Things to Do in Ouarzazate: Film Studios, Kasbahs and the Gateway to the Sahara
Ouarzazate is a desert town south of the High Atlas, about 4 hours from Marrakech, known as the gateway to the Sahara and the "Hollywood of Africa". The top things to do are visiting the Atlas or CLA film studios, the Taourirt Kasbah, the nearby ksar of Ait Benhaddou, the Fint oasis and the palm grove and kasbahs of Skoura.
1. Atlas Film Studios
One of the largest film studios in the world by area, Atlas Studios has hosted productions such as Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven and scenes from Game of Thrones. Guided visits walk you through sets of Egyptian temples, Roman forums and Tibetan monasteries.
2. CLA Studios
Smaller and slightly further from town, CLA Studios has sets used in many biblical and historical films and series. It is often quieter than Atlas Studios.
3. Taourirt Kasbah
A former residence of the powerful Glaoui family, this labyrinth of rooms, courtyards and towers in the centre of town is one of the best-preserved kasbahs open to visitors. Some rooms keep their painted ceilings and stucco.
4. Ait Benhaddou
About 30 km away, the fortified village of Ait Benhaddou is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Morocco's most iconic views. Read our Ait Benhaddou guide.
5. The Museum of Cinema
Opposite the Taourirt Kasbah, this small museum displays cameras, props and sets from films shot in the region.
6. The Fint oasis
A green palm oasis hidden in a rocky landscape about 15 km from town, with a small village and a river where you can walk among palm trees and fields.
7. Skoura palm grove
East of Ouarzazate, Skoura's oasis is dotted with kasbahs, including Kasbah Amridil, and makes a peaceful stop on the road to the Dades Valley.
8. Mansour Eddahbi lake
A reservoir east of the city, surrounded by desert landscapes; a good spot for birdwatching and sunsets.
9. Draa Valley drive
South of Ouarzazate, the road over the Tizi n'Tinififft pass leads into the Draa Valley, a long ribbon of palm groves towards Zagora and the desert.
10. Stargazing
Clear skies and dry air make the Ouarzazate region good for watching stars, especially outside town.
How to visit Ouarzazate from Marrakech
The Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate day trip from Marrakech crosses the Tizi n'Tichka pass and visits both in one long day. Ouarzazate is also a stop on our 2-day Zagora desert trip and the 3-day Sahara tour to Merzouga. For a slower journey, see the Marrakech to Merzouga route and our Ouarzazate travel guide.
Before visiting the studios, check opening times on site; for background on the region's film history, see the Wikipedia article on Ouarzazate.
Book it with a local operator
- From Marrakech: Ait Benhaddou & Ouarzazate Day Trip over the High Atlas — from €39 per person, pay on the day.
- From Marrakech: 2-Day Zagora Desert Trip with Camel Ride & Camp — from €79 per person, pay on the day.
- From Marrakech: 3-Day Sahara Desert Tour to Merzouga with Camel Trek — from €145 per person, pay on the day.
Related guides
- Draa Valley and Zagora: Palm Groves, Kasbahs and the Road to the Desert
- Kasbah Telouet: The Glaoui Palace Hidden in the High Atlas
- Todra Gorge Guide: How to Visit Morocco's Most Dramatic Canyon
Frequently asked questions
Is Ouarzazate worth visiting?
Yes, especially combined with Ait Benhaddou. Its kasbahs, film studios and position at the gateway to the desert make it a rewarding stop on the way south.
Can you do a day trip to Ouarzazate from Marrakech?
Yes. It is a long day (about 4 hours each way), but a guided day trip covers the Tizi n'Tichka pass, Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate.
Which films were shot in Ouarzazate?
Many, including Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, The Mummy and scenes for Game of Thrones, at the Atlas and CLA studios and nearby Ait Benhaddou.
How many days do you need in Ouarzazate?
Half a day to a day is enough for the studios and Taourirt Kasbah; add a night if you want to explore Ait Benhaddou, Fint and Skoura calmly.
Main photo: Petar Milošević, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.
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