Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate

Ouarzazate

Fly to the film-making desert city of Ouarzazate!

5 good reasons to go to Ouarzazate

In the middle of the Sahara
In the middle of the Sahara
If you want to explore the desert, then Ouarzazate is a good place to start. But how would you like to travel? On a quad bike, a camel or in a 4x4? Your unusual mode of transport will certainly make your holiday one to remember! As you travel across the Sahara, notice how the magnificent landscapes change with the light throughout the day.
The Atlas Studios
The Atlas Studios
The Atlas Studios are Morocco’s version of Hollywood, but it’s surprising to see such an impressive site so far away from the major cities. Lots of films have been made in these studios: Gladiator, Astérix & Obélix, The Mummy, and more. Visitors are allowed to see the film sets when they’re not being used. It’s really good fun!
A night in the desert
A night in the desert
Fancy an adventure? A night in the desert, sleeping under the stars, should be just the ticket! Spend an unforgettable night in the desert, sleeping in a tent or traditional cloth shelter. Watch the sand dunes glow in the last rays of sunshine, then go stargazing beneath the desert skies. Of course, you need to hire a guide!
Morocco’s valleys and gorges
Morocco’s valleys and gorges
The Ouarzazate region of Morocco is scattered with lots of valleys and gorges sculpted by rivers. Wander through the Drâa Valley and the Dadès Gorges. Drâa is more lush and green, while Dadès is dry and arid. And you have to see the 300-metre-high cliffs at the Todra Gorges.
The Road of 1,000 Kasbahs
The Road of 1,000 Kasbahs
The Road of 1,000 Kasbahs stretches from Ouarzazate to Goulmima. But before you take to the road, pay a visit to the Ksar of Aït-Ben-Haddou and the Kasbah of Tifoultoute. They are two of the most beautiful kasbahs in Morocco. En route, you must stop off at Kasbah Amridil. You’ll also see unexpected little villages and stunning landscapes.

To see / do

Culture and history

The city of Ouarzazate

The city of Ouarzazate

Ouarzazate is a North African city that’s full of surprises. There’s the craft market, film studios and the famous Taourirt Kasbah,  which should definitely be at the top of your list. This stunning Kasbah was built by the Berbers in the 17th century. Go inside to see what’s hidden behind its terracotta walls.

El Mansour Eddahbi Dam

Just south of Ouarzazate, the El Mansour Eddahbi Dam holds back 560 million cubic metres of water from the Drâa River. This spectacular-looking dam has to be seen to be believed. And nature-lovers will adore the artificial lake, which is home to a rich diversity of wildlife. Lots of fish, foxes, otters, migratory birds and other animals can be found there.

Tazouda dinosaurs

Tazouda dinosaurs

Archaeologists have made some incredible discoveries in Tazouda, not too far from Toundoute. They have uncovered the tracks and bones of dinosaurs dating back 180-185 million years! They are said to be the oldest dinosaur remains ever to be found. You can visit the archaeological site itself, where a museum will soon be opened.

Outings

Wander around the craft market

If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Morocco, then head to the city’s craft market where you can see spices, leather goods, earthenware pots and lots of other handmade objects. There’s no denying the skill of the local craftsmen. They are particularly accomplished in the regional art of rug-making, which is recognised the world over.

A secret oasis

Have you heard of the Fint Oasis? No? Well, there’s probably a good reason for that. Fint means “hidden” in the Berber language. So take a trip to a place that’s rather secret, or at least, that isn't particularly well-signposted! A lush, green oasis awaits you. You can see lots of exciting things here: film shoots, donkey rides, bivouac shelters and more.

Gastronomy

Traditional Moroccan tajine

Your five senses are in for a treat in Morocco. Tickle your taste buds with a fantastically fragrant tajine. The tajine is the name of the earthenware pot, as well as the meat and vegetable dish itself. Spices make this traditional meal particularly tasty. Depending on the time of year, you get different types of tajine, some using courgettes or quince, for example.

Ouarzazate pizza

Ouarzazate pizza

Did you buy a plane ticket to Ouarzazate? Then, you’ll be surprised to know that pizza is popular there! However, on North African soil, pizza is called aghroum bout'gouri and is essentially a stuffed flatbread that looks like a squashed calzone. The bread is filled with a mixture of meat, peppers, garlic, coriander, chilli and other ingredients.

Practical information

Flight duration

2h30

Time difference

0h

Currency

Dirham

Distance

1643 km

Average temperature

Spring

25°C (max 36°C)

Summer

30°C (max 39°C)

Autumn

16°C (max 28°C)

Winter

12°C (max 22°C)

Discover in the same country

You might also like

* All the information on this page is provided for information purposes only. Changes to the programme, flight offers and schedules may be made at any time and without notice. Check with airlines or travel agencies for more information.