03/04/2025
Ouarzazate is often referred to as the "Gateway to the Sahara," and it's a fantastic base for exploring Morocco's southern landscapes. There are several tours and excursions you can take from Ouarzazate to experience its diverse attractions. Here are some of the top options:
1. Ait Benhaddou & Atlas Film Studios Tour
Duration: Full-day tour
Highlights: A visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site Ait Benhaddou, a stunning ksar (fortified village) made of earthen clay, often used in movies like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Then, explore Atlas Film Studios, the world’s largest film studio complex, where many famous movies have been shot.
Why Go: It’s a great way to experience Moroccan history and cinematic culture in one trip. You’ll get to walk through an ancient fortified village and see movie sets and props.
2. Draa Valley & Kasbahs Excursion
Duration: Full-day tour
Highlights: A scenic drive through the Draa Valley, famous for its palm groves and kasbahs, including Kasbah Taourirt and Kasbah Amridil. Visit the oasis towns of Agdz and Tamegroute, and perhaps even explore the famous Tamegroute library with ancient manuscripts.
Why Go: This tour offers a look into the traditional life of the Berber people and allows you to see beautiful landscapes and ancient architecture.
3. Zagora & Desert Excursion
Duration: Full-day to 2-day trip
Highlights: Travel south towards Zagora, a town on the edge of the desert. From here, you can head further into the Sahara Desert, and even ride camels into the dunes at Mhamid or Erg Chigaga. You may also visit Tamegroute, famous for its green pottery and ancient Koranic library.
Why Go: It’s the perfect excursion if you want to experience a glimpse of the Sahara without venturing too far. Enjoy a camel ride and a desert night under the stars.
4. Oasis of Skoura & Valley of Roses
Duration: Full-day tour
Highlights: Visit the beautiful Skoura Oasis with its palm groves and ancient kasbahs like Kasbah Amridil. Then, explore the Valley of Roses, known for its stunning landscape and the cultivation of damask roses used to make rosewater and perfume.
Why Go: This excursion offers a combination of nature, culture, and stunning landscapes, and it’s a great choice if you love photography and scenic views.
5. Todgha Gorge & Dades Valley Tour
Duration: Full-day to 2-day trip
Highlights: Visit the Todgha Gorge, famous for its towering cliffs and natural beauty, then continue to the Dades Valley, known as the "Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs." You’ll get to enjoy hiking or just marvel at the dramatic scenery.
Why Go: This tour offers fantastic landscapes, including dramatic gorges and valleys, and is ideal for nature lovers and hikers.
6. M'Goun Valley & Berber Villages
Duration: 2-day tour
Highlights: Explore the stunning M'Goun Valley, passing through Berber villages, lush valleys, and orchards. You’ll see the M'Goun Mountain, one of the highest peaks in the Atlas range. Some tours include a trek to the summit for adventurous travelers.
Why Go: For those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, this tour provides an immersive cultural experience in remote Berber villages.
7. Ouarzazate City Tour
Duration: Half-day tour
Highlights: Explore the Kasbah Taourirt, the Ouarzazate Film Museum, and the Tifoultoute Kasbah. A guided tour of the city offers insights into the history, culture, and architecture of this important gateway city.
Why Go: If you have limited time, this tour gives you a compact yet fascinating overview of Ouarzazate’s history and landmarks.
8. Saharan Adventure Tours (Camel Trekking and Camping)
Duration: 2-3 days
Highlights: If you're looking for a real desert experience, camel trekking tours to Erg Chigaga or Erg Chebbi are popular choices. Spend a night in a desert camp and experience the tranquility of the Sahara under the stars.
Why Go: If you’ve never been to the Sahara, this is a must-do experience. The desert offers a unique, peaceful, and otherworldly atmosphere.
Practical Tips for Touring in Ouarzazate:
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is during spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November), when the weather is more moderate. Summers can get extremely hot, especially in the desert.
Transport: Most of the tours can be done in a 4x4 vehicle, which is suitable for the rugged terrain.
What to Bring: Pack light, comfortable clothing, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), a camera, and sturdy shoes for walking or hiking.
These tours provide a great way to see the stunning landscapes, kasbahs, and culture of southern Morocco while learning about the history and traditions of the region.
