’s an immersive experience into the story of Morocco that will leave you with lasting memories.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven, especially when climbing to the kasbah.
- Take time to explore the local shops for unique souvenirs and handicrafts made by local artisans.
- Bring water and snacks, as amenities within the village may be limited.
- Consider hiring a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the history and culture of Ait Ben Haddou.
A brief summary to Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou
- 2VVC+M3V, Aït Benhaddou, MA
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Marrakech, take the N9 road towards Ouarzazate. Continue on N9 for about 190 km until you reach Aït Ben Haddou. Look for signs directing you to the Kasbah as you approach the village. Parking is available near the entrance to the Kasbah, but you may need to pay a small fee (around 10 MAD) for parking.
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Bus
From Marrakech, you can take a bus from the CTM bus station to Ouarzazate. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours and costs around 70-100 MAD. Once you arrive in Ouarzazate, you can catch a shared taxi or a local bus to Aït Ben Haddou. The taxi ride will cost around 30-50 MAD per person and takes about 30 minutes. Buses might take longer, so confirm the schedule beforehand.
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Taxi
If you prefer a direct route, you can hire a taxi from Marrakech to Aït Ben Haddou. This option is more expensive, costing between 700-1000 MAD for a one-way trip, but it offers the convenience of door-to-door service. Be sure to negotiate the price before starting your journey.
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Walking
Once you arrive in Aït Ben Haddou, you can walk to the Kasbah, which is about a 10-15 minute walk from the village entrance. Follow the path that leads to the river, cross over, and you will see the impressive Kasbah ahead. Note that there may be a small entrance fee of about 10 MAD to enter the site.
Attractions Nearby to Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou
- River Viewpoint for Aït Benhaddou
- Ranch Cheval Ait Ben Haddou
- Ksar Ait Ben Haddou
- Ait ben haddou Travel
- Viewpoint Aït Ben Haddou
- Panoramic viewpoint Aït Ben Haddou
- Ancient Jewish Cemetery
- Troglodytes de la vallée d'Ounila
- Aussichtspunkt Ounila-Tal
- Tifoultoute Kasbah
- Atlas Studios
- Ouarzazate Private Tour Guide - Morocco Desert Tour & Ouarzazate Day Trips
- Place Al-Mouahidine
- Original Morocco Tours | Sahara Desert Trip & Camel Trekking
- Cinema Museum