Ksar Aït Ben Haddou | ⴰⵢⵜ ⴱⴻⵏⵃⴰⴷⴷⵓ
A Living Testament to Earthen Architecture
Nestled in the Southeast, the community village of Ksar Aït Ben Haddou stands as a masterpiece of earthen architecture, seamlessly blending with its natural and cultural surroundings. Perched on the slopes of the Ounila Valley, this complex, adorned in hues of ocher and pink earth, captivates with its fortified ramparts and embellished towers.
Dating back to the 17th century, Ksar Aït Ben Haddou played a pivotal role in Saharan trade, serving as a vital hub along the trade route linking Sudan to Marrakech through the Draa Valley and Tizi-n’Telouet.
Today, Aït Ben Haddou remains alive with activity. Many of its traditional houses have been transformed into vibrant art galleries and artisanal shops. The Center for Conservation, Restoration, and Rehabilitation of Ksours and Kasbahs (CERKAS) diligently works to preserve and rejuvenate this historical gem.
Hafida Zizi
A self taught painter based in the Ksar.
Ksar Aït Ben Haddou sets on a hill with an open view on the Ounila valley.
How to get to Ait Ben Haddou ?
From Ouarzazate
Grand Taxi: Opt for a Grand Taxi for a convenient 30-minute drive from Ouarzazate, located approximately 30 km south of the Ksar.
Public Bus: Take a bus bound for Marrakech via national road N9. Alight at Tabouraht village and then continue to Ait Ben Haddou by local taxi or minibus. Though a cost-effective option, it may be time-consuming.
Tourist Transport: Numerous tourist transport agencies offer daily trips to Ait Ben Haddou, providing a hassle-free option with a duration of 30 to 45 minutes.
Duration: 30 to 45 minutes.
From Marrakech
Tourist Transport: Most visitors from Marrakech choose agencies for their journey to Ait Ben Haddou. Following the Tizi N Tichka pass, two routes are available: national road N9 or the scenic Ounila valley. Some choose a combination of both for a diverse experience.
Grand Taxi: Hire a Grand Taxi at the Bab Doukkala Bus Station to take you directly to Ait Ben Haddou.
Public Bus: Board a bus to Ouarzazate; all buses use the N9 road. Disembark at Tabouraht village, 30 km from Ouarzazate, and then proceed to Ait Ben Haddou by taxi or minibus.
Duration: 4 to 6 hours.
