Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate: Your Portal to Moroccan Desert Safaris
In the shadow of the striking Atlas Mountains, between vast deserts of the Sahara and one of Morocco’s greatest travel hubs sits one of the nation’s greatest wonders. This city of Ouarzazate-the "gateway to the desert" has been the launching point for some of the nation's greatest adventures. Its ancient heritage, rugged desert surroundings, magnificent kasbahs and its internationally recognized film studios guarantee travelers an experience full of rich history, wild adventure and genuine Moroccan spirit.
Lying in the south of Morocco, Ouarzazate is has historically been a vital trading junction connecting the Sahara with the imperial cities of the north and now attracts explorers of the world over ready to experience its stark beauty and witness the captivating mystery of Moroccan desert journeys. Surrounded by harsh mountain ranges, verdant palm trees, traditional Berber villages, and splendid gorges, Ouarzazate is framed by what most consider to be the most beautiful landscape in North Africa.
Visit Ouarzazate's Ancient Kasbahs
A significant attraction of Ouarzazate and the main reason travelers choose to journey here is the collection of historic Kasbahs. Among them, Ait Ben Haddou is the most famous. In 1987 Ait Ben Haddou was awarded World Heritage status by UNESCO, for its incredible mud-brick architecture and for the history which it preserves. Several well-known movies and series have been filmed there. Wandering through the historic settlements enables visitors to truly experience authentic Moroccan architecture and take a journey back in time. For anybody visiting Morocco, a tour of Ouarzazate's kasbahs should not be missed.
Experience the Magic of the Sahara
It is also from Ouarzazate that many visitors can commence an exciting adventure into the Sahara. You can go on an adventurous camel journey, stay in one of the lavish desert camps and watch an amazing sunset over the sand dunes. The trip from Ouarzazate to the Sahara offers stunning sights; views over oases, remote berber villages, and amazing landscapes can all be encountered along the way. You can take a day tour or book an overnight Sahara expedition - either way it will be a truly memorable experience and one of the highlights of any Morocco tour.
Explore Morocco's Famous Film Studios
Ouarzazate has received the nickname 'Hollywood of Morocco' for the city itself is home to Atlas Studios, one of the biggest film studios in the world and a location used to film many famous blockbusters and TV series. Movie fans have the opportunity to walk around these studios and see the movie sets from movies such as Gladiator, the Mummy, and Game of Thrones and learn about the background stories of many international movies.
Sample authentic Moroccan Culture and Experience Beautiful Landscapes
It is the authentic Moroccan culture and stunning landscapes of Ouarzazate and its surrounding areas that give visitors a true and unique holiday experience. Enjoy a trip through its busy markets, local restaurants and Berber villages, you will feel fully immersed in the culture of this Moroccan region. The nearby valleys, palm groves, and stunning scenery are a photographers dream; the region has so much to offer to any nature lover and adventurer.