Ouarzazate Hidden Heritage Walking Tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the authentic heart of Ouarzazate on a guided walking tour through history, architecture, and cinema. A local guide leads you through the old medina's streets and hidden alleys, revealing traditional kasbah architecture, Berber symbols, and daily life in southern Morocco. Explore the iconic Kasbah Taourirt inside and out at your own pace. Then, enjoy a relaxing mint tea before delving into Ouarzazate's cinematic history at the Cinema Museum, and learn about its rise as the "Hollywood of Africa.
Available options
Ouarzazate Hidden Heritage Walking Tour
Ouarzazate Jewish Walking Tour
Duration: 3 hours
What's included
Entrance fee
Coffee and/or Tea
Detailed itinerary
1
Place Al-Mouahidine: This vibrant central square is the city's heart. Enjoy mint tea at a café, observe local life, and use it as a starting point to explore the town.
2
Discover the authentic heart of Ouarzazate on this guided walking tour combining history, architecture, and cinema heritage. Stroll through the old medina streets and hidden alleys as your local guide explains traditional kasbah architecture, Berber symbols, and daily life in southern Morocco. Stop at the iconic Kasbah Taourirt, with an exterior and interior at your own pace.
Enjoy a relaxing mint tea break in a local spot, then continue to the Cinema Museum, where you’ll learn how Ouarzazate became the famous Hollywood of Africa through legendary films and productions.
3
An old artisanal souk where visitors can discover unique finds, including traditional Moroccan clothes and souvenirs.
4
Discover the authentic heart of Ouarzazate on this guided walking tour combining history, architecture, and cinema heritage. Stroll through the old medina streets and hidden alleys as your local guide explains traditional kasbah architecture, Berber symbols, and daily life in southern Morocco. Stop at the iconic Kasbah Taourirt, with an exterior and interior at your own pace.
Enjoy a relaxing mint tea break in a local spot, then continue to the Cinema Museum, where you’ll learn how Ouarzazate became the famous Hollywood of Africa through legendary films and productions.
5
Discover the Jewish heritage of Ouarzazate on a meaningful walking tour through the former Mellah (Jewish Quarter), the historic synagogue, and streets once shaped by Jewish artisans and merchants. Learn about daily life, traditions, and peaceful coexistence between Jewish, Amazigh, and Muslim communities. The tour concludes at Taourirt Kasbah, offering historical context to this rich shared past, with an optional visit to a historic Jewish cemetery site.
What's not included
Walking tour excludes transportation unless travelers arrange and pay for it independently.
Available languages
Guide guide
AR
EN
FR
ES
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
we will contact travellers in advance
About Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate is a bustling Moroccan city nestled in the heart of the Sahara Desert, known for its dramatic desert landscapes, ancient kasbahs, and world-renowned film studios. This city is a gateway to the majestic desert and offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and modern film industry allure.
Top Attractions
Kasbah Taourirt
A stunning 19th-century kasbah that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. It's a testament to the traditional architecture and history of the region.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
20-50 MAD
Atlas Film Studios
One of the largest film studios in the world, known for hosting the filming of major movies and TV series. Visitors can tour the sets and learn about the film industry in Morocco.
Entertainment
1-2 hours
50-100 MAD
Fint Oasis
A beautiful oasis located about 12 km from Ouarzazate, offering lush palm groves and a serene escape from the desert heat. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing day trip.
Nature
Half day
Free to explore, but guided tours may have a fee
Ait Ben Haddou
A UNESCO World Heritage site and a fortified village (ksar) that has been used as a filming location for many Hollywood movies. It's a stunning example of traditional Moroccan architecture.
Historical/Architecture
Half day to full day
70-100 MAD
Todgha Gorge
A dramatic canyon with towering cliffs and a narrow passage, perfect for hiking and rock climbing. It's one of the most spectacular natural sites in Morocco.
Nature/Adventure
Full day
Free to explore, but guided tours may have a fee
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tajine
A slow-cooked savory stew made with meat (chicken, lamb, or beef), vegetables, and a blend of spices, cooked in a traditional clay pot.
Dinner
Can be vegetarian or vegan with variations
Couscous
A dish made from steamed semolina grains, often served with vegetables and meat, and seasoned with a variety of spices.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be vegetarian or vegan with variations
Harira
A hearty soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, and sometimes meat, often served during Ramadan.
Soup
Can be vegetarian or vegan with variations
M'semen
A type of Moroccan pancake, often served with honey or jam.
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in Todgha Gorge
Rock climbing
Camel trekking
Visiting Fint Oasis
Enjoying a traditional hammam (spa)
Sipping mint tea at a local café
Exploring Ait Ben Haddou
Visiting Atlas Film Studios
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)
These seasons offer pleasant weather for exploring the desert and historical sites without the extreme heat of summer. The scenery is also more vibrant with occasional blooms in the spring.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Arabic
- Widely spoken: French, Berber (Tamazight)
- English: Limited
Currency
Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
Time Zone
GMT+0
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Ouarzazate is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious when using taxis, and agree on the fare before starting your journey.
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less touristy areas.
- • Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded markets and bus stations.
Getting there
By air
- Ouarzazate Airport • 5 km from city center
By bus
Ouarzazate Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Public transport is limited. Buses and petit taxis (small shared taxis) are available for travel within the city and to nearby attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: There are no widely used taxi apps in Ouarzazate.
Rentals
Car, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Taourirt
Fint
Day trips
Ait Ben Haddou
30 km • Half day to full day
A UNESCO World Heritage site and a fortified village (ksar) that has been used as a filming location for many Hollywood movies. It's a stunning example of traditional Moroccan architecture.
Todgha Gorge
150 km • Full day
A dramatic canyon with towering cliffs and a narrow passage, perfect for hiking and rock climbing. It's one of the most spectacular natural sites in Morocco.
Dades Valley
160 km • Full day
A picturesque valley known for its stunning landscapes, including palm groves, rocky cliffs, and traditional Berber villages. It's a great spot for hiking and photography.
Festivals
Festival des Nomades • June
Ramadan • Date varies (Islamic calendar)
Eid al-Fitr • Date varies (Islamic calendar, following Ramadan)
Pro tips
- Hire a local guide for a more immersive and informative experience, especially when visiting historical sites and the desert.
- Carry plenty of water and sun protection, as the desert can be extremely hot and dry.
- Learn a few basic phrases in Arabic or French to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for their culture.
- Visit the souk early in the morning for the best selection and to experience the lively atmosphere.
- Book accommodations and transportation in advance, especially during peak seasons and festivals.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
