Ouarzazate

Where is Ouarzazate?

Ouarzazate, known as the “Door of the Desert,” lies in south-central Morocco within the Drâa-Tafilalet region. It’s situated on the Saharan side of the High Atlas Mountains, nestled in the valley of the Ouarzazate River near its confluence with the Drâa River. The city serves as a gateway to southern oases, the Draa Valley, and the Sahara Desert, making it a strategic hub for both history and travel.

Top 5 Attractions in Ouarzazate

1. Kasbah Taourirt & Aït Benhaddou

Step back in time at Kasbah Taourirt, a 19th-century earthen fortress built by the powerful Glaoui family. Its ornate towers and intricate interiors showcase the wealth and influence of the era. Just outside the city, don’t miss Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed ksar known for its striking clay architecture and its role in films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones.

2. Atlas Film Studios

Explore the world’s largest film studio, Atlas Film Studios, where countless Hollywood and international movies have been shot. Guided tours take you behind the scenes of elaborate desert sets that still stand today.

3. Sahara Desert Excursions

Ouarzazate is the perfect base for venturing into the Sahara. From here, you can set out on camel treks, quad biking adventures, or scenic drives through the Skoura palm groves and surrounding valleys before heading deeper into the desert.

4. Fint Oasis

Just a short drive from the city, the Fint Oasis is a hidden gem nestled between rocky desert mountains. Lush palm groves, mud-brick houses, and peaceful Berber villages create a serene escape from the arid landscapes nearby.

5. Ouarzazate Souks and Artisan Quarters

Stroll through Ouarzazate’s bustling souks and artisan districts to browse pottery, textiles, jewelry, and traditional Berber crafts. It’s the perfect way to experience local culture and pick up unique souvenirs.

What to Eat in Ouarzazate

• Traditional Dishes: Ouarzazate is full of classic Moroccan flavors. Popular staples include pastilla, vegetable tagine, mechoui (slow-roasted lamb), and hearty harira soup. The region also has its own specialties, such as Tchicha (a comforting wheat soup), pigeon-and-walnut chorba, Aghroum Toudount (stuffed bread with onions and spices), and sweet Idernane pancakes.
• Street Food Delights: For a quick bite, try medfouna, a Berber-style stuffed flatbread often called the “Berber pizza.” In the evenings, you’ll also find stalls serving warm bowls of harira near the main square—perfect after a day of exploring.

Tips for Your Ouarzazate Travel

• Summers can soar above 36 °C, while winter lows may dip close to freezing. Pack light clothes for the day and warmer layers for the evening.
• Due to high mineral content, local tap water may upset sensitive stomachs. Bottled water is the safer option, and it’s best to avoid raw vegetables or fruit you can’t peel.
• If you’d like to experience a luxury hotel where many actors have stayed, consider booking a stay at Hotel Le Temple Des Arts.