Hotels in Ouarzazate

Staying in Ouarzazate

Ouarzazate is the gateway to southern Morocco: a starting point for the kasbahs, the Draa and Dades valleys and, further on, the desert dunes. The town itself is calm and quickly crossed; most visitors spend one or two nights here before continuing their journey, or use it as a base for day trips. You will find hotels with pools suited to groups and families, guesthouses in restored kasbahs and a few simple establishments in the town centre.

The climate is dry, with very hot summers and cool winter nights: a pool in summer and good heating in winter make all the difference. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant times to explore the region. Ouarzazate is also known for its film studios and the Taourirt kasbah, which can be visited in half a day. If your plans are mainly about Aït Ben Haddou or the valleys, sleeping in a village nearby can be more of a change of scene than the town itself.

Where to stay in Ouarzazate

• The town centre

  Around the Taourirt kasbah and the main avenue: classic hotels, restaurants and shops within walking distance. Handy for a short stop without a car.

• Hotels with pools on the outskirts

  On the edge of town, large establishments with gardens and pools welcome groups and families. Ideal for resting after a day on the road, but plan on a vehicle to go out.

• Aït Ben Haddou and the surrounding villages

  Guesthouses and restored kasbahs facing the listed ksar. More authentic and quieter, with direct access to walks, but fewer services than in town.

• Towards the valleys (Skoura, Dades)

  Palm groves, kasbahs and guesthouses on the road east. A good option if you are heading on towards the gorges and want to shorten the next day's drive.

Good to know before you book

• Check for a pool for summer and effective heating for winter: the gap between daytime and night-time temperatures is significant.
• If you are leaving early for the desert or the valleys, ask whether breakfast can be served early or packed to take away.
• A car or a driver makes visits around the town much easier: check that the hotel has parking.

Questions about Ouarzazate

Frequently asked questions