Set against the dramatic backdrop of the High Atlas Mountains lies the fortified ksar of Ait Benhaddou - an ancient walled city that is now designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a favourite destination for day-trippers visiting from Ouarzazate and Marrakech, with some fantastic tours departing from the “Red City”.
I simply love Ait Benhaddou but I think its real magic is experienced in the early morning hours and the late afternoon when the crowds dissipate each day. An enchanting serenity descends upon the narrow alleys and lofty towers, making this an ideal time to leisurely wander and photograph this historic gem.
To fully capitalise on these incredible moments, staying overnight in Ait Benhaddou is essential. This is something we have done several times now and I never regret it! Thankfully, there are an increasing number of charming accommodations from which to choose, ranging from intimate guesthouses to boutique hotels. Many feature onsite restaurants, swimming pools and sprawling terraces from where you can soak up the Atlas Mountains views.
So read on to discover some of the best places to stay in Ait Benhaddou, all of which are affordable and overflowing with Moroccan hospitality.
To learn more about Ait Benhaddou, including things to see and the best time to visit, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Ait Benhaddou.
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BEST PLACES TO STAY IN AIT BENHADDOU
Don't have time to read the whole article? These are my top recommendations for the best places to stay in Ait Benhaddou:
Best hotel within walking distance of Ait Benhaddou
Best hotel in Ait Benhaddou with a pool
Best adults-only hotel in Ait Benhaddou
Best hotel in Ait Benhaddou with a pool
Nestled in the heart of Ait Boulmane lies Riad Caravane, an enchanting hotel just one kilometre from the ksar of Ait Benhaddou. Riad Caravane's location makes it the perfect base for exploring the surrounding landscapes, particularly if you have your own vehicle. Lovingly restored, this historic kasbah welcomes guests into an intimate setting decorated with local furnishings and textiles.
The fully air-conditioned kasbah contains eight individually designed rooms and suites, each with its own special charm. Guests can enjoy stunning views of Ait Benhaddou and the Atlas Mountains from the two sunny terraces while the central courtyard features a refreshing pool surrounded by lush gardens. Meals highlighting local ingredients are served in the dining room, on the terrace or by the pool.
“Our time at Riad Caravane was magical. A true highlight of our trip. Would highly recommend it to anyone.” - Rebecca (read more reviews here)
Best adults-only hotel in Ait Benhaddou
Surrounded by the rugged beauty and timeworn traditions of the Atlas Mountains is Maison d'Hôtes Tigminou, an adults-only hotel in Ait Benhaddou. Translating as "My House" in the local Amazigh tongue, Tigminou promises respite, relaxation and cultural immersion. This highly-rated Ait Benhaddou hotel comprises just seven guest rooms, each awash in the earthy textures and cool colours that characterise the region’s vernacular architecture.
Beyond the rooms, ample opportunities for unwinding abound, from lounging poolside to steeping in the traditional hammam. With its thoughtful blending of modern amenities and North African traditions, Tigminou offers guests an authentic and rejuvenating Moroccan retreat on the doorstep of Ait Benhaddou.
“A beautiful property in a fantastic location with incredible, kind and accommodating staff!” - Christopher (read more reviews here)
Best places to stay in Ait Benhaddou
Best family hotel in Ait Benhaddou with a pool
Just over a kilometre from the ancient ksar of Ait Benhaddou is Riad Paradise of Silence, which provides a serene oasis while still being close enough to all the action. This charming guesthouse features lush gardens filled with fragrant jasmine and bougainvillea, providing a peaceful backdrop for relaxing by the sparkling outdoor pool.
Inside, you’ll find a central courtyard surrounded by several guest rooms decorated with intricate tilework and canopied beds. After a day of camel trekking through desert landscapes or hiking mountain trails, guests can unwind on the candlelit terrace or savour an aromatic tagine on the garden patio.
"An oasis of calm after a few days in the desert. Tranquil and welcoming.” - Sara (read more reviews here)
Best affordable hotel in Ait Benhaddou for a budget stay
Despite its location a little distance from Ait Benhaddou, Dar Bilal receives rave reviews for its charming atmosphere and incredibly friendly owners. Mohammed and his family go above and beyond to make their guests feel at home, evening allowing pets to stay for no additional fee. For those travelling with four-legged companions, it's a rare treat to find a pet-friendly hotel in Morocco.
Earthy tones feature throughout the beautifully decorated rooms, with your choice of double or triple beds. After a day of adventures, guests can unwind over delicious meals on the panoramic terrace overlooking the Atlas Mountains. Considering its affordable prices, this is definitely one of the best budget hotels in Ait Benhaddou.
"Our stay at Dar Bilal was nothing short of magical. The charming ambiance of the hotel, coupled with its proximity to the historic Ait Ben Haddou, created a truly enchanting experience.” - Claudia (read more reviews here)
Affordable places to stay in Ait Benhaddou
Best hotel within walking distance of Ait Benhaddou
Just a stone’s throw from the gates of the fortified ksar, this Ait Benhaddou hotel is as close as it gets. From the moment you step through the arched entryway into the sun-dappled central courtyard, you’ll know you’ve arrived at a special place. The whitewashed walls and colourful textiles evoke a sense of tranquility, while the gurgling fountain provides a soothing backdrop.
Each of the guest rooms at Dar Mouna La Source features warm lighting, plush beds and private patios overlooking the property's date palm trees. Breakfast is included in stays and there’s a refreshing swimming pool where you can retreat during the heat of the day. In the evening, you can feast on flavourful Moroccan dishes on the candlelit patio or curl up with a book next to the crackling fireplace.
"This riad had a great ambiance paired with excellent service and very tasty meals. Highly recommend!” - Kimberly (read more reviews here)
Best budget hotel in Ait Benhaddou for authentic Moroccan hospitality
A great option for travellers on a self-driving holiday through Morocco is Tigmi Hamid, a highly-rated guesthouse just under five kilometres from Ait Benhaddou. Guests are warmly welcomed into an interior courtyard bathed in sunshine, with the walls draped in colourful Amazigh tapestries.
Traditional Moroccan furnishings outfit the simple yet cosy rooms, each with a private bathroom, balcony and garden or mountain views. Hearty breakfasts and mouthwatering tagines are lovingly prepared by the owners, with the food (like the rest of Tigmi Hamid) reflecting the true spirit of Moroccan hospitality.
"Upon arrival, I fell in love with this place, it exudes tranquility and I could finally experience having slow days away from city buzz. The nearest house was at least a mile away so it’s good if you’re looking for a getaway.” - Sylvia (read more reviews here)
Affordable places to stay in Ait Benhaddou
Best hotel in Ait Benhaddou with views and a pool
Kasbah la Cigogne is ideally situated just five kilometres from Ait Benhaddou and receives praise from previous guests for its gorgeous setting. From this historic kasbah, you can enjoy panoramic views of the mountains and valleys that have served as backdrops for “Lawrence of Arabia”, “Gladiator” and “The Sheltering Sky”. Aside from visiting Ait Benhaddou, guests can embark on scenic hikes through the countryside or tour the famed studios where these movies were filmed.
The rooms at Kasbah la Cigogne are beautifully appointed with traditional Moroccan designs and tadelakt plaster walls, as well as boasting air conditioning and modern amenities. During the heat of the day, you can cool off in the outdoor pool or simply relax on the terrace and soak up the enchanting atmosphere.
"A dream Kasbah! We had a wonderful stay at Kasbah La Cigogne.” - Emmanouil (read more reviews here)
Where you choose to stay in Ait Benhaddou will depend largely on if you have your own vehicle and how much you want to spend. Thankfully, there are hotels and guesthouses to suit all budgets, both within walking distance of the ancient ksar and a few kilometres away. This list of the best places to stay in Ait Benhaddou is based on my own experiences and online reviews, taking into account the feedback of previous guests.
If you're planning a self-driving itinerary to Ait Benhaddou, I recommend you rent a car in Morocco through Discover Cars, which offers free cancellation and 24/7 support. They have everything from compact automatics to manual vans, ensuring there’s something for all travel groups and driving styles.
For more information about self-driving in Morocco, check out my guide here.
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About the author
I'm Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I've developed an intense love for Morocco, its majestic landscapes, storied cities and the incredibly warm hospitality of its people. As the owner and content creator of Malika in Morocco, I share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. I am passionate about helping others plan their Moroccan travel adventures to ensure they get the most out of their North African experience.