Ouarzazate, the gateway to the Sahara at the foot of the High Atlas, is a peaceful Moroccan town with cinematic kasbahs and sweeping desert views. When it comes to hotels, you’ll find everything from boutique riads tucked inside the old kasbah to family-friendly stays with pools perfect for cooling off. Luxury seekers should head toward the desert edge for stylish resorts, while budget travellers will feel right at home near the bustling town centre.

With the Sahara stretching out on one side and the High Atlas rising on the other, this oasis town can set you up with everything from camel rides to motorbike tours or guided treks. The town itself has changed a lot in recent years—what was once a bustling livestock market and later a dusty French garrison is now centred around a broad, welcoming pedestrian plaza. It’s also earned fame as Morocco’s “Hollywood of the Desert.” Ouarzazate has doubled as Ancient Rome, Egypt, and even Westeros in Game of Thrones. A visit to Atlas Studios gives you a peek behind the scenes of epics like Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia. Beyond the town, highlights include the stunning kasbah of Ait Benhaddou, the lush Dades Valley leading into the dramatic Todra Gorge, and the chance to spend a night under the stars at M’Hamid—the last outpost before the endless Sahara. It’s a place where history, cinema, and adventure all meet in one unforgettable stop.

The Best Places To Stay in Ouarzazate

For desert luxury

• Dar Ahlam is a traditional Kasbah, transformed into a luxury retreat. Sumptuous suites and private villas provide the comfortable sleeping arrangements, while the hammam and giant pool will help bring you back to life after time in the desert. Undoubtedly one of the best places to stay in Ouarzazate.
• Set in a wonderfully remote location between the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert, Sawadi offers traditional rooms oozing rustic charm - complete with warm pink walls, fireplaces and woven rugs. Plus, there's even a spa and an organic restaurant at this laid back spot.

For a peaceful retreat

• Jardins de Skoura- Nestled in the Atlas foothills, this converted Berber home blends simple elegance with soulful charm. Relax in peaceful lounges, savour home-cooked meals, and soak up mountain views. A true hideaway where warm hospitality meets tranquil beauty.

For a holiday villa

• If you've decided that you'd like the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, booking.com.

Travel Information

• You're probably best off visiting Ouarzazate in the shoulder-season months, from April to May or September to November, when the weather's a comfortable 15-25°C. The summer months are blisteringly hot which makes daily sightseeing a bit of a challenge.
• Another popular option is visiting around Christmas, though this is usually a pretty busy time so expect a number of fellow tourists and to pay more for accommodation.
• International visitors can fly into Ouarzazate Airport, located just 2km outside the city centre. You can take a taxi to the airport for around 50 dirhams per person (£10), or instead prebook a shuttle service.
• There are unfortunately no direct flights from the UK to Ouarzazate, most require at least one changeover - usually at Casablanca Airport. The journey time is anywhere from 6 hours 30 mins plus.
• For car hire prices, we recommend you visit our online partner Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

• Check out our list of the best places to stay in the High Atlas,
• Expand your search to include all our recommendations for the best places to stay in Morocco,
• Or, contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.