Ouarzazate
Where the landscape changes colour.
Cross the High Atlas and everything changes. Ouarzazate opens the door to Morocco's desert landscapes, kasbahs and timeless oases.
The Core
Ouarzazate: Nestled at the crossroads of the Draa, Dades, and Ziz valleys, Ouarzazate is often called the “Door of the Desert.” This enchanting city is surrounded by dramatic landscapes of rugged mountains, sweeping deserts, and ancient kasbahs. Ouarzazate has gained fame as a cinematic hub, with its Atlas Film Studios hosting numerous international productions.
The city’s highlight is the Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning mudbrick architecture. A walk through its ancient alleys feels like stepping back in time. Nearby, the Fint Oasis provides a serene escape, with palm groves and traditional Berber villages offering a glimpse into local life.
Adventure seekers can embark on treks through the Sahara Desert, explore the scenic Dades Gorge, or marvel at the beauty of the Todra Gorge.
Best time to visit: Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) when temperatures are pleasant for exploring the desert and nearby valleys. Ouarzazate is a destination of unparalleled beauty, history, and culture.unparalleled beauty, history, and culture.
Best Time to visit
Best Time to Visit Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate is a year-round destination, but crossing the Tizi n'Tichka Pass feels like stepping into another Morocco. Beyond the High Atlas, the lush valleys gradually give way to vast plateaus, kasbahs and desert landscapes, where the climate follows the rhythm of the Sahara rather than that of Marrakech. For most travellers, March to May and late September through November offer the ideal conditions, with warm sunny days, cool evenings and perfect weather for exploring the surrounding oases, kasbahs and film studios.
Spring paints the valleys with fresh greenery and blossoms, while autumn brings crystal-clear skies and golden light that photographers dream of. These seasons are ideal for discovering Aït Ben Haddou, the Draa Valley and the hidden palm groves that surround the region. They also provide the most comfortable temperatures for continuing towards the Sahara.
Summer reveals Ouarzazate at its most authentic, but also at its hottest. Temperatures regularly climb above 40°C, and life naturally shifts to the cooler hours of the morning and evening. Winter is surprisingly pleasant during the day, although nights can become remarkably cold under the clear desert sky. Whether you stay for a night or use Ouarzazate as your base to explore southern Morocco, it remains a place to disconnect from the pace of everyday life, where wide-open landscapes, endless horizons and silence become part of the journey itself.
Things to do
01
Aït Benhaddou: This iconic kasbah is a testament to Morocco’s architectural heritage. Its striking clay structures, set against a backdrop of desert and mountains, have made it a favorite location for filmmakers and travelers alike.
02
Atlas Film Studios: Discover the heart of Morocco’s “Hollywood.” Atlas Film Studios is where many legendary movies were shot, from "Lawrence of Arabia" to "Gladiator." Guided tours offer a behind-the-scenes glimpse into cinematic history.
03
Kasbah Taourirt: Located in the heart of Ouarzazate, this 19th-century fortress offers a blend of Berber and Islamic architectural styles. Wander through its labyrinthine corridors and learn about its historical significance.
04
Fint Oasis: A hidden gem just outside Ouarzazate, this lush oasis surrounded by desert landscapes is home to tranquil villages and a verdant contrast to the arid surroundings.
05
06
Todra Gorge: A spectacular canyon with sheer cliffs, ideal for hiking, rock climbing, or simply taking in the natural beauty of its dramatic landscapes.
Dades Valley: Known as the Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs, this picturesque area features winding roads, unique rock formations, and quaint villages tucked into the rugged terrain.
Where to stay in the area
Berbère Palace
327 €
