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Explore Morocco
Welcome to Ouarzazate
The Gateway to the Sahara and Morocco’s City of Cinema
Ouarzazate, often called the “Gateway to the Sahara Desert”, is a city of contrasts where golden desert landscapes meet historic kasbahs and modern film studios. Nestled in southern Morocco at the edge of the Atlas Mountains, Ouarzazate has long been a crossroads for travelers, traders, and adventurers exploring the beauty and mystery of the Moroccan south.
Where is Ouarzazate?
Ouarzazate is a city in southern Morocco, located at the edge of the Atlas Mountains and the gateway to the Sahara Desert. It is about 4 hours from Marrakech and 5 hours from Fes.
Why visit Ouarzazate?
The city is famous for its historic kasbahs, the stunning desert landscapes nearby, and as Morocco’s “Hollywood,” where many famous films have been shot.
What can you do in Ouarzazate?
Visitors can explore ancient kasbahs, visit world-famous film studios, enjoy the local markets, and take day trips to the desert, mountains, and nearby villages.
Ouarzazate is perfect for travelers who want culture, history, adventure, and unique Moroccan experiences all in one place.
Top Ouarzazate Posts
Here you get the Latest best Travel posts about Ouarzazate
Quick Facts
Distances from Ouarzazate
- Marrakech → 195 km (4 hours)
- Agadir → 350 km
- Casablanca → 450 km
- Fes → 520 km
- Merzouga → 360 km
How to Get to Ouarzazate
By Bus
- CTM
- Supratours
- Local buses
- Travel times + approximate prices
By Car
- Road conditions (Tichka Pass description)
- Best stops on the way
- Safety notes
By Plane
- Ouarzazate International Airport (OZZ)
- Flights from Casablanca, Marrakech, Paris, etc.
By Private Transfer
- Option for comfort + price range
Where to Stay in Ouarzazate
Best Hotels
- Berbère Palace
- Le Temple des Arts
- Dar Chamaa
- Oscar Hotel
Best Riads
- Riad Ouarzazate
- Riad Dar Rita
Best Areas to Stay:
- Near the Kasbah
- Taourirt
- City center
- Fint Oasis surroundings
Best Time to Visit Ouarzazate
Season breakdown:
- Spring (March–May) — BEST
- Autumn (Sept–Nov) — BEST
- Summer — very hot
- Winter — cold nights
Where to Eat in Ouarzazate
Best Local Food
- Tagine
- Berber pizza
- Couscous
- Mint tea
Best Restaurants
- Habous
- Douyria
- La Kasbah des Sables
- Le Jardin des Aromes
Best Cafés
- Café Glacier
- Café Taourirt
- City center cafés
Travel Tips for Ouarzazate
- Safety (very safe)
- Clothing tips
- Money + ATM availability
- SIM cards
- Transport inside the city
- Taxi prices
- Bargaining tips
- Desert weather advice
Best ouarzazate Trips and Tours
Dive into the world of wanderlust with our popular travel blog posts and guides about the Best Tours and Trips in Ouarzazate
Stay in Ouarzazate
Unforgettable Adventures Across Golden Sands
Eat in Ouarzazate
Unforgettable Adventures Across Golden Sands
Top Attractions in Ouarzazate
Safety & Travel Tips
Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.
Dress modestly, especially in religious sites.
ATMs are available; credit cards accepted in most hotels/restaurants.
Tipping is appreciated (5–10%).
French and Arabic are useful; English works in tourist zones.
Map & Directions
Getting to Ouarzazate
Casablanca (Arabic: الدار البيضاء – Dar al-Bayda) is located on Morocco’s Atlantic coast, about 90 km (56 miles) southwest of Rabat, the capital city. It’s the largest city in Morocco and the country’s main economic hub.
✈️ By Air:
- Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) is about 30 km south of the city center.
- It’s the main gateway for international travelers.
- From the airport:
- 🚆 Train: 45–50 min to Casa Voyageurs Station.
- 🚖 Taxi: 30–40 min depending on traffic.
By Train:
- Casablanca is well-connected via the ONCF rail network.
- Major train stations:
Casa Voyageurs (main hub)
Casa Port (near downtown and the Corniche)
High-speed Al Boraq trains connect Casablanca with Tangier in just 2 hours.
By Bus:
- Long-distance buses (CTM, Supratours) arrive at Oulad Ziane Bus Station.
- Buses connect Casablanca with Marrakech, Rabat, Fez, Agadir, and other cities.
By Car:
- Casablanca is linked by modern highways:
- From Rabat: via A3 (1 hour)
- From Marrakech: via A7 (2.5 hours)
- From El Jadida: via A5 (1 hour 15 minutes)
| Title | Description | Date |
|---|---|---|
| National Ahwach Arts Festival | Traditional Ahwach dance and singing festival, preserving Amazigh heritage through music, workshops, carnivals, and performances. | 1792764000 23rd October 2026 - 25th October 2026 |
| Cultural & Artistic Art Square (Place de l’art culturel) | A regular cultural activation in Al Muwahideen Square, with Gnawa music, Aissaoua performances, visual artists, and local troupes. | 1780927200 8th June 2026 - 31st July 2026 |
| 7th Ouaouzgite Carpet Festival | A festival celebrating traditional carpet-making in the region; highlights local craft and design. | 1793995200 6th November 2026 - 9th July 2026 |
| International Folklore Festival “Red Sand” | A gathering of folklore dance and musical groups from around the world; focuses on traditional dance, costume, and folklore arts. | 1791489600 8th October 2026 - 12th October 1909 |
Ouarzazate FAQ
Where is Ouarzazate located?
Ouarzazate is in southern Morocco, between the High Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert.
How far is Ouarzazate from Marrakech?
About 195 km — around 4 hours by road.
Is Ouarzazate safe for tourists?
Yes. Ouarzazate is considered one of the safest cities in Morocco.
What is Ouarzazate famous for?
It is known as the Gateway to the Sahara and the Hollywood of Africa because many movies were filmed here.
What movies were filmed in Ouarzazate?
Gladiator, Game of Thrones, The Mummy, Kingdom of Heaven, and many more.
What is the best time to visit Ouarzazate?
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (September–November) have the best weather.
How many days do you need in Ouarzazate?
At least 2 days, but 3–4 days is ideal to explore the city and take day trips.
Can you visit the Sahara Desert from Ouarzazate?
Yes. You can reach the desert in Zagora (2 hours) or Merzouga (5–6 hours).
Does Ouarzazate have an airport?
Yes, Ouarzazate Airport (OZZ) with flights mainly from Casablanca and some European cities.
How do you get to Ouarzazate?
By bus (CTM, Supratours), private car, taxi, or flight.
What can you see in Ouarzazate?
Kasbah Taourirt, Atlas Film Studios, Cinema Museum, Fint Oasis, and Lake Mansour Eddahbi.
Are there good hotels in Ouarzazate?
Yes. The city has luxury hotels, riads, and budget accommodations.
Is Ouarzazate expensive?
No, it’s more affordable than Marrakech or Casablanca.
What food is Ouarzazate known for?
Tagine, couscous, Berber pizza, and fresh Moroccan mint tea.
What language is spoken in Ouarzazate?
Locals speak Tamazight (Berber) and Moroccan Arabic. French is widely understood.
Can you walk around the city easily?
Yes, Ouarzazate is small, calm, and easy to explore on foot.
What is the weather like in Ouarzazate?
Hot summers, cool evenings, mild winters, and lots of sunshine all year.
Is Ouarzazate good for families?
Yes, it’s very family-friendly and calm.
What is the meaning of “Ouarzazate”?
It comes from the Amazigh language and means “without noise” or “a quiet place.”
What are the best day trips from Ouarzazate?
Ait Ben Haddou, Skoura, Draa Valley, Dades Gorges, Todgha Gorges, Fint Oasis, and Zagora desert.