Ouarzazate & Aït Benhaddou Tours

Desert Tours from Ouarzazate – The Gateway to the Sahara

Ouarzazate & Aït Benhaddou tours offer the perfect starting point for exploring Morocco’s Sahara Desert, with quick access to iconic sites like Merzouga, Zagora, and the dramatic dunes of Erg Chebbi—all without the long drives from the north.

Ouarzazate & Aït Benhaddou Tours: Explore Morocco's Cinematic Heartland & Ancient Kasbahs

Welcome to Ouarzazate, famously dubbed the “Hollywood of Morocco” and the “Gateway to the Sahara.” This captivating region, nestled at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, is a land of dramatic kasbahs, sprawling film studios, and breathtaking desert landscapes. Sahara Tours invites you to discover the magic of Ouarzazate and the iconic Ksar of Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has served as the backdrop for countless epic films and television series.

Our Ouarzazate and Aït Benhaddou tours offer a unique blend of history, culture, and cinematic allure. Whether you’re departing from Marrakech for a day trip or incorporating these sites into a longer Sahara desert tour, prepare to be transported to a world of ancient fortresses and starlit movie sets.

Why Explore Ouarzazate & Aït Benhaddou?

Cinematic History: Walk in the footsteps of Hollywood royalty at Atlas Film Studios and CLA Studios, where legendary movies like “Gladiator,” “Lawrence of Arabia,” and “Game of Thrones” were filmed.
UNESCO World Heritage: Marvel at the Ksar of Aït Benhaddou, an ancient fortified village showcasing stunning earthen clay architecture and offering panoramic desert views.
Gateway to the Sahara: Ouarzazate serves as a crucial starting point for adventures into the Draa Valley and the vast dunes of the Sahara Desert, including Zagora and Merzouga.
Rich Kasbah Culture: Explore impressive kasbahs like Kasbah Taourirt, offering a glimpse into the historical power and architectural ingenuity of the region.
Stunning Landscapes: The region boasts dramatic desert scenery, lush oases like Skoura and Fint, and the rugged beauty of the surrounding Atlas Mountains.

Popular Tours & Excursions in Ouarzazate & Aït Benhaddou

Discover the best of this region with our curated tours:

Experience the Magic of Ouarzazate & Aït Benhaddou

Your journey through this region promises a wealth of unique experiences:

Explore Ancient Fortifications

Wander through the narrow, winding alleys of Aït Benhaddou and imagine life in this ancient ksar.

Gateway to Sahara Adventures

Use Ouarzazate as your starting point for unforgettable camel treks and desert camping experiences in Zagora or Merzouga.

Step onto Movie Sets

Visit the Atlas Film Studios or CLA Studios and see the elaborate sets used in famous international films.

Discover Lush Oases

Find tranquility in the verdant palm groves of Skoura or the hidden Fint Oasis, offering a stark contrast to the arid surroundings.

Journey Through Dramatic Valleys

Drive through the spectacular Dadès Valley and Todra Gorge, admiring the towering rock formations and traditional kasbahs.

Planning Your Visit to Ouarzazate & Aït Benhaddou

Accessibility: Ouarzazate has an international airport and is well-connected by road to Marrakech and other major Moroccan cities.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer pleasant temperatures for exploring. Summers can be very hot.
What to Pack: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring kasbahs and uneven terrain. Bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) and layers of clothing, as temperatures can vary.
Combine with Other Destinations: Ouarzazate and Aït Benhaddou are perfectly positioned to be included in longer itineraries that cover the Sahara Desert, the Atlas Mountains, and imperial cities like Marrakech and Fes.

Ready to uncover the cinematic history and ancient wonders of Ouarzazate and Aït Benhaddou? Browse our tour offerings or contact Morocco Sahara Tours today to plan your unforgettable Moroccan journey!

Stories, tips, and guides about Morocco Travel

A desert encampment at the edge of the Sahara, tents and camels ready for adventure. Warm sunlight filters through swirling sand, casting long shadows across the dunes. In the foreground, travelers meticulously pack their gear - sturdy backpacks, canteens, and weathered exploration equipment. The middle ground features a caravan of camels, their patient expressions conveying the wisdom of the desert.

The Sahara Desert

Book Your Sahara Desert Tour Today

Are you ready for an unforgettable desert adventure? Imagine exploring the vast dunes of the Sahara. You’ll experience the rich culture and witness breathtaking sunsets. A Sahara Desert tour takes you into North Africa’s majestic heart. By booking a Sahara tour, you’ll discover hidden oases. You’ll ride camels through sandy valleys and enjoy local hospitality. […]