Ouarzazate Province lies in southern Morocco, and it is often described as the gateway to the Sahara Desert. Travellers heading deeper into the south frequently pass through it, but the province rewards a stop of its own, with dramatic landscapes that change quickly as you move from the High Atlas foothills toward the desert.
What to expect
The scenery is the main draw. Wide, open plains, rugged rock formations and the stark colours of the desert edge give the province a cinematic quality, and it is no accident that the area has become a major centre for film production. Visitors interested in how films are made, or who simply enjoy seeing a landscape that has appeared on screen many times, will find it a distinctive place to explore.
Why visit
- Dramatic desert and mountain landscapes close to one another
- A base for trips toward the Sahara Desert
- A strong film production tradition, giving the area a unique character
- A relaxed pace, well suited to travellers on a longer journey through southern Morocco
Because the province is large and its attractions are spread out, it suits visitors who plan a few days rather than a brief stop. Those travelling by road will appreciate the sense of space and the way the landscape opens up around them. Anyone drawn to desert scenery, or curious about the region's role in the film world, will find Ouarzazate Province a worthwhile place to include in an itinerary.
