Ouarzazate is a city in south-central Morocco known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and significance in the film industry. It is often referred to as the “Gateway to the Desert” as most tourists pass through it on the way to the Sahara.
Moreover, it is home to Atlas Studios, one of the largest film studios in the world. The city has earned the nickname “Hollywood of Morocco” because numerous blockbuster films and TV series have been shot here, including “Gladiator,” “Lawrence of Arabia,” “The Mummy,” and “Game of Thrones”. The area’s diverse landscapes, including the Atlas Mountains and Draa Valley, provide perfect backdrops for filmmakers but also attract tourists looking for hiking, camel trekking, and exploring traditional Berber villages.
A short drive away from Ouarzazate is Skoura, a picturesque town renowned for its extensive palm groves, which are among the most beautiful and well-preserved in Morocco. These groves are irrigated by an intricate system of canals and offer a lush contrast to the surrounding arid landscapes.
The whole area is also home to numerous kasbahs, which were traditionally the residences of local rulers or tribal leaders and served defensive and administrative functions. Typically made of clay, mud brick or stone, kasbahs feature traditional, often ornate architecture, with inner courtyards, gardens and fountains.
How to get there?
To get to Ouarzazate, you have several options depending on your starting point and preferred mode of transport:
By Car
The best option is to rent a car either in Marrakesh or Agadir. There are several interesting places to see en route and the landscape is phenomenal. The distance to Ouarzazate is 192 kilometres (3.5 – 4.5 hours) from Marrakesh and 343 km (5-6 hours) from Agadir.
If you decide to start from Agadir, I recommend using the service of Click’n’Go Car Rental. Amiable guys and easy to contact on WhatsApp. I rented a Renault Clio for the whole month and got a nice price.
Skoura is another 45 km to the east of Ouarzazate.
By Bus
There are buses from Marrakech to Ouarzazate. CTM and Supratours are the most popular transport companies. From Ouarzazate to Skoura the best is to take a shared taxi.
By Shared Taxi
Shared taxis (called “grand taxis”) are available for longer distances. You can take a shared taxi from Marrakech to Ouarzazate and then another shared taxi from Ouarzazate to Skoura.
By Organized Tour
Many travel agencies in Marrakech offer day trips to Ait Benhaddou and Ouarzazate. These tours include transportation, a guide, and sometimes lunch.
The best time to visit
The best time to visit Ouarzazate and Skoura is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather is pleasantly warm, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. This makes exploring towns, hiking, and enjoying outdoor activities comfortable.
Summers can be scorching, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. While some travellers can handle the heat, it may be uncomfortable for extended outdoor activities. Winters are mild to cool, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Nights can be quite cold, especially in the desert areas.
How long to stay there?
Both Ouarzazate and Skoura can be visited in one very long day, but it would be smart to stay overnight in the area and plan some time to see Ait Benhaddou.
What to see in Ouarzazate?
Atlas Studios
You need to join a guided tour of the studio if you wish to go inside and see many film sets and props that remain in place. I honestly found it hard to believe that all those weird and a bit kitschy constructions were used in some high-budget movies.
The business was started in 1983 by Mohamed Belghmi. Since then, it has been able to grow because the area closely resembles the natural habitats of many different countries.
Films and TV series that have used the services of the studio include The Jewel of the Nile, The Living Daylights, The Mummy, Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven, Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra, Babel, Game of Thrones, Atlantis, Vikings, Prison Break, The Old Guard and others.
Cinema Museum
They have vintage film sets, props, and equipment from films shot in Ouarzazate. You are free to roam around the place as you like, no guide is needed. Since this is a museum of cinema, having video screens playing clips from the different movies that were filmed here or documentaries about their creation would have greatly improved the experience.
Taourirt Kasbah
A UNESCO World Heritage site, this impressive kasbah was once a prominent stronghold of the Glaoui family. It is one of the most striking and well-preserved specimens of its sort, the building is mostly constructed of rammed earth and mud brick. Unfortunately, it was closed during my visit in November 2023 due to the damage caused by the earthquake.
There is a parking on the other side of the street, in front of the building but don’t let them rip you off as certainly they will try to do so. Just have some small money with you.
Old Synagogue
The place contains a very old synagogue and the rabbis’ quarters which also serve as a museum for Jewish artifacts from across Morocco. I spent about half an hour exploring with the guide. Of course, in the end, he asked for a tip for his service and once I gave him that, then he asked again for a donation to maintain the place. It leaves some bitter feeling but that’s the way they do business in Morocco. Don’t miss the view from the rooftop terrace, where you can get a panoramic view of the Kasbah and the mountains.
Taourirt Mosque
A mosque located a few steps away from the old synagogue. The streets around are picturesque but they are full of children who run after you begging for money or sweets so it’s impossible to discover this in peace.
Place Mouahidine
Main square which comes alive at night with street vendors, musicians and entertainers rolling in. Zero hassles from anyone which is a nice difference after visiting Marrakesh.
Barrage El Mansour Eddahbi
The location is made up of a sizable reservoir that was created in 1972 when a hydroelectric dam was built on the Oued Drâa.
Finnt Natural Oasis
A lovely little oasis off the beaten path, consisting of a deserted village strung out alongside the river. The inhabitants seem to move to the newer part on the other side of the river.
What to see in Skoura?
Palmeraie de Skoura
There are more than 70,000 palm, fig, almond, and pomegranate trees in this enormous desert garden. This terrain is very fruitful since it has numerous canals and channels that are supplied by the Hajaj and Madri rivers. These two rivers receive their water from the mountains in the High Atlas and carry enough water to replenish the nearby aquifers. Many kasbahs are scattered across Skoura Palmeraie, making exploration very exciting.
Kasbah Amridil
All kasbahs start to look the same after a while, but I think what makes this one stand out is the amount of the structure that is original and the beautiful surroundings of the old village and palm groves. Kasbah Amridil is one of Morocco’s most famous and well-preserved structures, which is even featured on the 50 dirham banknote. It was constructed in the 17th century as an Islamic school, known in Morocco as a Zaouia, to teach the Quran.
There are two entrances with access to different parts and each costs separately. Apparently, they are owned by two brothers who fight for money. Family, huh?
Skoura Balades
If you are looking for a guide in Skoura to explore the area by hiking or cycling, this is an excellent choice. They can provide you with information about agriculture, irrigation, and local traditions or even take you further to the Gorges of Sidi Flah.
Kasbah Sidi El Maati
One of the hidden kasbahs in the area. Not so easy to find, as you have to cross the riverbed and continue further on a gravel road. You may find locals willing to show you the way or even accompany you for a tip.
Musée Memoire de Ouarzazate
Interesting place to get some background info on traditional lifestyle but I was asked 50 DM at the end of the 15-minute tour which I believe was way too much. Maybe I was unlucky with the guide as I felt I didn’t learn anything.
