If you've experienced the chaotic energy of Marrakesh with its honking scooters and bustling medinas, prepare for a completely different Moroccan adventure just across the High Atlas mountains. Welcome to Ouarzazate (pronounced War-za-zat), a city whose Amazigh name meaning 'without noise' perfectly captures its tranquil desert atmosphere.
Welcome to Ouarzawood: Morocco's Film Capital
Ouarzazate has earned the nickname 'Ouarzawood' for good reason. This desert city serves as Morocco's answer to Hollywood, with its two major film studios and dramatic landscapes featuring in countless blockbuster productions. From Gladiator and Game of Thrones to Prince of Persia and Christopher Nolan's upcoming Odyssey remake, the area's cinematic pedigree spans generations.
As you approach the city centre, it's common to spot film crews capturing the magical pink light of dusk. Local guide Abdul explains that film work has become a family tradition here. "From the first film shot here in 1937, The Men Without Name, to today's major productions, it's not unusual to meet locals working as extras on sets built by their parents," he shares.
The film industry has even created local celebrities like Abdelaziz Bouyadnaine, whose resemblance to Osama Bin Laden has landed him roles in over 100 films.
Essential Sights and Desert Adventures
No visit to Ouarzazate is complete without exploring its cinematic attractions. Atlas Studios, located on the city outskirts, offers fascinating behind-the-scenes access to film sets from Kundun, Kingdom of Heaven and Cleopatra for just £6.50. While some sets show their age, the experience provides rare insight into the film industry.
For movie enthusiasts, the nearby Cinema Museum (£3.50 entry) features an interactive collection of memorabilia, props and equipment that brings film history to life.
The true crown jewel, however, is the Ksar of Aït-Ben-Haddou. This UNESCO-protected fortified village dating back to the 17th century features otherworldly architecture made from adobe and clay that has attracted numerous film productions. Visiting is free, though hiring a guide enhances the experience dramatically. For spectacular views, climb to the top or enjoy lunch at one of the nearby restaurants with panoramic rooftops.
Ouarzazate's strategic location at the crossroads of ancient trade routes makes it the perfect base for exploring the region. The city forms a key stop along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, a scenic route through valleys, Berber villages and centuries-old forts.
Within the city centre, don't miss Taourirt Kasbah (£2 entry), a former palace damaged in the 2023 earthquake but undergoing extensive restoration. This maze of traditional Moroccan architecture offers fascinating glimpses into the region's history.
Natural Wonders and Desert Gateways
Venture beyond the city for some of Morocco's most spectacular natural attractions. The Dadès Gorges (two hours by car) and Toudgha Gorges (two and a half hours) feature dramatic canyons carved through ancient limestone and red rock by powerful rivers.
Closer to Ouarzazate, the Fint Oasis lives up to its Amazigh name meaning 'hidden'. This tranquil green spot remains relatively untouched by mass tourism. Visitors might encounter women washing clothes in the river or children playing in the shallows. La Terrace des Délices provides the perfect spot for mint tea while admiring views of date palms and traditional mudbrick villages.
As the 'gateway to the desert', Ouarzazate serves as the ideal starting point for visits to the Erg Chebbi dunes in Merzouga or Erg Lihoudi near M'Hamid. Many travellers spend a few days in the city before embarking on unforgettable desert camping experiences under the stars.
Practical Travel Information
Ouarzazate's hotel scene is undergoing significant upgrades. New openings include the Amanar Hôtel & Spa (£133 per night) with its impressive 9.3/10 Booking.com rating. For the full cinematic experience, Le Berbère Palace (from £267 per night) combines old-school luxury with Hollywood flair, complete with palm-lined courtyards, a glamorous pool and corridors filled with movie memorabilia.
Budget-conscious travellers can opt for Tin Joseph (£71 per night), which earns its 9.3/10 rating through exceptional hospitality that guests describe as going above and beyond.
Reaching Ouarzazate is straightforward with Ryanair's direct flights from London Stansted, though services operate only a few times weekly. Alternatives include stopping in Casablanca for connecting flights or taking the scenic four-hour bus journey from Marrakech for just £7.
The best times to visit are spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when temperatures are mild and days pleasant. If timing your visit around festivals, the Amazigh New Year in January features traditional celebrations, while the Rose Festival in nearby Kelâat M'Gouna during early May marks the end of the harvest with parades, music and rose-based products.
Practical tips for Moroccan travel include purchasing a local SIM card since most UK contracts don't include roaming, carrying Moroccan dirhams (especially coins for smaller purchases and tips), and being cautious about tap water to avoid 'traveller's belly'.
