Ouarzazate Morocco
Ouarzazate, Morocco is an enchanting city steeped in cultural heritage. Set against a dramatic desert backdrop, the city is a gateway to amazing sights and experiences, such as the fortified Kasbah Taourirt, the magical Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, and the stunning Palais Des Raïs. With a rich Berber and Islamic history, Ouarzazate has something for everyone to explore.
Summary
- Attraction Name: Ouarzazate
- Country: Morocco
- Continent: African
- Capital Name: Rabat
- Language: Arabic and Standard Moroccan Berber
- Currency: Moroccan Dirham
- Nationality: Moroccan(s)
Tell us about Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate is a Moroccan city located in the Souss-Massa region of the region, southeast of Morocco. It is best known for its film industry, desert attractions, and proximity to nearby mountain villages. It is sometimes referred to as the “Gateway to the Desert”. Ouarzazate is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Morocco, thanks to its beautiful desert landscapes, ancient ruins, and friendly locals.
Popular tourist activities include camel and 4×4 safaris, trekking, and visits to some of the many film studios in the area. Popular sites in the city include the Taourirt Kasbah, Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, and Tifoullit. Ouarzazate is also home to one of the biggest solar plant complexes in the world. The tourism sector is developing rapidly in Ouarzazate, and there are a number of luxurious hotels, restaurants, and other attractions in the city.
What are the things to do in Ouarzazate?
Ouarzazate is a magical oasis in the Moroccan Sahara. It has a tremendous amount of activities to do, offering guests plenty of options to explore the surrounding countryside, soak up in adventure, and take in the unique culture.
The stunning historical site of the Atlas Film Studio is a must-visit attraction, and the set has been used for several major films including Gladiator, Prince of Persia, Babel and Lawrence of Arabia. Tourists can wander around the studios, be awed by the huge replica of a Babylonian palace, and get their photo taken in front of a giant original entrance-gate from the filming of Cleopatra.
The immense Ksar of Aït Benhaddou is a perfect place to explore the traditional Moroccan architecture. The old-fashioned mud structures date back to the 17th century, and the village has been used as a setting for movies such as Gladiator and Prince of Persia. Tourists can buy crafts and souvenirs from the local market, or take the cable-car to the top overlooking the city.
The nearby mountain of Tazzeka is a great spot for hikers, with mesmerizing trails across the rugged terrain. Climb to the summit to watch the unbelievable sunset and snap some fantastic photographs.
The smaller town of Skoura offers an enjoyable change of scenery, with lush palms and oases nestled among deserted red hills. Stroll through the traditional Coranic school, soak in the relaxed atmosphere of the Kasbah Amridil or wander through the verdant gardens of Ait Aboubdallah.
Finally, no visit to Ouarzazate is complete without dipping into the Tinfou Dunes to experience the pure desert tranquility. Obtain a camel, hire a local guide, walk across the vast sand and bed down with the nomads to get a unique taste of real nomadic life.
What are the best foods at Ouarzazate?
Some of the best dishes at Ouarzazate include:
- Tagine, which is a slow-cooked stew of vegetables, meat, spices and sometimes dried fruit.
- Tajine aux Ksra, which is a baked dish made with a dough and cheese filling.
- Couscous, which is a dish of steamed semolina.
- A variety of spicy Moroccan salads including Zaalouk, Matisha, Beghrir and Salada Faouka.
- Harira, which is a traditional soup made of lentils, chickpeas, vegetables and spices.
- Bamia, a dish made from okra and tomatoes in a tomato-based sauce.
- Mechoui, a roasted lamb or beef dish.
- Sfenj, a fried doughnut.
- Slaoui b’gaim, a spiced cake.
- Coffee and tea, including mint tea.
What are the best hotels to stay in Ouarzazate?
The best hotels to stay in Ouarzazate are:
- Les Jardins de Ouarzazate
- Kasbah Tizouka
- Palace Amalou
- Palais Sebban
- Hotel Jebel Sahro
- Hotel Dar Ahlam
- Les Jardins de Zalagh
- Hotel Atlas Kasbah
- Hotel Kenzi Azghor
- Hotel Dar Zitoune
