Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, what you need to know

Near the imposing Atlas mountain range, in the heart of Morocco, is one of the most beautiful historical treasures appreciated by tourism: Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou; here we tell you the essentials you should know.

What is Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou

It is considered the most beautiful and best preserved of the ancient fortified Berber villas, a construction that seems like a journey back in time, but which houses a spectacular setting with a kind of castle camouflaged on a hill with an oasis in the desert.

The impact of the place has even motivated the creation of legendary films, including some such as Lawrence of Arabia, The Mummy, Gladiator or more recently Game of Thrones.

Originally before the 17th century, it was conceived with a ksar, a typical Arab castle, but strategically designed as a fortress to resist enemy attacks.

Hence its walled structure, as well as the high interior walls, the system of labyrinths and its dark entrances, designed so that only those who have been inside for a long time can see well.

The architecture , with its original Arabic finishes on the same tone clay walls, is magnificent; and in the interior still live in the same way -without electricity or drinking water- 7 families, who also preserve many of the traditions of their culture.

How to get to Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou

Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou is located in the southern part of Morocco, so the most direct way is to get to the Ouarzazate airport, which is the capital of the same province and is located about 25 km away.

Often this kasbah is also included as part of a expedition to Marrakech , although the transfer will take about 5 hours by public transport, which can also be complicated in very hot season; However, there are also alternatives through Grand Taxi or you can rent your own vehicle, which is faster and more comfortable.

Is Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou expensive?

Like most of Morocco, Ait Ben Haddou is quite inexpensive, the most expensive being the transfer.

With a bit of luck, you might not even have to pay anything on the spot, although this varies according to the season, and if you have the support of a guide, otherwise you can expect small fees (generally no more than equivalent to € 1), for passing to certain areas of the ksar.

What tourists say about the Ksar of Ait Ben Hadu

This place has been earned great prestige , because it is difficult to disappoint; The spectacular nature of its emblematic buildings, the originality of the place and the advantages that have been implemented for tourism, have allowed it to remain one of the Moroccan destinations with the best satisfaction rates.

When you visit it, you will surely find some areas that seem to be in the reconstruction phase, but do not think that it is under repair, but due to the traditional materials and the conditions of the place, this type of construction requires frequent maintenance, which has allowed to preserve in splendid condition, this enigmatic place.

Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou is one of the must-see places to visit in Morocco, a city that has transcended the borders of space-time, and that stands tall as an unforgettable destination, where you can get many of the most spectacular selfies in the whole north. from Africa.

The Kasbah has had more prominence in the world of cinema in recent years. The films Game of Thrones and Previously The Gladiator have had the Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou as a setting.