Introduction to Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Door of the Desert,” serves as a gateway to Morocco magnificent desert landscapes and intriguing day trips. This charming town, nestled amidst the dusty desert and framed by the majestic Atlas Mountains, is surrounded by historic Kasbahs and palm tree-lined oases. Though modest in size compared to Morocco major cities like Tangier and Marrakech, Ouarzazate is the largest town in the Moroccan Sahara, offering visitors a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Exploring Ouarzazate
Film Studios
Ouarzazate, aptly dubbed the Hollywood of Morocco, is a prime location for many iconic films and television series. The Atlas Corporation Studios, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts large clay brick walls and grand structures that create a labyrinth of passageways, rooms, courtyards, and impressive entrances, perfect for epic film shots. Renowned movies such as Gladiator and Game of Thrones were filmed here, making the studios a must-visit for cinema enthusiasts. Guided tours offer an in-depth look at the film-making process and allow visitors to explore these famous sets.
Souks
The vibrant souks of Ouarzazate provide a fantastic shopping experience with less of the hustle and bustle found in larger Moroccan cities. Here, you can find exquisite hand-woven carpets created by local Berber women at the CoOperative Des Tapis. For something more compact, Labyrinthe Du Sud offers beautiful Moroccan jewelry. Tour companies often include stops at local stands and shops, giving you the opportunity to purchase unique handmade items and support the local community.
Kasbah Taourirt
The stunning Kasbah Taourirt, located in the Draa Valley, resembles a massive sandcastle rising from the desert. Originally built in the 17th century and expanded in the 19th century by the Glaoui family, this kasbah was their home until the end of French colonial rule. Though it fell into disrepair, it was restored in 1990 and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore its over 300 rooms, hidden stairways, and scenic courtyards.
Trip to Zagora
A day trip to Zagora, a village within the Draa Valley, is a popular activity. This journey often includes a camel trek, allowing you to experience the desert as nomads once did. Along the way, you can visit ancient Kasbahs, savor fresh dates, and enjoy breathtaking desert sunsets.
Fint Oasis
Just 10 kilometers south of Ouarzazate lies the Fint Oasis, a literal garden in the midst of the desert. Home to four traditional villages, this oasis offers visitors a serene escape and the chance to partake in nightly entertainment shows or join a local family for a round of mint tea.
Ksar Ait Ben Haddou
The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a fortified village strategically placed along the trans-Sahara trade routes and the Ounila Valley. This site, with its high walls and passageways made from rammed earth, adobe, clay bricks, and wood, is a testament to ancient Moroccan architecture and a popular tourist destination.
Visit Skoura
Skoura, a small town in the Ouarzazate province, offers a blend of modern and historical architecture. Historic buildings built from rammed brick line the main streets, offering a glimpse into the past while providing modern amenities. The surrounding oasis, with its lush palm trees and fertile soil, produces fresh fruits and vegetables available for purchase.
Desert Tours
Ouarzazate is an ideal starting point for desert excursions. Many tour companies pass through or begin their journeys here, making it a convenient place to prepare for or unwind from your desert adventure. The town greenery and palm trees provide a refreshing contrast to the stark desert landscape.
Accommodation in Ouarzazate
As Ouarzazate gains popularity, a variety of accommodation options are becoming available. Mid-priced hostels, hotels, and bed and breakfasts, such as Dar Chamaa and Hotel Nadia, offer comfortable stays. Riads, traditional Moroccan homes converted into guesthouses, provide an authentic experience with their tranquil courtyards and traditional decor. Le Petit Riad and Riad Ouarzazate are excellent choices for those seeking to immerse themselves in Moroccan culture.
Culinary Delights
Ouarzazate culinary scene features a mix of traditional Moroccan and French cuisines. Along the main street near the souks, you’ll find numerous cost-friendly options for quick and delicious meals. For a more refined dining experience, La Kasbah D’Sable offers a delightful blend of French and Moroccan dishes.
Transportation
Navigating Ouarzazate is relatively easy. Within the city, walking is a pleasant option, though petit taxis (red) are available for longer distances or in extreme heat. Grand taxis (beige) can take you to nearby cities and Kasbahs. If you plan to explore outside Ouarzazate frequently, consider renting a car from the nearby airport.
Optimal Visiting Times
The best times to visit Ouarzazate are during the spring and fall months (April, May, September, and October) when the weather is mild. Summer months (June, July, and August) can be extremely hot, while December, the coldest month, offers a unique experience with the snow-capped Atlas Mountains framing the desert.
Cinematic Legacy
Ouarzazate cinematic legacy includes numerous notable films and television series:
- Gladiator (2000)
- Game of Thrones (2011-2019)
- Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
- The Mummy (1999)
- Babel (2006)
- Kingdom of Heaven (2005)
- The Last Temptation of Christ (1988)
- Alexander (2004)
- The Living Daylights (1987)
- The Jewel of the Nile (1985)
Explore Ouarzazate, a town where history, culture, and natural beauty converge, offering an unforgettable Moroccan adventure.
1 Comment
I love morocco