Explore ancient kasbahs and film studios in this desert gateway. Ride camels into the Sahara, watch stars from nomad tents, and savor local cuisine in the High Atlas.
Ouarzazate, a city in southern Morocco, lies between the Sahara Desert and the Atlas Mountains. Here, you can wander through the winding alleys of Aït Benhaddou, a 17th-century mud-brick city, explore movie sets at Atlas Studios where parts of "Gladiator" were filmed, or embark on a camel trek into the nearby Sahara dunes.
Film Industry in Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate's nickname "Ouallywood" stems from its prominent role in cinema. At Atlas Studios, one of the world's largest film studios, you can tour sets and props from productions like "Lawrence of Arabia" and "Game of Thrones." The Cinema Museum in town displays costumes, cameras, and other movie memorabilia, highlighting Ouarzazate's contribution to film.
Kasbah Taourirt
In central Ouarzazate, you'll find Kasbah Taourirt, a 19th-century fortress once inhabited by the influential Glaoui family. As you explore, you'll navigate a maze of narrow passageways and staircases, discovering rooms adorned with intricate stucco work and painted cedar ceilings. Climb to the top for views of the city and surrounding desert.
UNESCO World Heritage Site: Aït Benhaddou
About 30 kilometers from Ouarzazate lies the ksar (fortified village) of Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient mud-brick city, situated on the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech, dates back to the 17th century. As you walk its narrow streets and ascend to the granary atop the hill, you'll get a sense of its past as a busy trading post.
Desert Experiences
From Ouarzazate, you can venture into the Sahara Desert. Take a 4x4 tour to nearby dunes, ride camels as the sun sets, or spend a night in a desert camp. The Draa Valley, with its green palm groves and traditional villages, provides a stark contrast to the arid desert landscapes.
Atlas Mountains
The High Atlas Mountains create a dramatic backdrop for Ouarzazate. You can hike through the rugged terrain, visit Berber villages, and take in mountain vistas. The Tizi n'Tichka pass, on the road from Marrakech to Ouarzazate, winds through the mountains, offering views of the landscape.
Local Food
Ouarzazate's cuisine reflects its desert location and Berber influences. Try a tagine, a slow-cooked stew named after the conical pot it's prepared in. The local dates are known for their sweetness and flavor. You can also participate in a traditional Moroccan tea ceremony featuring mint tea.
Climate and When to Visit
Ouarzazate has a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) have more moderate temperatures, making them popular times to visit. Summer temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F), while winter nights can be quite cold.
Getting to Ouarzazate
You can reach Ouarzazate through its international airport, which has flights from major Moroccan cities and some European destinations. By road, it's about a 4-hour drive from Marrakech over the Tizi n'Tichka pass. Buses and grand taxis also connect Ouarzazate to other Moroccan cities.
