Ouarzazate & Aït Ben Haddou: Explore Morocco’s Cinematic South

By Nomadik Morocco – Real people, real Morocco

Introduction: Why Southern Morocco Feels Like a Movie Set

Southern Morocco is a land where warm desert winds, mint tea, and ancient Amazigh traditions blend into a landscape unlike anywhere else. Separated from the north by the High Atlas Mountains, this region is filled with dramatic gorges, palm oases, rose-filled valleys, and fortified clay villages known as ksars.

For decades, these landscapes have inspired travelers, photographers, and Hollywood filmmakers — making Ouarzazate & Aït Ben Haddou two of the most iconic destinations in Morocco.

Ouarzazate: The Hollywood of Africa

Located just a few hours from Marrakech, Ouarzazate is the heart of Morocco’s film industry. With over 60 years of international productions, the region has hosted scenes from:

• Gladiator

• Lawrence of Arabia

• Game of Thrones

• The Mummy

• Kingdom of Heaven

• Babel

• Black Hawk Down

• Alexander

Atlas Film Studios & CLA Studios

Ouarzazate is home to Atlas Studios, one of the world’s largest film studios, as well as CLA Studios, inaugurated by King Mohammed VI. Visitors can explore:

• Egyptian temples

• Tibetan monasteries

• Biblical villages

• Roman arenas

• Ancient palaces

Many of these sets still stand, making it possible to walk through scenes that once featured Russell Crowe, Brad Pitt, Gérard Depardieu, or Michael Douglas.

Aït Ben Haddou: A Living UNESCO World Heritage Site

Just outside Ouarzazate lies Aït Ben Haddou, a perfectly preserved ksar and a symbol of Morocco’s desert heritage.

Famous productions filmed here include:

• Gladiator (Maximus’s arena scenes)

• Game of Thrones (Yunkai)

• The Mummy

• Prince of Persia

• The Jewel of the Nile

  
  

The ksar’s narrow alleys, mud-brick towers, and breathtaking rooftop views make it one of the most photographed places in Morocco. At sunset, the entire village glows gold — a moment visitors never forget.

Why Filmmakers Choose Morocco

Morocco’s cinematic appeal comes from:

✔ Diverse landscapes (desert, mountains, oases)

✔ Stable weather and exceptional natural light

✔ Close proximity to Europe

✔ Experienced local crews and film-friendly infrastructure

✔ Authentic Berber architecture

Whether standing in the Sahara or wandering the paths of Aït Ben Haddou, the region feels like a natural film set.

Meet the People Behind the Films

Many residents of Aït Ben Haddou & Ouarzazate have appeared as extras in major productions. Local Amazigh families continue to open their homes to travelers, offering:

• traditional dinners

• desert tea ceremonies

• stories from film sets

• simple, authentic rural stays

  
  

This creates a travel experience that blends culture, community, and cinema.

Experience Cinematic Morocco With Nomadik Morocco

At Nomadik Morocco, we create journeys that connect travelers to the heart of Morocco. Our experiences in Ouarzazate & Aït Ben Haddou include:

• Private guided tours of film studios

• UNESCO heritage visits

• High Atlas mountain crossings

• Cultural encounters with local Amazigh families

• Sahara desert extensions (Merzouga or Zagora)

• Photography itineraries

• Tailor-made adventure or cultural circuits

  
  

More than a travel specialist, we are a platform that connects people to Morocco — its landscapes, culture, and communities.

Plan Your Journey

To explore Southern Morocco with us:

📧 info@nomadikmorocco.com 🌍 https://nomadikmorocco.com

Nomadik Morocco – Real people, real Morocco.