Aït Benhaddou is a beautiful, small, ancient town, located 3,5 hours south from Marrakech. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.

The town was built almost 1000 years ago. Back then, it was located on a caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech. Aït Benhaddou  is an example of a Ksar, a group of earthen buildings surrounded by high walls, a traditional pre-Saharan habitat.

Good to know: there are two entrances. The easiest one is just crossing the bridge and walking into the city. The first thing you will notice entering the city are the many tourist shops.

If you want to avoid the many shops and people trying to sell you stuff, go down to the river (if possible) before entering the bridge. Cross the river and take the entrance on the right side of the city, walking through the gardens first! This way you don’t start off the visit with a ‘tourist trap’ feeling. 

Many film and series producers have used Ait Benhaddou as a film location.

The Mummy (1999)
Gladiator (2000)
Alexander (2004)
Game of Thrones