• Ait Ben Ali - The ksar has been fortified since the 11th century, during the Almoravid era, although most of the existing structures date back to the 17th century, constructed using traditional techniques. Its strategic position in the Ounila Valley placed it on a significant trans-Saharan trade route, passing through the Tizi n’Tichka pass between Marrakech and the Dra’a Valley. Other fortified sites, such as Tamdaght, also lined this route.

Today, only a few families reside in the ksar, as its significance diminished in the 20th century. Most locals now live across the river in modern homes, relying on agriculture and tourism. A pedestrian bridge, built in 2011, connects the old ksar to the village, aiming to enhance access and potentially revive its use.

The ksar sustained damage in the September 2023 earthquake, with initial reports indicating cracks, partial collapses, and ongoing structural risks.

• Ouarzazate - Ouarzazate began as a small stop for African traders heading north. In the 16th century, Sheikh Abu al-‘Abaas Ahmed al-Warzazi, a local emir and father of Lalla Masuda, helped bring the Sous-Dra’a region under Saadi control.

The city once had a vibrant Jewish community, with around 170 Jews living in the Mellah in 1954. The Old Synagogue, nearly 300 years old, still stands, along with a now-unused Jewish cemetery.

Under French rule, Ouarzazate developed as a military and administrative center. The Kasbah Taourirt, once home to caïd T’hami El Glaoui, remains a key landmark, along with a church built in 1931.

Ouarzazate was on the 2006–2007 Dakar Rally route and became home to a major solar power station, connected to the grid in 2016. On November 1, 2023, it was named a UNESCO Creative City.

• Atlas Studios - Atlas Studios, located about 5 km west of Ouarzazate, is set amid desert and mountain landscapes. Many film sets remain on site, making the studio a popular destination for guided tours and tourism.

Founded in 1983 by entrepreneur Mohamed Belghmi, the studio has thrived due to the region’s stable climate and its ability to replicate diverse natural environments for film production.

• Marrakesh - Moroccan cinema includes films in Arabic and Tamazight, with its origins tracing back to an 1897 film by Louis Lumière. Modern Moroccan cinema began with Wechma (1970) by Hamid Bénani, considered the country’s first major film. Early films often imitated Egyptian melodramas until Moroccan filmmakers developed their own voice.

In 1982, Farida Bourquia became the first female Moroccan director. The Marrakech International Film Festival was launched in 2001 to support the industry. Amazigh cinema gained momentum in the mid-2000s with CCM backing.

Since 2020, Moroccan cinema has entered a dynamic phase. In 2022, it produced its first animated films. By 2023, record production levels and rising foreign investment—over 1.1 billion dirhams—boosted the industry, although Hollywood films still dominated the market.

• Hotel pickup and drop-off by air conditioned vehicle
• Professional guide
• Visit Atlas Film Studios
• Visit to Ait Ben Haddou
• Visit Cinema Museum
• Visit to Ouarzazate
• Water

• Transfer from outside Marrakesh Center will be extra charged

Embark on an exciting adventure and explore the sets of Hollywood’s most famous films on this full-day cinematic tour from Marrakech. Experience more than just typical desert trips with special access to the renowned Atlas Film Studios—one of the largest and most famous filming sites worldwide. Next, journey through history at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou, a magnificent ancient ksar featured in popular productions like Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and Lawrence of Arabia.

Enjoy stunning views as you traverse the impressive High Atlas Mountains, and immerse yourself in Moroccan culture with knowledgeable guides who bring centuries of history and filmmaking magic to life. With convenient transport from Marrakech and numerous photo opportunities, this engaging tour is perfect for movie fans, history buffs, and adventure seekers alike.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.