Morocco is a destination for tourists from different parts of the world. Its rich cultural heritage and attractive historical monuments make Morocco a wonderful place worth visiting such as Ait Benhaddou.
This incredible richness is the result of many different factors such as its geographical location, which has allowed the meeting of many influences like Arabs, African, Andalusian, Amazighs and Mediterranean, making Morocco a great place to find a wide range of colorful cultures.
One of the most fascinating destination in Morocco worth visiting is Southern Morocco where you’ll find lots of stunning buildings that reflect the uniqueness of the Moroccan people.
Plan your trip to Ait Benhaddou in Ouarzazate – the film capital of Morocco- to see incredible historical buildings.
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Where it is located?
Nestled amidst a valley close to the foothills of the Atlas Mountains near Ouarzazate, a world renowned tourist attraction in Morocco, is the Ait Benhaddou.
Ait Benhaddou in Ouarzazate is renowned as a popular film making location and has made feature appearances in several Hollywood films including Lawrence of Arabia, The Last Temptation of Christ and Sodome and Gomorrah.
Historically, Ait Benhaddou once served as a trade route for traders carrying slaves and gold while going to Timbuktu or the Western Sahara.
Things to do
The village of Ait Benhaddou is home to plenty of lovely Kasbahs and Ksour earth houses.
Due to its great historical importance, this amazing destination is proclaimed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and has attracted hundreds of thousands of tourists to the southern part of the country who want to see magnificent structures.
Take a stroll around the maze of narrow street and admire the beautifully designed sandstone colored towers and walls that once guarded the caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech.
Visit the riverbed of the Mellah (old Jewish quarters) to relax and unwind amidst the several lovely palm groves and trees growing along the river bank.
You can either explore the ancient Kasbahs (fortified house) by foot or ride a donkey.
For a chance to catch stunning views of the surrounding palmeraie and hammada (stony desert), climb all the way to the top.
There are plenty of shops here where tourists can find several gift items, souvenirs and much more.
Make sure to bring your camera and extra batteries and take remarkable pictures of this spectacular site with family and friends.
Cross the Oued (dry riverbed) and enter into the Ksars, individual plain earth houses, to discover the uniqueness and creativity of Moroccans. Ait Benhaddou is certainly your best destination if you want to see fascinating historical buildings and unique charm.
Where to eat
Ait Benhaddou is home to a lot of incredible restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Moroccan meal.
One of the top restaurants offering great views of the Kasbah and incredible menu is the Chez Brahim with some of the dishes served here include tajine, salads and dessert.
Another place to try out is the Hotel-Restaurant Baraka where you’ll have a taste of delectable local dishes.
For lunch or tea with a view, go to the Auberge Café-Restaurant for fine selection of meals including omelettes, couscous, and kebabs.
Places to stay
The ancient village of Ait Benhaddou is one of the most visited tourist destination in Morocco. Here you will find some amazing budget accommodations offering great hospitality to guests.
If you are looking for a hotel that offers exceptional service, you should consider visiting any of these places – Hotel La Kasbah, and Hotel de luxe a Ouarzazate. A night spent in any of these hotels will definitely be exceptional
When to visit
Ait Benhaddou is considered a year round destination. If you are planning on visiting this spectacular village, keep in mind that sunrise is the best time of the day to discover the colorful, golden ray glisten above Ait Benhaddou.
You can take stunning pictures with friends and family at this time
Visitors can hire a taxi from Ouarzazate to Ait Benhaddou. For a chance to fully explore this amazing tourist destination in Morocco, it is best to organize a day trip with the help of an experienced guide. Ait Benhaddou is definitely a place not to miss out on visiting.