Nestled in the Draa Valley, next to the Atlas Mountains , is a city called Ouarzazate, which translates into Berber as “without noise”.

This small city has had quite the history in recent times, including serving as a French garrison, administration center and customposts, as well as serving as location in the films Lawrence of Arabia, Cleopatra, Gladiator and Kingdom of Heaven, to name just a few.

For anyone who visits Morocco and is looking to have a truly unique experience against the backdrop of the Atlas mountains , this is the place to be.

What To Do

There are many things to do in this excellent little city. One of the best things to check out is Ait Ben Haddou, which is one of the best preserved Kasbahs in all of Morocco . Usually a taxi can take you out there for 300 dirham’s and the driver will stick around for a few hours. At this location, several movies have been shot, including Gladiator, There is a river there, so be careful you do not get to wet when you cross it.

Another great place to visit is the central square behind Mohammad V in Quarzazate. This square is best at night when everyone comes out to enjoy it. See a true Morocco as children play football in the square, while others socialize. It is an excellent way to get the feel of a community.

One thing that must be done if you are considering a trip to Quarzazate is an expedition to Merzouga, M’Hamid and the Dunes of Erg Chebbi. This trip will require you to spend a night in the Sahara Desert , which is a truly amazing experience. Since Ouarzazate is the last town in the south of Morocco to offer decent agencies in its area, you should be able to find someone to give you the correct kind of tour that will not only match your price range, but not give you the run around. Visiting these places can also be done by renting a car and navigating your own way through the area, creating a real sense of adventure.

Who To Hire

When you are in the city, there will be several tour vendors who will be able to give you excellent tours of the area. If you are a hiker, a tour of the Atlas Mountains is in store, while film buffs may enjoy the many different tours that take individuals on to the areas where some of the greatest films in cinema history have been shot.

As is true with anywhere you go, make sure that the tour operators are government certified. With a shady tour operator you are never in physical danger, but you may get the run around in terms of price and where you go.

Where to Stay

If you wan to stay in the lap of luxury while you are in Ouarzazate, then there is only one place to stay and that is the Hotel Berbere Palace. This stunning hotel features 232 rooms, duplexes and suites, three restaurants, two bars, a sauna, hamman and Jacuzzi, swimming pool, three tennis courts, a mini-football field, a solarium, a piano bar, as well as a library and hairdressing salon.

All the suites and rooms in the hotel feature air-condition, international telephone lines, satellite television, mini-bars and a private terrace that will allow you to look out at the majesty of the Atlas Mountains as you enjoy your stay in one of the most beautiful cities, and countries, on Earth.

The three restaurants in the hotel cater to three different kinds of cuisines. The Oasis Restaurant serves international foods, while the Maison Arabe serves Moroccan delicacies that will delight the senses and dazzle the tastebuds. The Restaurant Ifri, which sits by the swimming pool, is a relaxing place to enjoy the sun and the water, while you sample some of the best food around.

The hotel will also organize parties for you and others in the hotel outside the building, in Berber tents, complete with entertainment and wonderful food.

Conclusion

One of the coolest cities in all of Morocco is the film haven of Ouarzazate. This city, nestled in the south, has served as the location of many movies, as well as a place where individuals who want to get away from the hectic pace of Fez or Marrakesh , come to relax and enjoy a quieter setting.

Complete with historical attractions, the awesome Atlas Mountains , dominating Sahara Desert and culture that is evident throughout the city, this place is a truly magical oasis in Morocco .

If you are planning a trip to Morocco , and want to go somewhere that has a slower pace of life, where you can see many Moroccans live as they have for centuries, then Ouarzazate is the place to go.

While you are there, don’t forget to try the many tours, check out the city and meet the amazing residents who call this truly unique city home.

You will not be disappointed.