Desert & Sahara · 3 min read
Things to Do in Ouarzazate: Film Studios, Kasbahs and Desert Gateway (2026)
Quick answer
Things to do in Ouarzazate include touring the Atlas Film Studios, visiting the Taourirt kasbah, exploring the Fint oasis and the Skoura palm grove with its kasbahs, and seeing the Noor solar complex from the road. Ouarzazate is about 200 km (4 hours) from Marrakech and is the gateway to the Draa valley, the Dades and the Sahara.
Ouarzazate grew from a French garrison town into Morocco's "Hollywood" and the gateway to the south. Most travellers pass through on a desert tour — here is what deserves a stop.
Top things to do
- Atlas Film Studios — walk through sets of ancient Egypt, Jerusalem and Tibet used by international productions.
- Taourirt kasbah — the former residence of the Glaoui family, with painted rooms and labyrinthine courtyards.
- Fint oasis — a green palm grove hidden in a rocky valley, 15 km away.
- Skoura palm grove — kasbahs like Amridil among thousands of palms, on the road to the Dades.
- Ait Benhaddou — the famous ksar, 30 km away; read the Ait Benhaddou guide.
- The Noor solar complex — a modern landmark seen from the road.
How long to stay
Half a day is enough for the highlights; stay a night if you want Fint and Skoura at a slow pace.
Getting there
Ouarzazate is 4 hours from Marrakech over the Tizi n'Tichka pass. Options: the Ait Benhaddou & Ouarzazate day trip, a private transfer to Ouarzazate, or the 5-day Morocco tour, which spends a night nearby.
Tips
- Studio tours are guided; allow about an hour.
- Bring sun protection — shade is rare.
- Taste local dates and almonds at roadside stalls.
For history and context, see Ouarzazate on Wikipedia.
FAQ
Is Ouarzazate worth visiting?
Yes as a stop on the way to the desert: the film studios, Taourirt kasbah and nearby Ait Benhaddou make a great half-day or day.
How far is Ouarzazate from Marrakech?
About 200 km, around 4 hours by road over the Tizi n'Tichka pass.
Can you visit the film studios?
Yes, the Atlas Film Studios offer guided tours of sets from famous productions.
What is the Noor solar plant?
One of the world's largest concentrated solar power complexes, visible near Ouarzazate.
Morocco Travels Team
Written by the Morocco Travels team in Marrakech — local guides and drivers who run these routes every week. We update our guides each season with current prices, opening hours and road conditions.
