Ait Benhaddou Ksar

If you've seen a film set in the desert, you've probably seen Ait Benhaddou. Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, Game of Thrones — the ksar has played everything from ancient Egypt to biblical Jerusalem. UNESCO listed it in 1987. The ksar is a fortified village, not a single building. Families still live in some structures, though most have moved to the modern village across the river. The pisé walls — mud and straw dried in the sun — are constantly deteriorating; the residents constantly repair. Cross the river on the stepping stones (or the footbridge when the water is high). The climb to the summit passes merchants selling fossils and "antiques." The view from the top takes in the palmery below and the High Atlas behind. Come early; the tour buses arrive by 10am. Best time: Early morning or late afternoon Allow: 1.5-2 hours Combine with: Ouarzazate or the Ounila Valley road