This excursion explores one of the most beautiful valleys of the High Atlas, and provides a true taste of southern Morocco. It is, however, a long day trip, with a total of six hours’ driving.

We follow the route of the ancient caravans who once transported salt, copper and other rare commodities from the southern Sahara to Marrakech. En route, we visit the historic earthern Kasbahs of Telouet and Ait Ben Haddou.

Suggested itinerary:

• – Depart from the Riad after breakfast, around 8am.
• – Drive past authentic Berber villages, where we can stop and take photos. We will also stop at the Tichka pass to admire the magnificent landscape.
• – Visit the Kasbah of Telouet, former residence of the Glaoui of Marrakech, around 11am.
• – Arrive at Ait Ben Haddou around 2pm and visit the Kasbah.
• – Option 1: Lunch at the Kasbah, departure from Ait Ben Haddou at 3pm and return to the Riad between 6pm and 7pm.

• – Option 2: Continue 21km to Ouarzazate to visit Kasbah Taourirte and have lunch at a restaurant in front of the Kasbah. After lunch, you can visit the cinema studios near Ouarzazate. Several movies have been filmed in the region, including Lawrence of Arabia, Kundun, Tea in the Sahara and The Last Temptation of Christ. Departure from Ouarzazate between 4pm-5pm and return to the Riad between 9pm and 9.30pm.

On the return journey we will stop in the village of Tadarte for tea.