Morocco’s Hollywood of Africa, a desert city ringed by film studios and the UNESCO listed Ait Benhaddou kasbah.

Why Visit Ouarzazate

Ouarzazate has earned the nickname Hollywood of Africa for its major film studios, which have hosted productions from Lawrence of Arabia to Game of Thrones, drawn by the dramatic desert light and proximity to Ait Benhaddou, a UNESCO listed fortified earthen kasbah considered one of the best preserved examples of pre-Saharan architecture in Morocco.

Top Experiences

  • Ait Benhaddou kasbah: A UNESCO listed fortified earthen village, among the best preserved examples of traditional pre-Saharan architecture and a frequent film location.
  • Atlas Film Studios: One of the world’s largest film studios, with sets from major productions open for public tours.
  • Taourirt Kasbah: A former Glaoui dynasty fortress in Ouarzazate itself, with restored rooms open to visitors.
  • Draa Valley day trip: A palm filled valley south of Ouarzazate, known for kasbahs and traditional oasis agriculture.

Book these experiences and more through guided tours from Ouarzazate.

3-Days Private Discovery of the desert from Ouarzazate to M'Hamid in 4x4

3-Days Private Discovery of the desert from Ouarzazate to M'Hamid in 4x4

★ 5.0 (27)
From USD 481.09
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Guided tour of the Palmerie de Skoura by electric mountain bike

Guided tour of the Palmerie de Skoura by electric mountain bike

★ 5.0 (26)
From USD 50.35
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Skoura Oasis E-Bike & Mountain Bike Tour – Palm Grove, & Pottery Experience

Skoura Oasis E-Bike & Mountain Bike Tour – Palm Grove, & Pottery Experience

★ 5.0 (13)
From USD 30.21
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4 Days Tour From Ouarzazate To Marrakech Via Merzouga Desert

4 Days Tour From Ouarzazate To Marrakech Via Merzouga Desert

★ 5.0 (16)
From USD 581.78
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Marrakech to Merzouga 3-Day Sahara Desert Tour Camel Ride

Marrakech to Merzouga 3-Day Sahara Desert Tour Camel Ride

★ 5.0 (15)
From USD 67.13
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Private Skoura Oasis Walking Tour and Homemade Meal with Locals

Private Skoura Oasis Walking Tour and Homemade Meal with Locals

★ 5.0 (10)
From USD 27.96
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Practical Tips

  • Ait Benhaddou is best visited early morning or late afternoon for both light and fewer tour bus crowds.
  • Combine a film studio tour with Ait Benhaddou for a full day covering Ouarzazate’s key sites.
  • Ouarzazate is a common overnight stop between Marrakech and the Sahara desert tours.

FAQ

Why is Ouarzazate called Hollywood of Africa?
Its major film studios have hosted numerous international productions, drawn by dramatic desert scenery and consistent light.

What is Ait Benhaddou?
A UNESCO listed fortified earthen village near Ouarzazate, among Morocco’s best preserved examples of traditional kasbah architecture.

Is Ouarzazate a good stop between Marrakech and the Sahara?
Yes, it is a common overnight stop on multi day desert tours from Marrakech to Merzouga.