Choosing to stay in Ouarzazate is a smart move if you’re planning a two-day adventure from Marrakech or aiming to split your journey towards the Sahara desert near Merzouga in the east. Even though its location is ideally suited for travelers, Ouarzazate doesn’t boast a wide array of luxurious accommodations based on what we’ve discovered. However, we’ve found some true gems for you. In this blog, we’re excited to share the best places to stay in Ouarzazate along with some delightful alternatives.
Booking.comEmbark on a 2-Day Road Trip from Marrakech to Ouarzazate
We believe the finest way to dive into the wonders of Ouarzazate is by embarking on a two-day road trip from Marrakech. This option frees you from the constraints of public transport or packaged tours, offering you the liberty to pause at scenic spots along your journey. Plus, you’ll traverse one of Morocco’s most scenic routes, elevating this trip to an unforgettable experience.
Start by renting a car in Marrakech and navigate through the stunning Atlas Mountains to Aït Ben Haddou. Make sure to schedule stops at the awe-inspiring kasbahs in Telouet and Tamdaght. Then, spend the night in Ouarzazate, which positions you perfectly for an early morning exploration of nearby Aït Ben Haddou. Beat the crowd and enjoy this famous clay village close to Ouarzazate in serene solitude.
Next, make your way to Ouarzazate, where you can delve into the ancient kasbah or visit the legendary film sets at the Atlas Studios. Afterwards, drive back towards Marrakech, tackling the Tizi-n-Tichka mountain pass along the way. This breathtaking route showcases some of the most dramatic landscapes you’ll encounter!
What Ouarzazate is Known for
Ouarzazate is celebrated as the Gateway to the Sahara and Morocco’s Hollywood. These nicknames perfectly capture the essence of the city’s location and its claim to fame.
Read more: 10 best things to do in Ouarzazate
Home to the globally acclaimed Atlas Film Studios, with their expansive grounds, Ouarzazate has played host to an array of films and series that whisk us away to fantastical realms. The area’s unique climate, the stunning vistas, and architectural wonders have made it a golden spot for filmmakers. A trip to Ouarzazate wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the film studios for a guided tour through the magical movie sets.
Additionally, Ouarzazate is known as the ‘Gateway to the Sahara’. It marks the spot where the road transitions from the rugged Atlas Mountains to the open expanses of the desert. Traveling from Marrakech to the Sahara inevitably brings you through Ouarzazate. From here, the journey continues to the rolling sand dunes of Erg Chebbi, inviting you to discover the desert’s vast beauty.
How Long Should You Stay in Ouarzazate?
Though Ouarzazate offers enough attractions to keep you engaged for several days, we personally find that one night here is adequate.
Morocco is filled with stunning destinations you’ll likely want to explore, necessitating some tough choices. In such cases, a single night in Ouarzazate is perfect, especially if it’s part of a road trip through the Atlas Mountains or on your way to Merzouga. This timeline allows sufficient opportunity to visit Aït Ben Haddou and one or two additional sights in and around Ouarzazate.
However, if time isn’t a constraint for you, or if you’ve already experienced much of what the rest of Morocco has to offer, then definitely slow down and soak in Ouarzazate. For a more relaxed exploration, we suggest a three-night stay, giving you at least two full days to fully appreciate all the local highlights and hidden treasures.
Discover the Best Hotels in Ouarzazate
#1 Berbère Palace shines as a beacon of luxury in the vibrant heart of Ouarzazate. This upscale hotel is a haven of relaxation, featuring an inviting outdoor pool surrounded by comfy sun loungers, a choice of four exquisite restaurants, and a tranquil spa center equipped with a hammam, sauna, and hot tub for ultimate relaxation. Guests consistently praise its warm and welcoming staff, elegant decor, chic and comfortable rooms, the inviting pool area, and its unbeatable central location.
#2 Riad Ouarzazate is a magical retreat located in the bustling center of the city. Here, you’re transported into a storybook setting adorned with classic Arabian arches, stunning mosaics, and beautiful tiled floors that captivate all who visit. It’s this attention to detail and charm that has earned this hotel rave reviews and happy guests!
#3 Oscar Hotel by Atlas Studios offers a unique experience, setting itself apart as the most distinctive place to stay in Ouarzazate. Favored by the stars and minds behind the camera, this hotel serves as a home away from home for famous directors and actors while they’re filming. Situated right beside the iconic film studios, it boasts spacious rooms themed around cinema, sleek and stylish decor, and an inviting outdoor pool, making it the premier choice for accommodation in Ouarzazate.
The Most Enchanting Hotels Near Ouarzazate
#4 Hôtel Riad Dar Daïf is highly acclaimed and stands as a beacon of hospitality near Ouarzazate. Nestled within a structure that seems lifted from a fairytale, reflective of traditional Moroccan desert castles, this hotel offers guests a serene outdoor pool with loungers, a charming patio, and lush gardens. The ultimate form of relaxation can be found in its hammam, complemented by soothing massage services.
#5 Riad Dar Rita is a beloved gem among Ouarzazate accommodations. With its generously sized rooms, welcoming patio, and authentically traditional decor, this hotel is an excellent choice for those seeking quality without breaking the bank. Praised for its genuine decor, exceptional hospitality, scrumptious breakfast, and especially its delightful terrace, it stands out in guest reviews.
#6 Dar Chamaa marries the opulence of Western luxury with the mystique of Arabian aesthetics. Located a short distance from the city, set within a mesmerizing oasis of palm trees, this gorgeous hotel offers spacious accommodations, a refreshing outdoor pool, and spectacular views of the towering Atlas Mountains.
#7 Dar Bladi, a traditional Moroccan guesthouse situated in Talmasla just beyond the outskirts of Ouarzazate, offers an authentically Moroccan stay. It’s decorated in a traditional style, providing an atmosphere that’s both genuine and inviting. The highlight is undoubtedly its magnificent terrace, adorned with Arabian motifs, offering guests stunning panoramic views of the natural surroundings.
Not far from Ouarzazate lies the famous clay village of Aït Ben Haddou. The best time for exploration is early morning, to avoid the crowds. While easy to visit from Ouarzazate, an overnight stay in Aït Ben Haddou could enhance your experience. The village is home to several exquisite kasbahs and riads that offer breathtaking views of the ancient town. Having stayed both in Ouarzazate and at Aït Ben Haddou, we found the latter provides a slightly more magical experience, making it a delightful alternative to staying in the city itself.
