Did you know that over 200 major Hollywood productions have been filmed in Ouarzazate, earning it the nickname “Hollywood of Morocco”? This gateway to the Sahara Desert has served as the backdrop for blockbusters like Gladiator, Game of Thrones, and Lawrence of Arabia. Beyond its film fame, this fascinating city offers visitors a perfect blend of cinematic history, stunning desert landscapes, and authentic Moroccan culture.
Getting to Ouarzazate & Planning Your Journey
Located 193 km southeast of Marrakech, Ouarzazate sits at the edge of the Sahara Desert at an elevation of 1,160 meters. The city serves as a crucial stopover for travelers heading to the desert or exploring southern Morocco.
By Air
Ouarzazate has an international airport with direct flights from Casablanca and seasonal connections from major European cities. The airport is just 2 km from the city center, making transfers quick and convenient.
Find the best flight deals to Ouarzazate or nearby Marrakech:
By Road
The most popular route to Ouarzazate is from Marrakech via the spectacular Tizi n’Tichka mountain pass. This winding road through the High Atlas Mountains offers breathtaking views but takes approximately 4 hours to complete. The journey itself is an unforgettable experience with numerous photo opportunities.
By Bus
Several bus companies operate daily services between Marrakech and Ouarzazate. CTM and Supratours are the most reliable options, with comfortable air-conditioned coaches making the journey in around 5-6 hours. Tickets cost approximately 80-100 dirhams (€8-10).
For maximum flexibility during your visit, consider renting a car:
Best Time to Visit Ouarzazate & Weather Tips
Ouarzazate has a desert climate with extreme temperature variations between seasons and even between day and night. Choosing the right time to visit can make a significant difference to your experience.
| Season | Months | Temperature | Recommendation |
| Spring | March-May | 18-30°C (64-86°F) | Highly recommended – pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes |
| Summer | June-August | 25-40°C (77-104°F) | Not recommended – extremely hot during daytime |
| Fall | September-November | 15-28°C (59-82°F) | Highly recommended – mild temperatures and fewer tourists |
| Winter | December-February | 5-18°C (41-64°F) | Good option – cool but pleasant days, cold nights |
Weather Tip: Pack layers regardless of when you visit. Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly at night due to the desert climate. In winter, mornings and evenings can be quite chilly.
Getting Around Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate is a relatively small city, but its main attractions are spread out, making some form of transportation necessary for efficient sightseeing.
Taxis
Petit taxis (small taxis) operate within the city limits and charge by meter. Grand taxis (shared taxis) can take you to nearby attractions like Aït Ben Haddou. Always agree on a price before starting your journey with grand taxis.
Car Rental
Renting a car gives you the most flexibility to explore Ouarzazate and its surroundings at your own pace. Several international and local agencies have offices at the airport and in the city center. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended if you plan to venture into the desert or more remote areas.
Guided Tours
For hassle-free exploration, consider booking a guided tour. These typically include transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and visits to the main attractions.
Discover the best of Ouarzazate with expert local guides:
Where to Stay in Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate offers a range of accommodation options from luxury hotels where Hollywood stars have stayed to budget-friendly riads and guesthouses. Most accommodations feature traditional Moroccan architecture and décor.
Luxury Options
- Le Berbere Palace – Famous 5-star hotel where Hollywood celebrities stay during filming
- Dar Chamaa – Boutique hotel with panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains
- Ksar Ighnda – Luxury kasbah-style hotel near Aït Ben Haddou
Mid-Range Options
- Riad Dar Chamaa – Beautiful riad with a cactus garden and swimming pool
- Hotel Oscar – Located next to Atlas Studios with traditional décor
- Dar Rita – Boutique hotel with rooftop terrace and Berber-style decoration
Budget Options
- Appartement City Center – Clean, basic accommodations in the city center
- Hotel Amlal – Affordable hotel with traditional décor
- Auberge La Terrasse des Délices – Budget guesthouse near Fint Oasis
Find and book your perfect stay in Ouarzazate:
Dining & Local Cuisine in Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate offers a variety of dining options from traditional Moroccan restaurants to international cuisine. Many restaurants feature stunning views of the surrounding landscape or traditional Moroccan décor.
Must-Try Local Dishes
- Tagine – Slow-cooked stew named after the conical earthenware pot it’s cooked in. Try the lamb with prunes or chicken with preserved lemon versions.
- Couscous – Traditionally served on Fridays, this steamed semolina dish is topped with vegetables and meat.
- Pastilla – A sweet and savory pie typically made with pigeon or chicken, almonds, and cinnamon.
- Moroccan Mint Tea – A symbol of hospitality, this sweet mint tea is served throughout the day.
- Berber Pizza – A local specialty with a meat and vegetable filling between layers of flatbread.
- Camel Meat – For the adventurous, several restaurants offer camel meat dishes.
Recommended Restaurants
Jardin des Aromes
Located in the center of Ouarzazate, this restaurant offers a beautiful garden setting with ambient lighting and traditional Moroccan cuisine. Their lamb shank cooked for 7 hours is legendary.
Chez Dimitri
Housed in a historic building from the 1920s, this family-owned restaurant offers a mix of Greek, Moroccan, and French cuisine. The walls are decorated with signed photos of Hollywood actors who have dined here.
La Kasbah des Sables
With a cute internal pond and lovely Moroccan traditional furniture, this restaurant offers imaginative French-Moroccan fusion dishes. The beef fillet and rabbit with peach sauce are highlights.
Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate’s unique blend of film history, desert landscapes, and traditional architecture offers visitors a variety of fascinating attractions to explore.
Atlas Film Studios
One of the largest film studios in the world by area, Atlas Studios has been the filming location for blockbusters like Gladiator, The Mummy, and Prince of Persia. The only way to explore the site is through a guided tour lasting about 45 minutes, during which guides share fascinating anecdotes about the productions filmed here.
Opening hours: Daily from 8:30 AM until sunset
Admission: 80 dirhams (€8) per person, free for children under 5
Experience the magic of cinema with a guided tour of Atlas Film Studios:
Taourirt Kasbah
One of the best-preserved rammed earth fortresses in Morocco, the Taourirt Kasbah was built in the 17th century and expanded during the 19th century. This labyrinthine structure once contained nearly 300 rooms spread over three floors. Exploring its maze-like corridors and climbing to the top for panoramic views is a highlight of any visit to Ouarzazate.
Opening hours: Daily from 8 AM to 5 PM
Admission: 20 dirhams (€2) per person
Note: The Taourirt Kasbah was damaged during the September 2023 earthquake. Check current status before visiting as restoration work may be ongoing.
Aït Ben Haddou
Located about 30 km from Ouarzazate, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Morocco’s most spectacular sights. This fortified village (ksar) made of rammed earth has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, including Game of Thrones. The best time to visit is at sunrise when the light creates a magical atmosphere and there are fewer tourists.
The ksar contains a mosque, public square, and two cemeteries dating back to the 17th century. Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Admission: Free to enter the village, 20 dirhams to enter private houses
Experience the magic of Aït Ben Haddou with an expert guide:
Museums, Cultural Spots & Local Experiences
Cinema Museum
Located across from the Taourirt Kasbah, the Cinema Museum pays tribute to Ouarzazate’s film history. The museum displays sets, costumes, props, and equipment used in iconic movies shot in the region. You’ll find reconstructed film sets, vintage cameras, and fascinating memorabilia from the city’s cinematic past.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM
Admission: 30 dirhams (€3) per person
Mellah District
The Mellah is the old Jewish quarter of Ouarzazate, characterized by winding streets and stunning traditional buildings. Exploring this area gives you insight into the multicultural history of the region. Consider asking a local to guide you through the neighborhood to discover hidden spots and hear local stories.
Place Al-Mouahidine
The main square in downtown Ouarzazate comes alive in the evening when locals gather to enjoy the pleasant temperatures. Visit after dinner to experience the family-friendly atmosphere and observe daily life in the city. The square is surrounded by shops and cafes where you can enjoy a mint tea while people-watching.
Local Markets
Ouarzazate has several markets worth exploring:
- Central Market – Located near Place Al-Mouahidine, this market sells everything from spices to fruits and vegetables.
- Craft Market – The perfect place to buy souvenirs including pottery, traditional slippers (babouches), and jewelry.
- Sunday Souk – This weekly market operates on Sundays from 6 AM to 1 PM and offers an authentic glimpse into local life.
Outdoor Experiences & Desert Adventures
The area surrounding Ouarzazate offers spectacular natural landscapes and opportunities for adventure in the desert.
Fint Oasis
Just 12 km from Ouarzazate but requiring a 45-minute drive due to rough roads, Fint Oasis is a hidden gem. This verdant oasis is spread across four small villages and offers a glimpse into traditional oasis life that has remained unchanged for centuries. The contrast between the lush palm groves and the surrounding desert landscape is striking.
Consider taking a guided quad bike tour to the oasis for a more adventurous experience. If driving yourself, a 4×4 vehicle is recommended due to the rough terrain.
Experience the thrill of quad biking to Fint Oasis:
Desert Excursions
Ouarzazate is known as “the door of the desert” and serves as a starting point for excursions into the Sahara. Several desert camps are located a few hours’ drive from the city, offering experiences ranging from basic camping to luxury glamping.
Popular desert experiences include:
- Camel trekking across the dunes
- Overnight stays in traditional Berber tents
- Sandboarding down the dunes
- Stargazing in the pollution-free desert sky
- 4×4 desert adventures
Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs
The road between Ouarzazate and Tinghir is known as the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs due to the numerous fortified mud-brick structures along the route. This scenic drive offers spectacular views and opportunities to visit several well-preserved kasbahs, including Amridil Kasbah in Skoura, one of the country’s grandest kasbahs dating back to the 17th century.
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
Safety Tips
- Ouarzazate is generally very safe for tourists, with low crime rates.
- The most common issues are petty theft in crowded areas – keep valuables secure.
- Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated, especially during summer months.
- If venturing into remote areas or the desert, always go with a guide or inform someone of your plans.
- Be cautious when taking photographs of people – always ask permission first.
Cultural Etiquette
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should cover shoulders and knees.
- If invited into a Moroccan home, remove your shoes before entering.
- When offered mint tea (a symbol of hospitality), it’s polite to accept.
- Use your right hand for eating and passing objects, as the left hand is considered unclean.
- During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
- Tipping (known as “baksheesh”) is expected for services – around 10% in restaurants and small amounts for guides and drivers.
Language
Arabic and Berber are the official languages, but French is widely spoken due to Morocco’s colonial history. In tourist areas, you’ll find many people speak basic English. Learning a few Arabic phrases will be appreciated:
- Salam aleikum – Hello
- Shukran – Thank you
- La shukran – No thank you
- Afak – Please
- Bsaha – Enjoy your meal
Practical Travel Tips for Ouarzazate
Money & Payments
- The Moroccan currency is the dirham (MAD).
- ATMs are available in Ouarzazate city center.
- Many hotels and upscale restaurants accept credit cards, but smaller establishments and markets are cash-only.
- It’s illegal to import or export Moroccan dirhams, so exchange your money before leaving.
- Bargaining is expected in markets and for taxi fares – start at about half the asking price.
Connectivity & Electricity
- Morocco uses type C and E electrical outlets (European standard) with 220V.
- Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and many cafes.
- Consider purchasing a local SIM card for data – they’re inexpensive and provide good coverage.
- Major mobile providers include Maroc Telecom, Orange, and Inwi.
How Many Days to Stay
The ideal length of stay in Ouarzazate depends on your interests:
- 1 day: Enough to see the essentials if you’re short on time (Atlas Studios and Taourirt Kasbah).
- 2 days: Recommended to visit all main attractions at a comfortable pace.
- 3-5 days: Ideal if you want to explore surrounding areas like Aït Ben Haddou, Fint Oasis, and the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs.
Responsible Travel
- Support the local community by choosing locally-run accommodations, restaurants, and guides.
- Purchase authentic handicrafts directly from artisans to help preserve traditional skills.
- Respect the environment by not leaving trash behind and conserving water, which is precious in this desert region.
- Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas.
- Learn about and respect local customs and traditions.
Ready to experience the magic of Ouarzazate? Start planning your journey today:
Experience the Magic of Ouarzazate
From walking through the same film sets that have featured in Hollywood blockbusters to exploring ancient kasbahs and experiencing the tranquility of desert oases, Ouarzazate offers a unique blend of experiences that can’t be found elsewhere. Whether you’re a film enthusiast, history buff, adventure seeker, or simply looking to experience authentic Moroccan culture away from the major tourist centers, the “Door of the Desert” welcomes you with its ochre-colored buildings, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.
The best memories of Ouarzazate often come from the unexpected moments – a conversation with a local artisan, the perfect sunset over the desert, or the taste of freshly brewed mint tea in a traditional setting. Take your time to soak in these experiences, and you’ll leave with stories to tell for years to come.
Ready to walk in the footsteps of Hollywood legends and explore the gateway to the Sahara? Book your Ouarzazate adventure today!
The above is subject to change.
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