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high atlas tichka & ouarzazate tour
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High Atlas Tichka & Ouarzazate Tour
Three Day High Atlas Tour: Tichka, Kasbah Telouet & Ouarzazate
Experience the Majestic High Atlas Mountains
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Morocco's High Atlas Mountains on our Three Day Tour. Departing daily from Marrakech at 9:00 AM, this expertly guided excursion takes you through the breathtaking Tichka Pass, to the historic Kasbah Telouet, and onward to Ouarzazate, known as the Hollywood of Morocco.
Tour Highlights:
- Luxury 4x4 transport with multilingual driver
- Guided tours of Kasbah Telouet and Aït Benhaddou
- Visit to an Argan Cooperative
- Exploration of the Ounila Valley
- Tour of Atlas Film Studios
Book Your High Atlas Tichka Pass Tour
To embark on this unparalleled journey through Morocco's most captivating sites contact our dedicated team:
- Book Here or Call (800) 787-8806
- Email: alecia@travel-exploration.com
Day 1: Marrakech to Ouarzazate
Your adventure begins as you traverse the High Atlas Mountains, the largest mountain chain in North Africa. Departing Marrakech, you'll pass through the charming Berber village of Aït Ourir, offering perfect photo opportunities of the Atlas foothills. As you ascend the Tizi-N-Tichka Pass Road, built by the French in the 1920s, marvel at panoramic views of fertile valleys, blue and red-colored pise villages, and striking mineral landscapes.
- The journey takes you past the olive groves of Oued Zat and the Grouka hunting reserve, remnants of the French colonial presence. As you climb higher, witness the transformation of lush crops into bare red soil. Stop for a traditional tajine lunch in the village of Tadart, savoring locally-produced olive oil or grilled sheep while enjoying incredible mountain views.
- In the afternoon, explore the magnificent Kasbah Telouet, once home to the powerful Pasha El Glaoui. This hidden gem, situated at 1,800 meters elevation, boasts intricate zellij tilework (including the unique Jewish Star of David design), preserved silks, and stunning views of the surrounding Berber village. Unlike other Southern Moroccan kasbahs, Telouet was a family residence rather than a fortress, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Glaoui family.
- End your day in Ouarzazate, where you'll enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner at a local restaurant run by a Berber family.
Day 2: Ouarzazate and Surrounding Wonders
After breakfast, journey to the lush Oasis of Fint, a palm-fringed haven nestled under the Atlas Mountains. Enjoy a one-hour walk through the oasis and share tea with the headmaster's family, immersing yourself in local Berber culture.
- Next, visit Kasbah Tifoultoute, an impressive castle-like structure on the banks of Oued Tifoultoute. Once converted into a hotel for the cast of "Lawrence of Arabia" in the 1960s, this kasbah offers panoramic rooftop views and a restaurant known for delicious mint and herb teas.
- In the afternoon, explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Aït Benhaddou, a picturesque village that once guarded the lucrative Saharan caravan route. This stunning ksar (fortified village) has served as a backdrop for numerous Hollywood films, including "Lawrence of Arabia," "Jesus of Nazareth," and "Gladiator." Your guide will lead you through the towered and crenellated kasbahs, with the option to ride a donkey across the river for a unique experience.
- As the day ends, capture the sunset over Aït Benhaddou's crenellated towers and dark red pise walls. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal of mfouar (steamed wheat), Takila (a Berber tajine), couscous, and fruit on a terrace overlooking this cinematic landscape before returning to Ouarzazate for the night.
Day 3: Atlas Film Studios and Return to Marrakech
On your final day, tour the renowned Atlas Film Studios, fondly known as "Ouallywood." Covering 30,000 square meters of desert, these studios have been the backdrop for international blockbusters since the early 1960s.
- Explore sets from famous films such as "Cleopatra," "The Mummy," "Gladiator," and "Kingdom of Heaven." Marvel at the Tibetan monastery from Scorsese's "Kundun" and the Egyptian temple from "Cleopatra."
- After lunch in Ouarzazate, embark on a scenic drive back to Marrakech through the High Atlas Mountains, concluding your extraordinary journey through Morocco's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
