Ouarzazate, popularly referred to as being in the central part of the country, is more vividly called the “Gateway to the Sahara.” This beautiful city lies literally at the edge of the vast desert and offers historical appeal, breathtaking landscapes, and energetic culture. With striking scenery and rich history, Ouarzazate forms a perfect location for the traveler seeking adventure in the regions around. Here, we have prepared a shortlist of the best activities one can carry out in Ouarzazate, along with some practical tips for visiting. In this post, find out how Jadbox is going to make this journey to this special place simply unforgettable.
Ouarzazate, Morocco: Top Things to Do and Unique Experiences
Ouarzazate, the city of surprises, holds an architecture that speaks a story of how rich the culture and history are, and at the same time, very near to the desert but so far. What follows are among the must-visits in Ouarzazate.
1. Ait Ben Haddou
Another of the UNESCO World Heritage sites lies just outside Ouarzazate: Ait Ben Haddou. This old ksar has been in existence for a long time and is well known for its surprisingly immaculate architecture constructed in the mud-brick style and for its stunning location set right against the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. Many films have been shot here, including “Lawrence of Arabia” and “Gladiator.” Walk around its winding alleyways and uncover ancient constructions; head up to the lookout point and enjoy panoramic views.
2. Take a visit to the Taourirt Kasbah
One of the most emblematic sites in Ouarzazate is the Taourirt Kasbah. Erected in the 19th century, this kasbah used to accommodate a local family in high standing. It presents a typical example of classical Moroccan architecture. In the Kasbah, there is a complex layout of towers, courtyards, and luxuriously ornamented rooms. The Taourirt Kasbah complex is imbued with significant insight into the history of the city and its architectural heritage.
3. Atlas Film Studios
Ouarzazate: popularly known as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” partly due to these magnificent film studios. A good number of international film and TV programs have been produced in these film studios. The Atlas Film Studios is among the largest and most famous in the world. You will be taken around the sets of filming on a guided tour. The studios constitute an interesting window into the film world and the position of the film business in Ouarzazate.
4. Experience the Oasis of Fint
The site of Fint Oasis lies only a short drive west of Ouarzazate—an absolute oasis in an otherwise bone-dry environment. The atmosphere of this peaceful oasis, abounding with palm groves and dotted with classical Berber villages having a clear-flowing stream, radiates ease in its simplicity. You can do nothing, laze around, and revel in the lap of nature’s beauty at this wonderful location. Take a leisurely walk, have a picnic with beautiful views, or idle in some contemplation.
5. Cinema Museum
Located in Ouarzazate, there is a museum centered on how this locale is the center of the film industry, filled with an enormous collection of memorabilia related to Moroccan cinema and world movies. Costumes and film equipment exhibits present a view into the art and history of movie making. This is something not to be missed by movie buffs or those interested in the cultural impact of the cinema.
6. Visit of Skoura Palm Grove
Some 40 kilometers away from Ouarzazate, the Skoura Palm Grove is a considerable grove of palm trees that thickly covers the surrounding area, beautifying its landscape. The premises also hold many old kasbahs, including the fantastic Amridil Kasbah. You can leisurely walk or drive around this grove whose sight will be that of bright greenery contrasting sharply against the surrounding desert.
7. Hike the Draa Valley
The Draa Valley is south of Ouarzazate. Landscapes are dramatic, and villages are traditional. It is one of the finest trekking areas because of its meandering ancient caravan paths that snake through the flowing oases and mud-brick traditional villages, making it very unique and special to the lover of adventure and history.
8. Savor Authentic Moroccan Food
Ouarzazate gives you dining delicacies to indulge in the best Moroccan cuisine. From sumptuous tagines and couscous to sweet pastries and mint tea, the restaurants and cafes of this city offer one beautiful culinary experience. Overlook the desert or the mountain ranges lying around as you enjoy a meal, trying out the local specialties for cuisine.
9. Traditional Berber Culture
Visit local villages, share in the Berber culture, and get invited by locals who are always hospitable. You can take part in some of their traditional activities, pick up several crafts, and enjoy musical and dancing performances. You will learn and understand just how much the Berber culture impacts the history and traditions of the area.
How to Plan Your Ouarzazate Itinerary for a Memorable Visit
Below are some of the tips that will help you plan well to get the most out of your visit to Ouarzazate:
1. Determine Your Priorities
List the various attractions and activities that fit your interests. Whether historical sites, natural scenery, or even movie studios, knowing what exactly you’re after will help develop a focused and enjoyable itinerary.
2. Manage Your Time Well.
With so much to do in Ouarzazate, you have to be pretty time-conscious when visiting, planning it well not to rush from place to place. You need to strike a balance in the time during the day to take time and witness other attractions and relax.
3. Book Accommodation in Advance
This is, after all, a tourist spot, so the accommodations are more than satisfactory. Book a hotel or even better, a riad close enough to the main attractions you would like to visit at the destination, and let the quality stay experience improve your trip.
4. Transportation Plan
Individual transportation plans to places of visit need to be considered. This can be attained by renting cars or undertaking guided tours to help in accessing major attractions in and around the city.
5. Local Culture Acceptance
Connect with locals by going to community places, trying all sorts of Moroccan foods, and indulging in some of the activities mentioned above. Except in these destination places like Ouarzazate, how else can you be able to get a feel of the local culture?
Improve Your Ouarzazate Experience with Jadbox
Want to have a hassle-free and enjoyable trip to Ouarzazate? That’s where Jadbox, the realm of bespoke traveling, can help you. Our team of travel experts shall offer consultations on how best to make this visit worthwhile. From finding a comfortable place to rest your head to arranging transfers, activities, and out-of-the-ordinary experiences, we’ve got you covered for a journey that is simply without stress.
Thanks to Jadbox, you just concentrate on traveling around the sights of Ouarzazate, plunging into its cultural life, while they do the rest for you. With all their experience at hand, you definitely will not miss anything interesting in this magic city.
Conclusion
Ouarzazate, Morocco, is a city of striking contrasts and rich heritage. From the discovery of ancient kasbahs and film studios in full swing to the relaxation in the green oases and the soaking up of the culture, there remains so much more to do in this central gateway to the big desert. With a little thought, aided by Jadbox, you will set up an itinerary that will bring out the flavors of Ouarzazate and events that will have you in remembrance while visiting. Live the adventure, discover the exceptional, enjoy, and be seduced by timeless beauty in Ouarzazate.
