Booking a stay in Aït Ben Haddou a magical opportunity to immerse yourself in the fairy-tale charm of this Moroccan destination, away from the daytime crowds. Envision the spectacular sunset over the snow-dusted peaks of the Atlas Mountains from your cozy retreat. And, as dawn breaks, meander through the narrow lanes of this mud-brick village, a sight familiar from various blockbuster films. This blog will guide you through the twisting alleys of Aït Ben Haddou, revealing secret spots for an unforgettable stay.
Booking.comHow to get to Aït Ben Haddou in Morocco?
Nestled in the southeast of Morocco, Aït Ben Haddou sits at the Atlas Mountains’ foothills, perched on a hill beside the serene Ounila River. This setting is enveloped by a landscape of stark beauty, featuring the snow-draped peaks of the Atlas stretching towards the sky.
A stone’s throw away lies Ouarzazate, the nearest major city, renowned as the gateway to the Sahara. Venturing eastward from here, the path leads into the heart of the Moroccan sand dunes. For those navigating Morocco’s vast expanses via public transport and the iconic grand taxis, Ouarzazate emerges as a pivotal hub, offering easy access to this clay village.
Seeking an effortless visit? Consider joining an organized day excursion from the vibrant city of Marrakech to explore this ancient village. Or opt for a rental car to explore a two-day trip, visiting the stunning Atlas Mountains, kasbahs in Telouet and Tamdaght, and the film studios in Ouarzazate on the road to Ait Ben Haddou.
What is Aït Ben Haddou known for?
Aït Ben Haddou stands out as Morocco’s best-preserved ksar and a favored filming location for countless famous movies and TV shows. This winning combination cements it as a top destination for those venturing near Marrakech – and for good reason!
Read more: tips for visiting Ait Ben Haddou
The Crown Jewel of Moroccan Ksars
Travel guides and UNESCO sing praises of Aït Ben Haddou, celebrating it as the country’s most stunning ksar (or ighrem). A ksar is a fortified village designed to shield its residents and their possessions. Its strategic placement on the ancient caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech once demanded robust fortifications.
The ksar is dotted with mesmerizing kasbahs, linked by narrow passageways. These dreamy desert castles, set against the hillside, feature ornately decorated towers. Constructed from a blend of clay, earth, and straw, these structures boast remarkable resilience to harsh temperatures. Crowning the hill is a granary, safeguarded by sturdy walls.
Regarded as the quintessential representation of South Moroccan architecture, Aït Ben Haddou has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987. This prestigious recognition, coupled with the allure for filmmakers and tourists alike, ensures the village remains impeccably preserved, setting it apart in Morocco.
Iconic Filming Location: Game Of Thrones in Aït Ben Haddou
Hollywood’s love affair with Aït Ben Haddou has turned it into a stage for numerous international film productions. Blockbusters like ‘Gladiator,’ ‘Lawrence of Arabia,’ and ‘The Mummy,’ as well as scenes from the hit TV series ‘Game of Thrones,’ have all been filmed here.
This mesmerizing location served as the backdrop for the iconic city of Yunkai, one of the three great cities of Slaver’s Bay, in Game of Thrones. Fans of the series will recall the unforgettable scenes from the third season where Daenerys Targaryen, the Mother of Dragons, sets her sights on liberating the enslaved people of Yunkai. The towering clay walls and ancient kasbahs of Aït Ben Haddou provided the perfect setting for Yunkai.
The allure is undeniable. The ksar’s timeless charm, alongside the dramatic natural scenery encasing it, offers an unparalleled setting for storytelling. The contrast of the red clay architecture against the desert and mountainous backdrop transports visitors to another era or realm, be it the ancient streets of Rome or the mystical lands of Westeros.
How many days do you need for Aït Ben Haddou?
Truly absorbing the essence of Aït Ben Haddou can be achieved in just one day, or even a few hours. This is why it’s a popular choice for a day excursion from Marrakech. We, however, advocate for extending it to a two-day journey from Marrakech or incorporating Aït Ben Haddou into a longer voyage through Morocco.
Booking a night in Aït Ben Haddou is something we highly recommend. This way, you can explore the village in the early morning, witnessing its unparalleled beauty. The gentle morning glow and serene atmosphere offer the perfect conditions to discover this lively spot at its most peaceful.
7 extraordinary places to stay in Aït Ben Haddou
The most extraordinary and pleasant accommodations in Aït Ben Haddou:
#1 Riad Caravane stands out as the most exquisite place to stay in Aït Ben Haddou. The hotel dazzles with its elegant design and meticulous care. It also features a delightful outdoor pool with sun loungers, ideal for serene sunbathing sessions.
#2 Riad Paradise of Silence is another stunning lodging option with a beautiful outdoor pool. Its glowing reviews highlight the perfect location, beautiful decor, breathtaking views, welcoming atmosphere, and amiable staff.
#3 Auberge Ksar Ait Ben Haddou offers an affordable yet spectacular option with stunning views and a pool. Enjoy breakfast on the terrace with the ancient ksar as your backdrop.
#4 Kasbah El Hajja is uniquely situated within the historical ksar itself. The hotel boasts an impressive rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city, where guests are greeted with refreshing mint tea. The traditional Moroccan breakfast is a significant bonus.
#5 La Kasbah du Jardin resides in a traditional kasbah and features authentic decor. This cost-effective choice also comes with an outdoor pool and a terrace offering views of the surrounding mountains and lush palm garden.
Charming options just outside Aït Ben Haddou:
#6 Kasbah du Peintre captured our hearts on our initial visit to Aït Ben Haddou. Located in the tranquil village of Tamdaght, just 3 kilometers north, it promises breathtaking views, a hospitable welcome, evening live music, and spacious rooms with a cozy sitting area. Every detail here is just right!
#7 Auberge Ayouze, a bit north of Aït Ben Haddou, ranks as one of the area’s top places to stay. Guests rave about its homely vibe, traditional decor, exceptional host, delightful cuisine, and picturesque views in their glowing reviews.
