Desert
Ouarzazate
Gateway to Morocco's great south, Ouarzazate impresses with its ochre kasbahs, its legendary film studios and its breathtaking desert landscapes.
- Region
- Desert
- Ideal stay
- 2–3 days
- Best time
- March – May
Hollywood of the desert
Nicknamed for its film studios, Ouarzazate has been the backdrop for many international blockbusters.
Road of a thousand kasbahs
The region abounds in earthen fortresses and spectacular ksour, witnesses to traditional Berber architecture.
Gates of the Sahara
Ouarzazate is the ideal starting point towards the desert valleys and the great expanses of Morocco's south.
Don't miss
Aït Ben Haddou
Taourirt Kasbah
Atlas Studios
Tifoultoute Kasbah
Essential guide
What to do in Ouarzazate ?
Emblematic sites, must-do experiences and the best outing ideas to plan your stay.
The essentials
4 placesAït Ben Haddou
The most famous ksar in Morocco, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its fortified houses of ochre earth.
See on the mapTaourirt Kasbah
An imposing historic kasbah in the town centre, former residence of the Glaoui, with finely carved adobe decor.
See on the mapAtlas Studios
One of the largest film studios in the world, where many successful films and series have been shot.
See on the mapTifoultoute Kasbah
A perched kasbah with a superb panorama over the palm grove and the surrounding valley, especially at sunset.
See on the mapNature & Excursions
4 placesDades Valley
A spectacular valley of carved gorges, dotted with kasbahs and one-of-a-kind rocky landscapes.
See on the mapValley of the Roses
Known for its Damask rose fields and their spring harvest, source of a renowned artisanal rose water.
See on the mapEl Mansour Eddahbi Dam
A vast artificial lake at the gates of the town, contrasting with the surrounding arid landscape.
See on the mapRoad to Merzouga and Erg Chebbi
The classic starting point for excursions towards the great dunes of the Moroccan Sahara.
See on the mapCulture & Discovery
4 placesCinema Museum
A museum tracing the history of filmmaking in Ouarzazate, with sets and props to discover.
See on the mapBerber crafts & rugs
Local cooperatives and workshops where you can discover the traditional weaving of the region’s Berber rugs.
See on the mapSkoura Palm Grove
A lush oasis dotted with ancient kasbahs, a short distance from Ouarzazate.
See on the mapSunset over the desert
A must, when the kasbahs and surrounding landscapes blaze with ochre and golden colours.
See on the mapBest time to visit
March – May / Oct. – Nov.
Average temperatures : 24–30°C
Season GoodGetting around
In Ouarzazate, walking is ideal in the historic centre. For longer trips, taxis (petits and grands), buses and trains connect the city to the rest of the Kingdom.
Where to stay
Options range from traditional riads to boutique hotels. Choose accommodation near the medina or the main sights to make the most of Ouarzazate.
Good to know
Respect local customs, bargain with a smile in the souks and keep some change for small purchases. A word of Arabic or Berber is always appreciated.
Next destination
Marrakech