A Weekend in the Ounila Valley

Why the Ounila Valley?

Tucked between the High Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert, the Ounila Valley is one of Morocco's best-kept secrets. Unlike the bustling medinas of Marrakech or Fes, this valley offers a slower, more authentic experience — one where time seems to stand still among ancient kasbahs and terraced villages.

Getting There

The valley stretches between Ouarzazate and the famous Tizi n'Tichka mountain pass. Most visitors arrive from Marrakech via the N9 highway — a spectacular 4-hour drive through the Atlas Mountains. You can also fly into Ouarzazate airport and drive west into the valley.

Where to Stay

Dar Brahim in Tizgui village is the perfect base. Perched on the edge of a gorge, it offers breathtaking views, homemade Moroccan cuisine, and the warm hospitality of a Berber family. Rooms start from just 30 EUR per night — an incredible value for what you get.

The dinner his wife prepared was the best meal we had in Morocco. — A guest at Dar Brahim

What to Do

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou — the iconic clay kasbah used as a filming location for Game of Thrones and Gladiator. Take a walking tour through Tizgui village with Brahim as your guide. Hike the surrounding hills for panoramic views of the valley. And don't miss the sunset from the rooftop terrace.