Ouarzazate may not be the first city you think of when planning a visit to Morocco. And yet, its potential to enchant travelers is there. Located in the Drâa-Tafilalet region in the south of the country, the town nicknamed the "gateway to the desert" because of its proximity to the Sahara, enchants visitors with the beauty of its traditional kasbahs, its alleys steeped in history and its handicrafts. Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, Ouarzazate is the starting point for many memorable excursions. And it's also a city with a special link to the 7th art. What to do and see in this southern gem of the Moroccan High Atlas Mountains? Let's find out with these 11 must-sees.
1. Visit kasbah de Taourirt, a Berber treasure trove
The Taourirt kasbah is a remarkably well-preserved ancient adobe construction. Dating from the 12th century, it is a masterpiece of the Glaoua family. Like an immense sand castle in the heart of the desert, travelers are invited to discover the magnificent decor of its interiors. The kasbah is also home to numerous narrow passages, towers and inner courtyards. A feast for the eyes, with a wealth of geometric details. The Taourirt Kasbah is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
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2. Getting to the kasbah Aït Ben Haddou, an exceptional fortified village
The Aït Ben Haddou kasbah is another jewel on UNESCO's World Heritage list. It is a classic example of Moroccan architecture, with remarkable terracotta buildings. Once there, take time to wander the winding streets and admire the traditional houses and watchtowers. The engravings and other artistic motifs are of rare beauty. Its hilltop location also affords stunning panoramic views of the mountains and desert. No wonder this nugget has been used as a backdrop for many films and TV series, including Lawrence of Arabia and Game of Thrones.
3. Stroll through Ouarzazate's medina
Ouarzazate 's medina may not be as impressive as Marrakech's or Fez's, but it's such a magical place. We love its intimate atmosphere, where you can take the time to chat with each shopkeeper and craftsman. The architectural beauty of the place rivals that of the products on offer, including porteries, jewelry, wool rugs and cotton blankets. The perfect place to stock up on authentic souvenirs.
4. Discover the history of the old Mellah synagogue
Built over 400 years ago, the former synagogue of Ouarzazate's Mellah, rather discreet on the outside, reveals a rich and vast space on the inside. Now transformed into a museum, visitors can discover the life of an Amazigh Jewish family through authentic objects. It's a fabulous testimony to the centuries-old coexistence between Jewish and Amazigh communities, offering an immersive journey into the region's history and culture.
5. What to do in Ouarzazate Visit the Musée du Cinéma
As we said in the introduction, Ouarzazate has a close connection with the world of cinema. Housed in a renovated former kasbah, the Musée du Cinéma showcases the city's cinematic heritage through exhibits such as film posters, costumes and props used in popular films, and photographs of film sets. There's also a wealth of information on actors and directors who have filmed in the area. The site also offers a wide-ranging educational program and workshops for all ages.
6. Discover Atlas Film Studios, another place for film buffs
Atlas Studios, just outside Ouarzazate, is one of the country's largest cinema complexes. Founded in 1983, they attract both local and international productions thanks to their varied backdrops and unique desert setting. Major films such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones have been shot here. Open to visitors, the studios offer an immersion in the world of cinema. A must for all lovers of the 7th art.
Discover Atlas Studios and the Fint oasis by booking this guided day trip to Ouarzazate!
7. Stroll around Place Al Mouahidine
Place Al Mouahidine is the perfect place in Ouarzazate to store and stop for a local pastry. It's also a popular place for locals and visitors alike to enjoy a breath of fresh air at the end of the day, listen to live music or buy a few souvenirs. The square is a vast esplanade that also offers great views of the city's ochre buildings.
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8. Taste Moroccan cuisine, a must in Ouarzazate
Moroccan cuisine is renowned the world over, and has many fans. A trip to Ourzazate is therefore an opportunity to awaken the taste buds. Here, you can dine on Moroccan gastronomic standards such as pastilla, couscous and tajine. But the southern Moroccan city also offers a number of local specialties, such as Tchicha, a wheat soup, or Harira, a semolina-based dish. A must-try dish is Chorba, a pigeon and walnut soup that dates back to the time of Pacha Thami El Glaoui!
9. Take a nature break at Lake El Mansour Eddahbi
25 kilometers south of the town of Ouarzazate, the reservoir of the Mansour Eddahbi dam forms Lake Ouarzazate. It's the perfect spot for a picnic, with magnificent views of the surrounding landscape. Several species of birds can also be seen here. Take your camera with you to capture these magical moments. Some people come here to fish, but beware: a fishing permit is required. If you prefer, you can rent a kayak and glide leisurely across the lake.
10. Stop off at the Fint oasis
TheFint oasis, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Morocco, lies just a few kilometers from Ouarzazate. This verdant spot in the middle of the Moroccan desert boasts an idyllic setting, with palm trees, a stream and towering walls of limestone and ochre rock. There are also traditional villages where donkeys roam the streets and laundry is still washed by hand. The best way to enjoy this exotic atmosphere is to stay for two days. This is the time to get to know the locals and follow their good advice to enjoy this lush paradise.
Discover theFint oasis and Atlas Studios by booking this guided day trip to Ouarzazate!
11. Explore the Dades Gorge
This is one of the most memorable explorations to be made from Ouarzazate. The Dades Gorge lies just over 140 km from the city. Created by the Dades River over a stretch of almost 200 kilometers, the site reveals four series of breathtakingly beautiful rock formations. An absolutely incredible geological universe, which also offers the chance to discover troglodytic dwellings and kasbahs.
Where to stay in Ouarzazate?
In Ouarzazate, several hotels stand out for their charm, hospitality and ideal location for exploring the "gateway to the desert". Whether you're looking for a central pied-à-terre, a leafy haven or local immersion, here are three options to consider.
- The most central: Hotel Marmar
Centrally located, theHotel Marmar offers excellent value for money. Rooms, bookable here, are quiet, with free Wi-Fi and private bathrooms. The staff are very attentive. It's the perfect place to stay on a tight budget, with well-kept spaces and a prime position for enjoying the riches of the city center.
- A place to unwind: Les jardins de Ouarzazate
Located on the road to Zagora, Les Jardins de Ouarzazate boasts a vast garden, swimming pool and spa. Perfect for recharging your batteries just a stone's throw from the city. The rooms are air-conditioned, and there's also a restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious meal on site. A peaceful setting and typical local decor. Click here to book your stay!
- For proximity to the medina: Hotel Azoul
The location is perfect for getting to the souks of the medina in just a few minutes. TheHotel Azoul, which you can book here, is authentically decorated and offers an immersion in the Moroccan world. With its traditional decor, air-conditioned rooms with minibar, satellite TV, terrace with breathtaking views and whirlpool bath, you'll feel right at home.
What to do in Ouarzazate with children?
On a trip to Ouarzazate with children, they'll be delighted to visit the Atlas Studios to go behind the scenes of famous films, with impressive sets to explore. The well-preserved kasbah of Taourirt offers a glimpse into local history, with its secret passages and fascinating towers. Families can also enjoy a camel ride or quad bike tour of the surrounding area.
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