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Ouarzazate

Morocco · City · MAD · 30.918900, -6.893400
Family friendly 7.1/10 · Rank 656 of 2 709
Best season: March-May, September-November

Best for

Ouarzazate suits lovers of cinema, history, and desert landscapes. The city is not suitable for beach lovers and active nightlife seekers.

Best season

March-May, September-November

Daily budget
$67.00 (≈ 5 623 ₽ · ≈ 670 MAD)
For 7 days
$469.00 (≈ 39 358 ₽ · ≈ 4 690 MAD)
Ouarzazate is the "Gateway to the Desert", located at the foot of the High Atlas. The city is known as "Morocco's Hollywood" for its film studios and the ancient fortified village of Ait Benhaddou — a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is an ideal base for trips to the Sahara dunes and the Draa Valley.
Summer
39.0°C
Winter
2.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

calm

Pace of life

slow

Local character

The residents of Ouarzazate are mainly Arabs and Berbers, descendants of the ancient peoples of Morocco. They are known for their hard work, hospitality, and pride in their city, which is called the "gateway to the desert."

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Unique film studio: the opportunity to see sets from famous films.
  • Rich historical heritage: Ait Ben Haddou and Taourirt Kasbahs.
  • Picturesque nature: desert, oases, and the Draa Valley.
  • Affordable prices: accommodation, food, and transport are cheaper than in Europe.
  • Gastronomy: tagine, couscous, and Berber pizza.
  • Friendly locals: Moroccans are known for their hospitality.
  • Direct flights from Moscow: convenient transport accessibility.

Cons

  • No sea: the nearest beaches are 250 km away.
  • Hot summers: temperatures can reach 40°C.
  • Limited nightlife: entertainment is concentrated in a few restaurants and bars.
  • Limited English: communication may be difficult in remote areas.
  • Traffic jams: during rush hours, moving around the city can take a long time.
  • Limited attractions: the city is small, with main sites located outside it.
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
32.7°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
39.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
39.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
12.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
17.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
2.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
November-March
Attractions

Atlas Studios

The largest film studio in Africa, where films such as Gladiator, The Mummy, and Game of Thrones were shot. Tours allow you to see sets and costumes. A must-visit for film buffs.

Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah

An ancient earthen fortress 30 km from Ouarzazate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Featured in dozens of films. Impressive architecture and panoramic views.

Taourirt Kasbah

A historic fortress in the center of Ouarzazate, once the residence of a pasha. Today it houses a museum with collections of ceramics and textiles.

El Mansour Lake

A picturesque lake 5 km from Ouarzazate, known for its views and fishing opportunities. A popular place for picnics and sunset watching.

Draa Valley

A picturesque valley with palm groves and earthen villages. A popular place for trekking and getting acquainted with Berber culture.

Klaa Studios

Another film studio where famous films were shot. Tours allow you to see sets and learn about the filming process.

Ouarzazate Market

A lively market in the city center selling fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts. An excellent place to get acquainted with local culture.

Best areas

City Centre

The administrative and commercial center of Ouarzazate with hotels, restaurants, and the market. A convenient place to stay and explore the city.

Kasbah Area

The area around the Taourirt fortress with hotels and guesthouses. Popular among history lovers.

Film Studio Area

The area where the Atlas and Klaa film studios are located. Popular among film buffs.

Lake Area

The area around El Mansour Lake with hotels and restaurants. Popular among nature lovers.

Northern District

A residential area with affordable hotels and local cafes. A calm atmosphere.

Southern District

A quiet area with local cafes and shops. A good choice for budget travelers.

Must-try food

Tagine

Meat or fish stewed with vegetables and dried fruits in a clay pot with a conical lid. The main dish of Moroccan cuisine.

Couscous

A traditional dish of small steamed wheat granules with meat, vegetables, and chickpeas.

Harira

A thick soup of lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and lamb with herbs and spices.

Pastilla

A layered pie of thin warqa pastry filled with pigeon, chicken, or seafood.

Mint Tea

The national drink of Morocco, served with green tea, fresh mint, and plenty of sugar.

Berber Pizza

A thin flatbread stuffed with meat, vegetables, and spices, baked in a clay oven. A traditional Berber dish.

Dates

Local dates grown in the Draa Valley. Sweet and nutritious.

Where to go next

Ait Ben Haddou

An ancient fortress 30 km from Ouarzazate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A popular destination for excursions.

Draa Valley

A picturesque valley 40 km from Ouarzazate with palm groves and Berber villages.

Agadir

A resort city 250 km from Ouarzazate with beaches and hotels.

Marrakech

A city 200 km from Ouarzazate, known for its medina and Jemaa el-Fnaa square.

Zagora

A town 100 km from Ouarzazate, known for its palm groves and earthen architecture.

Tata

A town 150 km from Ouarzazate, known for its oases and historical monuments.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
low
Getting there
Nearest airports
Уарзазат (OZZ).
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Visa
Visa requirements
not required
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
March-May, September-November
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 100 MAD
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$45.00
≈ 3 776 ₽ · ≈ 450 MAD
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$80.00
≈ 6 714 ₽ · ≈ 800 MAD
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$150.00
≈ 12 588 ₽ · ≈ 1 500 MAD
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$150.00
≈ 12 588 ₽ · ≈ 1 500 MAD
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$40.00
≈ 3 357 ₽ · ≈ 400 MAD
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 40 MAD
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$16.00
≈ 1 343 ₽ · ≈ 160 MAD
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$1.50
≈ 126 ₽ · ≈ 15 MAD
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽ · ≈ 25 MAD
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽ · ≈ 5 MAD
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$7.00
≈ 587 ₽ · ≈ 70 MAD
Burger
Average price for a burger
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 50 MAD
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽ · ≈ 25 MAD
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 50 MAD
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 150 MAD
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽ · ≈ 5 MAD
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 30 MAD
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$45.00
≈ 3 776 ₽ · ≈ 450 MAD
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 80 MAD
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 150 MAD
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 350 MAD
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
—
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 500 MAD
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 100 MAD
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 100 MAD
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Frequently asked questions
Ouarzazate: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is March-May, September-November. At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Ouarzazate: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +39.0°C, during the day — up to +39.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Ouarzazate: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +2.0°C, during the day — up to +17.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Ouarzazate: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on November-March. During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Ouarzazate: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $67.00 (≈ 5 623 ₽ · ≈ 670 MAD) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Ouarzazate: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $10.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $45.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $80.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $150.00 per night, an apartment — $40.00 per night, a villa — $150.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Ouarzazate: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $4.00, dinner at a restaurant — $16.00, a cup of cappuccino — $1.50, a 0.5L beer — $2.50, a 1.5L bottle of water — $0.50. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Ouarzazate: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $15.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.50, a short taxi ride — $3.00, car rental — $45.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Ouarzazate: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Atlas Studios — The largest film studio in Africa, where films such as Gladiator, The Mummy, and Game of Thrones were shot. Tours allow you to see sets and costumes. A must-visit for film buffs.; Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah — An ancient earthen fortress 30 km from Ouarzazate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Featured in dozens of films. Impressive architecture and panoramic views.; Taourirt Kasbah — A historic fortress in the center of Ouarzazate, once the residence of a pasha. Today it houses a museum with collections of ceramics and textiles.; El Mansour Lake — A picturesque lake 5 km from Ouarzazate, known for its views and fishing opportunities. A popular place for picnics and sunset watching.; Draa Valley — A picturesque valley with palm groves and earthen villages. A popular place for trekking and getting acquainted with Berber culture.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Ouarzazate: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Tagine — Meat or fish stewed with vegetables and dried fruits in a clay pot with a conical lid. The main dish of Moroccan cuisine.; Couscous — A traditional dish of small steamed wheat granules with meat, vegetables, and chickpeas.; Harira — A thick soup of lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes, and lamb with herbs and spices.; Pastilla — A layered pie of thin warqa pastry filled with pigeon, chicken, or seafood.; Mint Tea — The national drink of Morocco, served with green tea, fresh mint, and plenty of sugar.; Berber Pizza — A thin flatbread stuffed with meat, vegetables, and spices, baked in a clay oven. A traditional Berber dish.; Dates — Local dates grown in the Draa Valley. Sweet and nutritious.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Ouarzazate: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: City Centre — The administrative and commercial center of Ouarzazate with hotels, restaurants, and the market. A convenient place to stay and explore the city.; Kasbah Area — The area around the Taourirt fortress with hotels and guesthouses. Popular among history lovers.; Film Studio Area — The area where the Atlas and Klaa film studios are located. Popular among film buffs.; Lake Area — The area around El Mansour Lake with hotels and restaurants. Popular among nature lovers.; Northern District — A residential area with affordable hotels and local cafes. A calm atmosphere.; Southern District — A quiet area with local cafes and shops. A good choice for budget travelers.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Ouarzazate: is a visa required?
Visa: not required. Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Ouarzazate: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Уарзазат (code OZZ). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $15.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Ouarzazate: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — MAD. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $67.00 (≈ 5 623 ₽ · ≈ 670 MAD). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Ouarzazate: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Ouarzazate: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as low. There is not much nightlife, but the basics are available.
Ouarzazate: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Ait Ben Haddou — An ancient fortress 30 km from Ouarzazate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A popular destination for excursions.; Draa Valley — A picturesque valley 40 km from Ouarzazate with palm groves and Berber villages.; Agadir — A resort city 250 km from Ouarzazate with beaches and hotels.; Marrakech — A city 200 km from Ouarzazate, known for its medina and Jemaa el-Fnaa square.; Zagora — A town 100 km from Ouarzazate, known for its palm groves and earthen architecture.; Tata — A town 150 km from Ouarzazate, known for its oases and historical monuments.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

7.1/10
Overall rank: 656 of 2 709
Rank among cities: 188

Best season

March-May, September-November

Useful information

Currency: MAD
Coordinates: 30.918900, -6.893400