Ouarzazate City

Journey Through the Film Capital of Morocco: Ouarzazate

Why Visit Ouarzazate

Ouarzazate City, known as the “Gateway to the Sahara,” is one of Morocco’s most cinematic and iconic destinations. With its ancient kasbahs, desert landscapes, film studios, and oasis valleys, Ouarzazate Morocco has long attracted travelers, filmmakers, and adventurers from around the world.

Its unique atmosphere blends traditional Berber architecture with dramatic desert scenery. Many world-famous movies and series were filmed here, making Ouarzazate a dream destination for culture lovers and explorers alike.

Whether you’re traveling toward the Sahara, discovering kasbahs, or exploring movie sets, this Ouarzazate travel guide highlights the best places to visit in Ouarzazate, ensuring you make the most of this legendary region.

Traditional southern Moroccan dishes also define the region’s culture—discover them in our Foods & Drinks Guide

Ait Ben Haddou Ksar near Ouarzazate Morocco at sunset.

Kasbahs, Studios & Desert Identity

Exploring the Authentic Soul of Ouarzazate City

Ouarzazate is home to some of the most impressive kasbahs in Morocco. The Taourirt Kasbah, located in the heart of the city, once served as a powerful strategic point along ancient caravan routes. Its clay walls, intricate passageways, and traditional décor offer an authentic experience of Ouarzazate sightseeing.

Nearby, the world-famous Atlas Studios and CLA Studios showcase movie sets used in productions like Gladiator, The Mummy, and Game of Thrones. These film locations are open to visitors, making them must-see attractions for cinema enthusiasts.

The city’s charm also lies in its peaceful, spacious streets and warm hospitality. The combination of kasbahs, mountains, and palm-filled valleys creates a setting unlike anywhere else in Morocco.

Top Attractions & Filmamking Heritage

Things to Do in Ouarzazate

Ouarzazate is filled with iconic landmarks and unique cinematic experiences. Top Ouarzazate attractions include:

Ait Ben Haddou – A UNESCO World Heritage ksar featured in many films such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones.
Atlas Studios – One of the world’s largest film studios, offering guided tours.
Taourirt Kasbah – A magnificent earthen fortress in the city center.
Fint Oasis – A beautiful hidden oasis with palm groves and traditional villages.
Tizi n’Tichka Pass – A scenic mountain road connecting Ouarzazate to Marrakesh.
Skoura Palm Grove – Home to the famous Kasbah Amridil and lush greenery.

These attractions make Ouarzazate tourism attractive for travelers seeking cinematic landscapes, desert adventure, and authentic Berber culture.

Good to Know

Location

Ouarzazate is situated approximately 200 kilometers (124 miles) southeast of Marrakech and serves as a key stopping point for those traveling to the Sahara Desert.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Aït Benhaddou, located near Ouarzazate, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its well-preserved traditional mud-brick architecture and historical significance.

Film Industry Hub

Ouarzazate is known as the "Hollywood of Morocco," hosting numerous film productions and offering guided tours of Atlas Studios, where many famous movies have been filmed.

Diverse Landscapes

The region surrounding Ouarzazate features a variety of stunning landscapes, including oases, mountains, and desert dunes, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.

Cultural Experiences

Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture by exploring traditional markets, tasting regional cuisine, and participating in cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

Ouarzazate Province, MA

8:14 am, Dec 22, 2025

10°C

scattered clouds

Humidity: 46 %

Pressure: 1012 mb

Wind: 25 mph

Wind Gust: 0 mph

Clouds: 40%

Visibility: 8 km

Sunrise: 8:22 am

Sunset: 6:30 pm

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9°/10°°C 0 mm 0% 19 mph 50% 1012 mb 0 mm/h

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6°/6°°C 0 mm 0% 3 mph 61% 1017 mb 0 mm/h

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5°/5°°C 0 mm 0% 4 mph 63% 1017 mb 0 mm/h

7:00 am

4°/4°°C 0 mm 0% 2 mph 64% 1017 mb 0 mm/h

Notable Regions Around Ouarzazate for Tourism

Good to Know

Aït Benhaddou

This iconic ksar is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for its stunning architecture and historical significance, often featured in films.

Draa Valley

Located south of Ouarzazate, the Draa Valley is known for its lush palm groves, ancient kasbahs, and beautiful landscapes, offering opportunities for exploration and hiking.

Skoura Oasis

Approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Ouarzazate, Skoura is famous for its palm groves and kasbahs, providing a picturesque setting for leisurely walks and cultural experiences.

Erg Chegaga

About 90 kilometers (56 miles) from Ouarzazate, this impressive dune system is less crowded than Erg Chebbi and offers opportunities for camel trekking and stargazing in the Sahara Desert.

Taznakht

Located around 80 kilometers (50 miles) from Ouarzazate, Taznakht is renowned for its traditional Berber carpets and is a great place to learn about local craftsmanship and purchase unique souvenirs.