About Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate is a city located in southern Morocco, known for its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It is often referred to as the “Gateway to the Sahara” due to its proximity to the desert. Ouarzazate is famous for its stunning landscapes, including the Atlas Mountains, desert dunes, and ancient kasbahs.
One of the most iconic landmarks in Ouarzazate is the Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, such as “Gladiator” and “Game of Thrones.” The city is also home to the Atlas Film Studios, one of the largest film studios in the world, where many international movies have been filmed.
In addition to its scenic beauty and cinematic history, Ouarzazate has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of Berber, Arab, and Saharan traditions. Visitors to the city can explore traditional markets, sample local cuisine, and learn about the region’s history at the Taourirt Kasbah and the Museum of Cinema.
Ouarzazate is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and cinematic allure.
Ouarzazate History
The history of Ouarzazate dates back to ancient times, with evidence of human settlement in the region dating back to prehistoric times. The city has a rich and varied history, shaped by various civilizations and cultures that have inhabited the area over the centuries.
One of the earliest known settlements in the Ouarzazate region was established by the Berber people, who have inhabited North Africa for thousands of years. The Berbers played a significant role in shaping the culture and identity of the region.
In medieval times, Ouarzazate was an important trading post along the trans-Saharan trade routes that connected North Africa to Sub-Saharan Africa. The city’s strategic location made it a key stopping point for caravans traveling through the region.
Ouarzazate also played a role in the history of the Almoravid dynasty, a Berber dynasty that ruled parts of North Africa and Spain in the 11th and 12th centuries. The city was a stronghold for the Almoravids and served as a military outpost and administrative center.
During the period of European colonization in North Africa, Ouarzazate became a French garrison town and an important administrative center. The French built various infrastructure and facilities in the city, including military barracks, government buildings, and a prison.
In modern times, Ouarzazate has become a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning desert landscapes, historic kasbahs, and the nearby Atlas Film Studios, which have been used as a filming location for numerous Hollywood movies and TV shows.
The history of Ouarzazate is a rich tapestry of Berber traditions, medieval trade routes, colonial influences, and modern tourism. The city’s heritage is reflected in its architecture, culture, and the enduring legacy of its diverse historical influences.
Best Time to Visit Ouarzazate
The best time to visit Ouarzazate is during the spring and fall months, specifically from March to May and September to November. During these times, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city and its surrounding attractions. The temperatures are not too hot, and there is less chance of rainfall compared to the winter months. Additionally, these periods are less crowded with tourists, allowing for a more peaceful and enjoyable experience.
Best Things to Do in Ouarzazate
Visit the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a stunning example of traditional mud-brick architecture and has been used as a filming location for many movies, including “Gladiator” and “Game of Thrones.”
Explore the Atlas Film Studios: Ouarzazate is known as the Hollywood of Morocco, and visiting the Atlas Film Studios gives you a behind-the-scenes look at where many famous movies have been filmed.
Discover the Taourirt Kasbah: This historic fortified palace is a must-visit in Ouarzazate, with its intricate architecture and beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Take a trip to the Draa Valley: Just outside of Ouarzazate, the Draa Valley is a lush oasis filled with date palm groves, ancient kasbahs, and stunning desert landscapes.
Go on a desert excursion: Ouarzazate is the gateway to the Sahara Desert, so be sure to take a camel trek or 4×4 excursion into the dunes for a truly unforgettable experience.
Visit the Cinema Museum: Learn about the history of filmmaking in Morocco and see props and costumes from famous movies at the Cinema Museum in Ouarzazate.
Relax at a traditional hammam: After a day of exploring, treat yourself to a relaxing spa experience at one of Ouarzazate’s traditional hammams.
Shop at the local souks: Explore the bustling markets of Ouarzazate to shop for traditional handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs to take home with you.
Weather in Ouarzazate
The weather in Ouarzazate is generally hot and dry, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C (104°F) in the summer months. Winters are mild, with temperatures dropping to around 15°C (59°F). Rainfall is rare in Ouarzazate, with most of it occurring during the winter months from November to February. It is important to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen when visiting Ouarzazate, especially during the hot summer months.
Popular Ouarzazate Monuments
Kasbah Taourirt: This ancient fortress was once the residence of the Glaoui dynasty, who ruled the region in the 19th and 20th centuries. The kasbah is a UNESCO World Heritage site and features intricate mud-brick architecture and beautifully decorated interiors.
Atlas Film Studios: Ouarzazate is often referred to as the “Hollywood of Africa,” thanks to its Atlas Film Studios. The studios have been the filming location for numerous blockbuster movies and TV series, including “Gladiator,” “Game of Thrones,” and “The Mummy.”
Ait Ben Haddou: Although located just outside Ouarzazate, Ait Ben Haddou is a must-visit monument in the region. This ancient fortified village is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has been featured in several films, making it a popular tourist destination.
Ksar of Tifoultoute: This ancient fortress is situated on a hill overlooking Ouarzazate and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The ksar is well-preserved and provides insight into traditional Berber architecture and way of life.
Cinema Museum: For film enthusiasts, the Cinema Museum in Ouarzazate is a fascinating stop. The museum showcases the history of filmmaking in the region and displays props, costumes, and memorabilia from various movies filmed in Ouarzazate.
Best Day Trips from Ouarzazate
Ait Ben Haddou: Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, an ancient fortified village that has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, including Game of Thrones. Explore the mud-brick kasbah and learn about its history and significance.
Draa Valley: Take a scenic drive along the Draa Valley, known for its lush palm groves, ancient kasbahs, and traditional Berber villages. Stop at the village of Agdz to visit a local market and see traditional crafts being made.
Todra Gorge: Head to the Todra Gorge, a stunning canyon in the High Atlas Mountains known for its towering rock walls and crystal-clear river. You can hike along the gorge, visit nearby Berber villages, or even try rock climbing.
Skoura Oasis: Visit the Skoura Oasis, a peaceful palm grove dotted with historic kasbahs and lush gardens. Take a walk through the oasis, visit the Amridil Kasbah, and enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch at a local restaurant.
Dades Valley: Explore the Dades Valley, a beautiful area known for its dramatic red cliffs, fertile valleys, and traditional Berber settlements. Drive along the famous “Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs” and visit the Dades Gorge for breathtaking views.
