Ouarzazate, in southern Morocco, is known for its landscapes, its history and its role in film-making. It is called “the gateway to the desert”. Here is what to see and do.
1. Taourirt Kasbah
One of the city’s landmark monuments: a mud-brick fortress, once home to the Glaoui family, among the most powerful in the south. You can wander its alleys, decorated rooms and panoramic terraces.
2. Ait Ben Haddou
About thirty kilometres away, this fortified ksar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the set of films such as Gladiator and The Mummy. A must for history and photography lovers.
3. Atlas Studios
Thanks to its arid landscapes, Ouarzazate is a film capital. Atlas Studios, among the largest in the world, has hosted productions such as Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven and Prince of Persia. You can tour the sets.
4. The Valley of Roses
Around Kalaat M’Gouna, about 90 km away, the valley is famous for its roses, which bloom in spring, and for rose water and oils. Ideal for walks and for learning about traditional distillation.
5. Ouarzazate lake
The large reservoir of the El Mansour Eddahbi dam, near the city, offers beautiful scenery and a peaceful atmosphere.
6. Tifoultoute Kasbah
Less famous than Taourirt but just as picturesque, just outside the city.
7. The Draa Valley
Palm groves, mud-brick villages and vast desert landscapes: perfect for 4×4 or camel trips towards Zagora.
8. The Sahara Desert
Ouarzazate is a common starting point for desert tours to Zagora or Merzouga, with camel rides and a night in a desert camp.
9. The Cinema Museum
For film lovers: photos, posters and sets telling the story of the films shot in the region.
Ouarzazate combines history, culture, nature and cinema: ideal for discovering southern Morocco.
See our tours from Ouarzazate.
More about Ouarzazate on Wikipedia.
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