The road of a thousand kasbahs: an itinerary from Ouarzazate to the desert

Ouarzazate isn’t a destination you visit for its own sake — it’s a gateway. Nicknamed the “Hollywood of the desert” for its film studios, the town mainly marks the start of the legendary road of a thousand kasbahs, towards the valleys and Morocco’s great south.

Aït Ben Haddou, the essential stop

About thirty minutes from Ouarzazate, Aït Ben Haddou is the most famous ksar in Morocco, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its fortified houses of ochre earth, which have served as the backdrop for many international productions, are best visited early morning to avoid crowds and catch the best light.

The town itself: kasbahs and cinema

Before heading to the desert, take time to visit Taourirt Kasbah, the former residence of the Glaoui in the town centre, with finely carved adobe decor. Atlas Studios, among the largest film studios in the world, rounds out the visit — a chance to understand why so many films and series chose this region as their natural backdrop.

The Dades Valley and the Valley of the Roses

Continuing east, the Dades Valley offers spectacular gorges dotted with kasbahs and one-of-a-kind rocky landscapes. The Valley of the Roses, known for its Damask rose fields harvested in spring, is the source of an artisanal rose water found throughout Morocco.

Towards Merzouga and Erg Chebbi

For travellers pushing on to the desert, Ouarzazate is the classic starting point towards Merzouga and the great dunes of Erg Chebbi — allow half a day’s drive. The Skoura palm grove, a lush oasis dotted with old kasbahs, makes for a pleasant stop along the way.

Planning your itinerary

3 to 4 days in Ouarzazate let you combine the town, Aït Ben Haddou and one or two valleys. For those wanting to reach the desert, allow one to two extra days. The best time to visit is March-May or October-November, when temperatures remain manageable for exploring.

All practical information is on our complete Ouarzazate guide.