5-Day Cinematic Tour of Morocco: Explore Iconic Film Locations

Day 1: Arrival in Marrakech – Exploring the City’s Film Spots

Morning:
Arrive in Marrakech and transfer to your hotel or riad. After settling in, head to the famous Jamaa el-Fna square, the bustling heart of the city that featured in films like Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation and Sex and the City 2. Wander through the square, taking in the street performers, snake charmers, and food stalls.

Afternoon:
Visit the Saadian Tombs and the stunning Majorelle Garden, both featured in Sex and the City 2. Explore the winding streets of the medina, where you’ll recognize many of the filming spots used in action and romantic films.

Evening:
Enjoy dinner at a rooftop café, where you can take in the atmosphere of the city while imagining the cinematic moments that unfolded here.

Day 2: Aït Benhaddou – The Ancient Desert Fortress

Morning:
After breakfast, depart from Marrakech and journey through the High Atlas Mountains to Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco’s most famous film locations. This ancient ksar has appeared in films like Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia, and Game of Thrones. The drive will take around 4 hours, but the stunning mountain scenery is worth every moment.

Afternoon:
Explore Aït Benhaddou’s winding streets and climb to the top of the village for breathtaking views of the surrounding desert. Stand in the same place where Russell Crowe fought his famous battles in Gladiator, and where scenes from Game of Thrones were filmed.

Evening:
Stay overnight in a traditional guesthouse or kasbah near Aït Benhaddou, where you can enjoy a traditional Moroccan dinner under the stars.

Day 3: Ouarzazate – Morocco’s “Hollywood of Africa”

Morning:
After breakfast, continue to Ouarzazate, Morocco’s cinematic hub. Visit Atlas Studios, one of the largest film studios in the world, where movies like Kingdom of Heaven, The Mummy, Babel, and Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace were filmed. Take a guided tour of the studio sets, which range from ancient Rome to futuristic worlds.

Afternoon:
Visit the nearby Kasbah Taourirt, another popular filming location. This ancient kasbah has appeared in many films, including The Jewel of the Nile and Prince of Persia. Stroll through its maze-like corridors and imagine the scenes that were filmed here.

Evening:
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Ouarzazate and stay overnight in a hotel or guesthouse. You’ll be surrounded by the stories of countless film productions that have taken place in this unique desert town.

Day 4: Sahara Desert – The Epic Adventure Setting

Morning:
Depart Ouarzazate and head toward the Merzouga Dunes in the Sahara Desert, the backdrop for films like The English Patient, Prince of Persia, and Spectre. The drive will take several hours, but the sight of the towering sand dunes is unforgettable.

Afternoon:
Arrive in Merzouga and embark on a camel trek through the Sahara, just like in the scenes from The Mummy and Spectre. Feel the adventure as you ride through the golden dunes under the vast desert sky.

Evening:
Spend the night in a luxury desert camp. Enjoy a traditional Berber dinner and listen to local music around the campfire, while imagining the desert adventures that unfolded in some of the world’s most famous films.

Day 5: Essaouira – Coastal Charm and Fantasy Landscapes

Morning:
After breakfast, depart the Sahara and return to the coast, heading to the picturesque town of Essaouira. The blue and white medina, ancient ramparts, and coastal views have made this town a favorite filming spot for movies like Othello, Game of Thrones, and Alexander. The journey will take several hours, so sit back and enjoy the changing Moroccan landscapes.

Afternoon:
Once in Essaouira, explore the medina and visit the Skala de la Ville, the ramparts where scenes from Game of Thrones were filmed. Wander through the narrow streets, and enjoy the laid-back, artistic vibe of this coastal town.

Evening:
Enjoy fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant, with the Atlantic Ocean providing a beautiful backdrop. Spend the night in a charming riad or guesthouse within the medina.

Day 6: Casablanca – The Final Stop

Morning:
On your final day, depart Essaouira and head to Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city and the namesake of the classic 1942 film Casablanca. Although the movie was filmed in Hollywood, the city still offers plenty of cinematic charm.

Afternoon:
Visit Rick’s Café, a replica of the famous café from the film, and enjoy lunch in this iconic setting. Afterward, explore the art deco architecture of Casablanca and visit the stunning Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Morocco.

Evening:
End your tour with a stroll along the Corniche, Casablanca’s seaside promenade. Reflect on your cinematic journey through Morocco, where you’ve explored some of the world’s most famous film locations.

A Cinematic Adventure in Morocco

This 5-day cinematic tour offers a unique way to explore Morocco’s most famous film locations. From the ancient ksar of Aït Benhaddou to the vast Sahara Desert, you’ll experience the same stunning landscapes and dramatic settings that have captivated filmmakers for decades. Whether you’re a movie buff or just looking for an unforgettable adventure, this tour brings Morocco’s cinematic history to life, offering a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the country’s most iconic film destinations!