Ait Ben Haddou is a fortified city on the edge of the High Atlas Mountains. The site is along the former caravan route that ran between the desert and Marrakech. As the trade along the trans-Saharan routes began to decline, in the 19th century, its inhabitants began moving to other locations, It’s amazing to think that a city made of mud, straw, and rocks has stayed put since the 15th century. Games of Thrones fans will be interested to know that Ait Ben Haddou is the fictional slave trading city of Yunaki.  

The mud-built city, surrounded by palm trees, is an amazing site to behold. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been featured in at least 20 Hollywood blockbusters. It is often described as the best way to delve into the past and immerse yourself in the Morocco of antiquity. While a few families still live in the ksar (small city of multiple kasbahs), most families have moved out of the ksar and into more modern housing across the river.

At the time the ksar was built, it was necessary to keep watch for approaching warring tribes. For that reason, the ksar has one of the best views in the region. From the top of the ksar, on a clear day, you can see for miles in all directions. 

Recommended Length of Stay: ½ day

Read about Abdou, a Berber fire painter Ait Ben Haddou.