Private day tour in 4×4 vehicle from Ouarzazate visiting the major strategic and historic kasbahs of the region. Includes Kasbah Amerhdil in Skoura,, UNESCO World Heritage site Kasbah Ait Benhaddou, ruined Kasbah Tamdaght and the partially restored 19th century Telouet Kasbah.
The route takes you on a magnificent and picturesque journey through the Ounila Valley and then back over the Tizi n Tichka pass that traverses the High Atlas Mountains.
A jam-packed cultural outing from Ouarzazate for those who want an insight into the architecture, history and tribal traditions of the southern kasbahs that ruled the caravan trade routes of a bygone era.
Group size from 2 – 5 people sharing. All ages and fitness levels. Approx 8 hours drive on a circular route. English-speaking local guide.
Departure – Ouarzazate (8.30/9.00am)
- Departure from your hotel in Ouarzazate, following the “Route of a Thousand Kasbahs” east to the grand palm groves of Skoura Oasis.
- Guided visit of the 17th century Kasbah Amerhdil, with its square towers etched with Saharan motifs.
- Views from the battlements over the palm groves and the snow-capped High Atlas Mountains.
Ait Benhaddou – UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Double back via Ouarzazate and head north to Morocco’s most famous kasbah – Kasbah Ait Benhaddou.
- Climb the ancient dusty streets to the top of the most impressive intact walled kasbah in Morocco.
- Filming location for many epic Hollywood films such as Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia.
- Lunch will be enjoyed near to the kasbah.
Kasbah Tamdaght
- A short stop at the ruined Kasbah Tamdaght, built by the Glaoui family who ruled southern Morocco for over half a century.
Ounila Valley & Kasbah Telouet
- Journey continues through the rugged beauty of the fertile Ounila Valley, once part of the ancient Sub-Saharan camel trading route before the construction of the Tizi n Tichka pass in the 1930’s.
- Final visit: the gothic-like remains of Kasbah Telouet, seat of power of Thami El Glaoui, Pacha of Marrakech during the French Protectorate until he fled Morocco in 1956, branded as a traitor.
- Inside: remarkable mosaics and tiled reception rooms, with commanding views over the surrounding valley.
- A guide will be available to explain the history.
Return via Tizi N’Tichka Pass
- Return to Ouarzazate via the spectacular Tizi N’Tichka pass, with stunning panoramic views across the High Atlas Mountains.
- The road descends back to a more arid semi-desert landscape.
Arrival – Ouarzazate (7/8pm)
Return after a jam-packed day of magnificent scenery, culture, and history.
