7 Things To Do in Ouarzazate
I’ll be honest with you: what made me want to visit Ouarzazate years ago was its name! Admit it, it’s pretty intriguing!
Since then, the idea of discovering this off-the-beaten-path destination never really left me, so when I planned my itinerary from Marrakech to the Moroccan desert, of course I included a stop in Ouarzazate.
And honestly, I don’t regret for a second having unpacked my backpack for a few days in this city often overlooked by tourists. In fact, it offers some beautiful treasures and, above all, lets you experience something authentic—a true dive into the daily life of the locals.
Wondering what the best things to do in Ouarzazate? Keep reading!
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Plan Your Stay in Ouarzazate in Just a Few Seconds!
In a rush to plan your trip? This mini-guide has all the essentials you need!
WHERE TO SLEEP?
- Appartement City Center (perfect for solo travelers)
- Berbère Palace (for a luxury stay)
WHERE TO EAT?
- Restaurant Bahja (for local and authentic dishes)
- Snack Amine (for quality fast food)
THINGS TO DO:
- Explore the Atlas Film Studios
- Visit the Kasbah
- Take a trip to Aït Ben Haddou
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Useful information for visiting Ouarzazate:
Ouarzazate in a nutshell
Ouarzazate is the gateway to the desert, a must-pass point to the arid expanses that attract so many tourists seeking exoticism.
Located at the confluence of the Drâa and Dadès rivers, the region offers magical landscapes, between palm groves, orchards, and gardens.
Perched at 1160 meters on the high plateaus of the Atlas Mountains, it was a key point on the caravan route.
Here, civilizations and peoples crossed paths, granting the city great prosperity, with strong trade and flourishing craftsmanship.
NEXT TO READ: 3 Days in Marrakech
7 Best Things To Do in Ouarzazate
Unlike other popular tourist destinations, the city has much less to offer. That’s true!
However, its main attractions are absolutely worth seeing. Not to mention, it’s a perfect city for a slow travel break among the locals.
Want to discover Ouarzazate with a guide? This private guided tour lets you explore the city and its must-see spots in one day. Book now!
1. Explore the Atlas Film Studio
If you’re like me and a fan of movies and TV series, this is a must-stop!
“Prince of Persia,” “Gladiator,” and “The Mummy” are just a few examples of productions filmed in this huge studio located a few kilometers from the city center.
Founded in 1983, it is one of the largest film studios in the world by area.
Note that the only way to explore the site is by guided tour. The tour lasts about 45 minutes, during which your guide will share the best anecdotes and invite you onto the different sets.
Honestly, it’s a visit you shouldn’t miss whether you’re alone, as a couple, or with family. I’m sure your kids will love stepping into these grand movie sets!
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday, from 8:30 AM until sunset
Prices:
- 80 dirhams (8 euros) per person
- Free entry for children under 5 years old
No time to stay in Ouarzazate? This guided tour from Marrakech lets you discover the Atlas Film Studios and Aït Ben Haddou in one day. Book your excursion now!
2. Visít the Cinema Museum
The museum was closed for renovations when I visited the city, so I couldn’t explore it. However, it remains a must-see if you love cinema.
Indeed, it pays tribute to the region’s film history by displaying sets, costumes, props, and equipment used in iconic movies shot in the city. You’ll find reconstructed film sets, vintage cameras, and much more.
Opening hours:
- Monday to Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission:
- 30 dirhams (3 euros) per person
3. Be amazed by the Taourirt Kasbah
This kasbah is a true gem! It is one of the best-preserved rammed earth fortresses in the country.
Built in the 17th century by the Imzwarn family, it was greatly expanded during the 19th century under the Glaoui dynasty. Spread over three floors, its crenellated towers and spacious patios concealed nearly 300 rooms!
Right from the entrance—or even before—many guides will offer their services to take you on a tour of this ancient fortress.
Since I like exploring sites on my own to marvel at them at my own pace, I didn’t use their services.
This allowed me to be dazzled by this ochre-colored historic labyrinth, discover the most hidden corners, and climb the steep stairs to admire the surrounding view. In short, a magnificent visit where time seemed to slow down!
Opening hours:
- Monday to Sunday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Admission:
- 20 dirhams (2 euros) per person
4. Stroll through the Mellah district
The Mellah district is the old Jewish quarter—a true labyrinth of winding streets lined with stunning buildings.
Some of these buildings are supported by props due to damage from the recent earthquake. However, this doesn’t take away from their charm.
I explored the area with a local who owns an antique shop and kindly closed his store to give me a tour. And what better way to discover a city than with a resident! He showed me some hidden spots and shared anecdotes about the neighborhood.
5. Spend the evening at Place Al-Mouahidine
The downtown area of Ouarzazate is a series of fairly modern buildings. There’s not much to see for tourists, and the large Place Al-Mouahidine can feel a bit cold during the day. However, as soon as the sun sets, it comes alive.
I recommend stopping by after dinner to enjoy its family-friendly atmosphere. It’s kind of the gathering spot for locals who want to enjoy the pleasant evenings.
6. Shop for souvenirs at the central market
Just near Place Al-Mouahidine is the central market, which stays open even late into the evening. Here, you can buy everything from spices to fruits and vegetables.
Next to it is the craft market, the perfect place to find souvenirs to take home: pottery, babouches (traditional slippers), jewelry… You’ll have plenty of choices!
7. Visit Aït Ben Haddou
Aït Ben Haddou is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful sites you’ll have the chance to discover in Morocco.
Located about 30 km from Ouarzazate, this fortified village made of rammed earth has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987 and is a remarkable example of traditional pre-Saharan architecture.
Overlooking the Ounila Valley, the ksar is made up of tightly packed houses protected by crenellated walls and corner towers.
In short, it’s a true postcard setting and a must-see excursion!
How many days to stay in Ouarzazate?
If you’re really short on time, one day is enough to see the essentials of Ouarzazate. For example, you can visit the Atlas Film Studios in the morning and explore the Kasbah in the afternoon before heading to your next destination.
Otherwise, I recommend staying two days in Ouarzazate to visit all the main attractions while giving yourself time to rest between visits.
If, like me, you enjoy meeting locals, getting lost in backstreets, and trying out different restaurants, then I suggest spending between 3 and 5 days here.
When to go to Ouarzazate?
The best time to visit Ouarzazate is from October to November, and then from March to April, when temperatures are mild and pleasant.
From December to February, the weather is still nice, but it can be chilly in the mornings and evenings. As for the months of May to September, they tend to be very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F).
How to get to Ouarzazate?
From Marrakech, you can easily get to Ouarzazate by taking a bus from the CTM company, for instance. The journey takes about 5 to 6 hours. That’s what I did. The bus was comfortable, the schedule was on time, luggage was properly tagged, and the views through the window were absolutely breathtaking!
You can also get there by car if you’re on a road trip. Simply take National Road N9, which crosses the Tizi n’Tichka pass in the High Atlas mountains. The drive takes around 4 to 5 hours.
The city also has an international airport with direct flights from Casablanca, as well as a few seasonal connections from Europe. Once you land, you can easily reach the city by rental car.
Where to stay in Ouarzazate?
I recommend staying near Place Al-Mouahidine for easy access to restaurants and shops. You’ll also be within walking distance of the Kasbah and very close to the CTM bus station.
- Appartement City Center ($): The most budget-friendly option in Ouarzazate. A clean bed in a dormitory!
- Hotel Riad Amlal ($$): A beautiful hotel with gorgeous decor right in the center. A perfect option for couples!
- Berbère Palace ($$$): The ideal choice if you’re looking for a luxury stay. It features an outdoor pool, hammam, sauna, and jacuzzi.
If you’re looking for something more off the beaten path, the quiet Mellah district is a great choice. You won’t be too far from the city center and will get to experience a unique and peaceful area.
I also stayed in a more remote residential neighborhood and truly enjoyed immersing myself in local life. However, that accommodation is no longer available, so unfortunately I can’t share the details with you.
READ NEXT: The Best Hotels in Marrakech
Is Ouarzazate worth it?
I’m sure most people will tell you that Ouarzazate isn’t really worth a visit — and it’s true that, unlike cities like Marrakech or Fes, the tourist offer is rather limited.
It’s also true that you could just stop for a few hours to get a quick feel for the place.
However, if you’re like me and love discovering the many different sides a country has to offer — and enjoy diving deeper into the daily lives of locals — Ouarzazate is a must.
Take the opportunity to slow down, meet the people, observe daily life unfolding at its own pace, do your shopping among the locals, and simply enjoy a different way of experiencing Morocco.
READ NEXT: The Best Day Trips From Marrakech
Responsible travel in Ouarzazate?
Traveling responsibly in Ouarzazate isn’t just an option — it’s a duty for any conscious traveler.
First and foremost, I encourage you to support the local community by choosing accommodations, restaurants, and guides that are run by people from the region.
Instead of buying magnets or other mass-produced souvenirs, why not take home a beautiful piece of local craftsmanship and help preserve traditional skills?
One more important point: make sure to keep the city clean by leaving no trash behind, using the bins provided, and — if you can — picking up anything others may have left behind.
I hope that after reading this article, you’re no longer wondering what to do in Ouarzazate! With these 7 must-sees, you’ve got everything you need to enjoy the city at your own pace over 2 to 3 days.
This lesser-known destination is perfect for a more authentic and slow travel experience. No doubt about it — I’ll definitely be coming back!
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