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Explore the historic Kasbah of the Udayas, stroll through its narrow streets, and visit the Andalusian gardens. Enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Bou Regreg River from the kasbah’s walls. Don't miss the vibrant blue and white architecture, perfect for photos.
The Kasbah of the Udayas is located north of Rabat, Morocco, and stands atop a massive cliff overlooking the sea. The Kasbah of the Udayas was made famous by the film "Mission Impossible 5," where Tom Cruise's car racing scene, where he drives down the steps of the castle into the sea, was filmed here.
The castle's ancient and heavy gate is made of huge reddish-brown bricks, and the circular arch is engraved with exquisite Islamic patterns. It is not only the first gate of the Udaya Castle, but also the earliest gate of Rabat.
Built in the 12th century, the Kasbah of the Udayas belonged to the Arab Empire and was once occupied by Portugal and France. At that time, the Kasbah of the Udayas was a war stronghold and was difficult to break through.
The castle has a platform overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, allowing any invading enemy to be spotted immediately. On a clear day, standing on the observation post, you can almost see the entire Moroccan capital from afar. The majestic scenery is so spectacular that many photographers use this location to complete their photography work.
Suitable for travel all year round
1-3 hours
free
All day
The Kasbah of the Udayas is a fortified citadel that dates back to the 12th century, originally built by the Almohads. It holds great cultural and historical significance as a former military stronghold and a strategic point for controlling access to the region. It also represents Morocco’s traditional architecture.
The Kasbah of the Udayas is located in Rabat, the capital of Morocco, near the Oudayas Museum and the Hassan Tower. You can reach the kasbah by taxi or on foot from Rabat's city center. There are no direct metro lines to the site, but taxis and buses are readily available.
The Kasbah of the Udayas is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat. Sunset offers beautiful lighting for photography.
The entrance fee to the Kasbah is free for general access. However, there may be a small fee for visiting the Oudayas Museum inside the kasbah. Tickets can be purchased onsite.
No advance booking is necessary to visit the Kasbah of the Udayas. You can purchase tickets on the day of your visit.
You can explore the Kasbah of the Udayas in about 1 to 2 hours. If you plan to take in the views and enjoy the gardens and museums, you may spend a bit longer.
The must-see areas in the Kasbah include the Andalusian Gardens, the Kasbah walls with ocean views, and the Oudayas Museum. The picturesque streets lined with blue-and-white houses are also iconic and a great photo opportunity.
Guided tours are available, and they are typically offered in English, French, and Arabic. Audio guides may be available for rent at the entrance in various languages.
The best viewpoints are from the Kasbah walls, which provide panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Bou Regreg River. The narrow, colorful streets and the Andalusian Gardens are also fantastic for photography.
Start at the main entrance and explore the streets leading up to the Andalusian Gardens. After visiting the gardens, walk along the Kasbah walls for breathtaking views. Finish by visiting the Oudayas Museum and relaxing in one of the cafes inside or nearby.
There are no night visits or light shows at the Kasbah of the Udayas. The site is best enjoyed during daylight hours when the scenery and architecture are most visible.
The Kasbah is a popular tourist destination, but it’s not usually overcrowded. The least crowded times are in the early morning or late afternoon, particularly on weekdays.
There are public toilets near the entrance, and several cafes and restaurants inside or just outside the Kasbah offer food and drinks. There are also small shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.
The Kasbah of the Udayas has some uneven terrain and narrow streets, so it may not be fully accessible for visitors with mobility challenges. However, elderly visitors and children can still enjoy parts of the site, especially the main areas around the gardens.
Cash is required for most transactions in the Kasbah of the Udayas, including ticket purchases and souvenirs. Some cafes and restaurants may accept card payments.
There are several cafes and restaurants inside the Kasbah, offering traditional Moroccan dishes such as tagine and couscous. Additionally, there are many dining options nearby in the city of Rabat, including seafood restaurants by the coast.
Yes, many of the local restaurants and cafes around the Kasbah offer vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options. Moroccan cuisine is rich in plant-based dishes, including salads, couscous, and vegetable tagine.
Several hotels are located near the Kasbah of the Udayas, including the luxurious Sofitel Rabat Jardin d'Asr and the more affordable Hotel Belere Rabat. You can also find guesthouses and boutique hotels nearby.
Nearby attractions include the Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the Royal Palace of Rabat. You can also visit the Oudayas Museum and the nearby beaches. A day trip combining these sites makes for a comprehensive visit to Rabat.
Yes, there are souvenir shops inside and near the Kasbah selling Moroccan handicrafts, such as pottery, carpets, jewelry, and traditional clothing like kaftans and djellabas.
After visiting the Kasbah, taxis and buses are the most convenient options to continue your trip. Rabat also has a well-connected train station if you're heading to other cities like Casablanca or Marrakesh.
