Nestled in the Souss-Massa-Drâa region, Ouarzazate serves as the gateway to the Moroccan Sahara and is a city I think everyone should visit. The rugged beauty of its desert landscapes never fails to enchant, with centuries-old kasbahs and ksours dotting the scenery. It has provided a setting for countless films and its production studios are a must-see.
The city itself dazzles with its one-of-a-kind architecture. Red clay buildings give Ouarzazate an earthy elegance (unlike any other Moroccan city) while its lively markets appear all the more colourful against the desert backdrop.
For travellers seeking adventure beyond Marrakech's city limits, Ouarzazate is the perfect jumping-off point. Whether you want to ride a camel through the Sahara, hike dramatic gorges or visit palm-studded oases, Ouarzazate is an essential destination for tapping into Morocco's wild spirit.
In this Ultimate Travel Guide to Ouarzazate, discover everything you need to know to experience this desert city to the fullest, from the best things to do and incredible kasbah stays to my top tour recommendations.
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BEST TOURS TO/FROM OUARZAZATE
Don't have time to read the whole article? These are my top Ouarzazate tour recommendations:
One day
Multi-day
Things to do in Ouarzazate
Visit Kasbah Taourirt
This well-preserved kasbah was once home to the powerful Glaoui family, who controlled commerce flowing through the Draa and Dades valleys during the 19th and 20th centuries. But its history dates back even further to the 17th century when it was originally established by the Imzwarn family.
As you wander between the kasbah’s towering mosque, ornate palace and sprawling courtyard, you can imagine life here centuries ago. Learn about Thami El Glaoui, the former Pasha of Marrakech, who walked these halls during the French colonial era, and discover the cultural heritage of the region’s indigenous Amazigh peoples.
When independence came, the kasbah was abandoned, left to crumble as squatters crept in. But efforts began in the 1980s to preserve this relic of Morocco's past glory. Parts of the ancient kasbah have been restored with help from UNESCO, though local families still inhabit areas left untouched.
For more cultural inspiration, check out this list of the Best Museums in Ouarzazate.
Discover Ouarzazate’s cinematic heritage
Step into Ouarzazate’s world of cinema at Atlas Studios, a sprawling production facility that has hosted some of the most epic blockbusters in recent memory. From the arena in “Gladiator” to the desert planet in “Star Wars” and the city of Yunkai in “Game of Thrones”, the studio has definitely left its mark on the cinematic world.
Wander through the sets where A-list stars brought legendary characters to life and learn how filmmakers have harnessed Ouarzazate's diverse landscapes to create unforgettable worlds. With its impressive infrastructure and experienced crews, it's no wonder Ouarzazate has been dubbed the “Hollywood of Morocco”.
You can explore Kasbah Taourirt and Atlas Studios on this full-day guided tour of Ouarzazate.
Things to do in Ouarzazate
Visit the Fint Oasis
Just 10 kilometres south of Ouarzazate is this lush oasis, which springs from its desert surroundings like a mirage. Four traditional villages encircle the Fint Oasis, which has provided the setting for numerous Hollywood blockbusters like “Lawrence of Arabia” and “The Mummy”.
You can explore this desert jewel yourself by 4x4, on a guided hike or on a quad bike adventure from Ouarzazate. With the help of a local guide, you'll gain precious insight into the natural and cultural heritage of the area, as well as have the opportunity to interact with the friendly locals.
Explore the ancient ksar of Ait Benhaddou
Clustered on a hillside overlooking the Ounila Valley is this ancient ksar, which seems almost too picturesque to be real. For centuries, it was an important stop along the trade route between the Sahara and Marrakech. Camel caravans hauling precious cargo like salt and spices rested in Ait Benhaddou's shade before continuing their long journeys.
Today, Ait Benhaddou remains a remarkably intact example of traditional Moroccan architecture, so much so that it has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wandering its winding alleys feels like entering a living museum that will immediately transport you back in time. It has also provided the setting for numerous films, including "Gladiator" and "Babel".
If you’re a history buff, I’d highly recommend you explore Ait Benhaddou on a guided tour as you’ll get so much more out of your visit than going it alone. For those wanting to visit Ouarzazate and Ait Benhaddou as a day trip from Marrakech, this full-day Ait Benhaddout and Ouarzazate day trip is ideal.
To learn more about Ait Benhaddou, including getting there, things to do and places to say, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Ait Benhaddou.
Catch a glimpse of the Noor Solar Plant
This massive renewable energy project is a sight to behold, generating huge amounts of power that is fed into Morocco's electricity grid. A total of 500,000 mirrors blanket the landscape, working in harmony to harness the sun's rays.
When it was inaugurated by King Mohammed VI in 2016, the Noor Solar Plant represented a shining vision of Morocco's renewable future. With a capacity of 582 megawatts, it can power a staggering 1.5 million homes. Strategically located where the sun beams down 320 days a year, the panels tilt and turn, following the sun's daily march like a field of sunflowers.
While it’s possible to visit the plant (you need to contact MASEN directly), glimpses of its glimmering expanse can be spotted from nearby roads.
Things to do in Ouarzazate
Take a day trip to Skoura
Nestled among palm groves less than an hour’s drive from Ouarzazate, this enchanting town is dotted with centuries-old kasbahs that make it well worth a visit. The iconic Kasbah Amiridil is a must-see attraction, with its fortified architecture once gracing the 50 dirham note. Now a living museum, its winding corridors and spacious courtyards offer an authentic glimpse into the past.
While visiting Skoura, be sure to explore the Palmeraie, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that provides a habitat for more than 100 bird species. Beneath your feet, an ingenious network of underground canals bring precious water to nourish the greenery, with everything from fig to pomegranate trees flourishing here.
You can take in the sights of Skoura on this half-day mountain biking tour or spend a full day exploring Skoura, Dades Gorge and the Valley of Roses on this private excursion from Ouarzazate.
To learn more about visiting Skoura, as well as the Dades and Todra gorges, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Dades, Todra and Skoura.
Drive through the Draa Valley
The route from Ouarzazate to M'Hamid is undeniably scenic and full of awe-inspiring landscapes, often referred to as the Route of 1000 Kasbahs. As you head southeast from Ouarzazate into the Draa Valley, you'll witness its life-giving river nurturing palm groves and lush oases.
The most verdant stretch runs between the towns of Agdz and Zagora, taking in almost 100 kilometres of date palms and sparkling springs. From Agdz, you can take the faster highway or the more picturesque piste route through the heart of the oases, a journey of 3-4 hours. If you don't want to hire a car, I’d recommend this guided tour of the Draa Valley, which takes in all of its highlights.
For more information about driving the Route of 1000 Kasbahs, check out my detailed article here.
Top tours in Ouarzazate
Travel guide to Ouarzazate
How to get to Ouarzazate
Fly to Ouarzazate Airport
Ouarzazate Airport sits just 8 kilometres outside the city centre and receives multiple daily flights on Royal Air Maroc and Air Arabia Maroc. Once you land, there are taxis are ready to whisk you into the heart of town or to a hotel in the surrounding area. Booking a private airport transfer will ensure the driver is there when you arrive and save you the hassle of negotiating a fare.
Private transfer
The most comfortable and convenient way to reach Ouarzazate overland is by booking a private transfer from Marrakech, especially if you're traveling in a group. You'll get door-to-door service directly to your hotel or guesthouse, avoiding the hassle of lugging bags to and from a bus station or negotiating fares with taxi drivers.
Bus
One of the most affordable ways to reach Ouarzazate is by bus, with several daily coaches running from Marrakech and Agadir. The journey through the Atlas Mountains from Marrakech takes around 5 hours and is spectacular, to say the least. From Agadir, it’s slightly longer at around 6 hours.
To learn more about visiting Marrakech, including things to do and the most incredible riads in the city, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Marrakech.
Travel guide to Ouarzazate
Best places to stay in Ouarzazate
From beautifully restored kasbahs to charming guesthouses, Ouarzazate offers an inspiring array of accommodation options. There are more than 200 beds available in the city, with plenty more in the surrounding area.
Staying in an atmospheric kasbah is a great way to experience Ouarzazate’s one-of-a-kind architecture up close. Like staying in a Marrakech riad, this vernacular architecture is perfectly suited to the climate of the region and is entwined with its cultural heritage. For those seeking classic hotel amenities like gyms and lounges, there are a handful of larger hotels also available.
For more info on the places listed below, check out my 7 Best Hotels in Ouarzazate article.
Luxury places to stay in Ouarzazate
Mid-range places to stay in Ouarzazate
Affordable places to stay in Ouarzazate
Travel guide to Ouarzazate
Best time to visit Ouarzazate
The best times to visit Ouarzazate are from March through May and September through November when temperatures hit the traveller's sweet spot - not too hot, not too cold. Spring and autumn are ideal for exploring the area’s desert attractions, without breaking a sweat.
Summer's sweltering heat (temps regularly hit the high 30s) can be uncomfortable while winter lows (down to around 3°C) make it chilly at night. That being said, the mild daytime highs in winter (around 17°C) mean this is still a wonderful time to visit Ouarzazate, although you might not be doing a lot of swimming in the hotel pool!
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About the author
I'm Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I've developed an intense love for Morocco, its majestic landscapes, storied cities and the incredibly warm hospitality of its people. As the owner and content creator of Malika in Morocco, I share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. I am passionate about helping others plan their Moroccan travel adventures to ensure they get the most out of their North African experience.