OUARZAZATE: YOUR ULTIMATE ITINERARY
Welcome to Ouarzazate, Morocco’s gateway to the Sahara Desert and a cinematic treasure trove. Known as the "Hollywood of Africa", this captivating city enchants visitors with its rich history, striking kasbahs, and breathtaking desert landscapes. From exploring its UNESCO-listed heritage to venturing into the surrounding wilderness, Ouarzazate offers an unforgettable adventure. Let’s uncover why this hidden treasure is one of Morocco’s most stunning travel destinations!
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HIGHLIGHTS
Before diving into the details of our recommended itineraries, here's a brief overview and a summary to make planning easier for you:
Day 1: Uncovering Ouarzazate's Charms
Kasbah Taourirt, Cinema Museum, Atlas Film Studios, Ouarzazate Souk
Day 2: Heritage and Oasis Wonders
Ait Benhaddou, Fint Oasis
Ouarzazate Quad Tour, 2-Day Excursion to Zagora Desert, Ouarzazate to Marrakech - 3-Day Desert Tour with Camel Trek
Dades Valley, Todra Gorge, Merzouga, Zagora
GETTING AROUND OUARZAZATE
Ouarzazate is compact and easy to navigate. The main attractions, such as Kasbah Taourirt and the Cinema Museum, are within walking distance in the city center, making it simple to explore on foot. For destinations farther out, like the stunning Ait Benhaddou or the serene Fint Oasis, options include hiring a taxi, booking a guided tour, or renting a car if you prefer a solo expedition and the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
Day trips from Marrakech to Ouarzazate are incredibly popular, offering a chance to experience this cinematic city and its surrounding landmarks on a manageable schedule. If you're planning to visit from Marrakech, you’ll find many tours that include stops at Tizi n'Tichka Pass and Ait Benhaddou along the way. Some tours also combine a visit to Ouarzazate with an excursion to the Sahara Desert, offering an extended adventure that includes camel rides, desert camps, and breathtaking views of the dunes.
If you're flying directly into Ouarzazate Airport (OZZ), taxis and private transfers can get you to your accommodation within minutes, as the city center is just a 10-minute drive away.
1-DAY ITINERARY
Day 1: Uncovering Ouarzazate's Charms
Morning: Start your day with a visit to Kasbah Taourirt, a UNESCO-listed site that offers a glimpse into Morocco’s historic architecture and local culture. Wander through its labyrinth of rooms and admire its intricate decor.
Lunch: Head to La Kasbah des Sables, a must-visit for an authentic Moroccan dining experience. Its refined menu features dishes inspired by various regions of Morocco, all served in a stunning setting filled with traditional decor crafted by local artisans.
Afternoon: Dive into the cinematic history of Ouarzazate at the Cinema Museum, showcasing the city’s legacy as a backdrop for Hollywood blockbusters. Then, visit the Atlas Film Studios, where iconic movies like Gladiator were filmed.
Evening: Walk through the bustling Ouarzazate Souk, where you can shop for traditional crafts, spices, and souvenirs. End your day with a unique dinner at Le Relais de Saint-Exupéry, where the Bordeaux chef Jean-Pierre crafts a menu blending traditional Moroccan and French cuisine, with options like dromedary and shark for adventurous palates.
2-DAY ITINERARY
If you have 2 days in Ouarzazate, make the most of your visit by discovering the breathtaking natural beauty that lies just beyond the city:
Day 2: Heritage and Oasis Wonders
Morning: Drive to the iconic Ait Benhaddou, a stunning kasbah and UNESCO World Heritage Site about 30 minutes from Ouarzazate. Wander through its ancient alleyways and climb to the top for breathtaking views of the surrounding desert landscape. This picturesque site has been featured in numerous productions, including Game of Thrones, where it doubled as the city of Yunkai.
Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal at a local restaurant near Ait Benhaddou, like Restaurant Kasbah Valentine, known for its hospitality and flavorful dishes.
Afternoon: Visit the tranquil Fint Oasis, located 20 minutes from Ouarzazate. This lush oasis offers a serene escape, with palm trees, mudbrick villages, and a glimpse into traditional Berber life.
Evening: Return to Ouarzazate for dinner at Jardin des Arômes, an elegant restaurant providing a serene garden setting and a fusion of Moroccan and international dishes, perfect for winding down after a day of exploration.
WHERE TO STAY
Ouarzazate offers accommodations that combine traditional Moroccan charm with modern comfort. Here are some of our top picks to ensure your stay is unforgettable:
Le Berbère Palace: A luxurious hotel offering spacious rooms, a stunning pool, and impeccable service. Its elegant ambiance and excellent amenities make it a perfect choice for travelers seeking sophistication and comfort.
Riad Ouarzazate: A charming riad that provides an authentic Moroccan experience with beautifully decorated rooms, warm hospitality, and a cozy atmosphere, ensuring a memorable stay in Ouarzazate.
Oscar Hotel by Atlas Studios: Perfect for movie enthusiasts, this hotel is located within the famous Atlas Film Studios. It offers comfortable rooms and a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the cinematic history of Ouarzazate.
Ecolodge L'île de Ouarzazate: An eco-friendly retreat set on the banks of a serene lake, this lodge features traditional Moroccan architecture, peaceful surroundings, and sustainable practices, ideal for nature lovers looking for a tranquil escape.
EXTRA ACTIVITIES TO EXPLORE
If you find yourself with extra time in Ouarzazate, consider adding these activities to your trip:
Ouarzazate Quad Tour: Escape the hustle and bustle of Ouarzazate to breathe in fresh air and experience the adventure and freedom of riding a quad bike, all in complete safety. Book here →
2-Day Excursion to Zagora Desert: Discover the gateway to the Zagora Desert from Ouarzazate. Ride a camel, enjoy a local dinner and spend the night in a Berber style tent. Book here →
Ouarzazate to Marrakech - 3-Day Desert Tour with Camel Trek: Experience the magic of Morocco on a 3-day desert tour that starts in Ouarzazate and ends in Marrakech. Immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes, embark on a camel trek, and relax under the stars with a night of unforgettable desert camping. Book here →
BEYOND OUARZAZATE
While Ouarzazate has much to offer, there are also several incredible nearby destinations worth exploring:
Dades Valley: Wander through dramatic gorges and verdant landscapes, where every twist of the trail reveals another breathtaking view - perfect for hikers and explorers. Book here →
Todra Gorge: Known as one of Morocco’s most stunning natural wonders, Todra Gorge is a towering canyon carved by the Todra River. Its sheer cliffs, which rise up to 400 meters (1,312 feet), create a dramatic backdrop for climbers seeking a challenge or travelers simply looking to enjoy its raw beauty.
Merzouga: For the quintessential Sahara Desert experience, Merzouga is unmatched. Famous for the towering Erg Chebbi dunes, this is where you can witness the grandeur of the desert at its finest. Check out our Sahara Desert travel guide →
Zagora: Often referred to as the "Gate to the Sahara", Zagora embodies the serenity of desert life. Walk through its verdant palm groves, visit the historic kasbahs, or embark on a camel trek into the vast dunes to watch the sun dip below the horizon.