Ouarzazate

One of the most intriguing places to visit in southern central Morocco is Ouarzazate, Morocco. Pronounced Warzazat, the historic town is located in the Souss-Massa-Drâa. Its name is derived from a Berber word that means "without noise" or "without confusion." Historically, Ouarzazate was a key stop for African traders snaking up to northern Moroccan and European towns. During the time of the French occupation, Ouarzazate rose to prominence as a military town and administrative center. It is currently the largest town in Morocco's Sahara region.

Ouarzazate is around 200 kilometers south of Marrakech and is a wonderful day trip from the capital. There are a number of tour and excursions offered from Marrakech to Ouarzazate. In fact, many Sahara trips begin or end at Ouarzazate, which is also on our itinerary of Morocco trips. The region around Ouarzazate is characterized by striking landscapes, mud-brick kasbahs, and secluded oases dotted with palm palms. Ouarzazate is lauded for its film studios, which have produced internationally acclaimed films along with the well-preserved Kasbah Taourirt.

This city was built in 1928 as a tiny Berber community but rapidly grew to become a vibrant hub for handicrafts and commerce thanks to its beautiful scenery and prime spot. This location is still considered an important traffic hub in southern Morocco, as well as a booming tourist destination. Ouarzazate is a site every traveler should visit while in Morocco!  

Trekking in the Sahara is an undeniably exhilarating experience. Walking on foot, camel rides, horseback rides, and ATV rides are all available options for your comfort. Kasbah Taourirt,Cinema Museum, Ouarzazate Film Studios, Ait-Ben-Haddou, Kasbah Amridil,Gas Haven and Fint Oasis are all sites that tell an ancestral story whether in the folds of the ruins or a story of an old moroccan version of hollywood.  

Ouarzazate is quite safe, but you should always take precautions. Avoid going into unknown areas late at night. The crime rate in the Moroccan south is low, but it's always better to play it safe. In Morocco, speeding is monitored by the police (with laser guns and can be seen all along major highways connecting the coast with the main cities (Rabat, Agadir, Essaouira, Marrakech, Ouarzazate, Casablanca). So be cautious, especially on routes where the maximum speed is 40 or 60 km/h. Ouarzazate is one of Morocco's most charming cities. That’s why we added it to our itinerary, so  you can experience it yourself and share it with us on Instagram to be featured.