Ouarzazate : Film Studios, Aït Ben Haddou & Fint Oasis Tour

Ouarzazate: Film Studios, Aït Ben Haddou & Fint Oasis Tour offers a fascinating blend of Hollywood charm, ancient architecture, and peaceful desert landscapes. This guided day trip takes you through Morocco’s iconic film industry, historic fortress towns, and lush oases, promising a well-rounded experience that combines culture, nature, and cinematic magic.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to walk behind the scenes at Ouarzazate’s film studios, often called the “Hollywood of the Desert,” where blockbuster movies like Game of Thrones have been shot. Second, the visit to Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that looks straight out of a fairytale with its red clay walls and winding alleyways. Third, the opportunity to relax in a traditional riad for lunch, complete with a pool and delicious Moroccan cuisine.

However, one consideration is that the tour covers a fair amount of ground in one day, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a full, active itinerary and don’t mind a long day of sightseeing. This experience is perfect for travelers wanting a mix of pop culture, history, and nature without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions independently.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Day Trip: Combines film studio visits, historic sites, and natural oasis in one well-planned itinerary.
• Authentic Experiences: Walk through ancient ksar Aït Ben Haddou and meet local Berber communities in Fint Oasis.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights and local stories.
• Value for Money: For $153, you get a full day of diverse sightseeing plus a traditional Moroccan meal.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes transportation, entry fees, and a leisurely lunch, making it a hassle-free adventure.
• Suitable for Many: Ideal for those interested in culture, history, film, or seeking a scenic escape from city life.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Ouarzazate’s Film Studios

Your day begins with a visit to Ouarzazate Film Studios, often called Morocco’s Hollywood. Here, you’ll stroll through sets used for major international productions, including Game of Thrones. The guides typically highlight famous filming locations, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how these elaborate scenes come together. Visitors have remarked on how the guides’ familiarity with the set history adds depth to the experience.

This stop isn’t just for movie buffs; it’s about understanding the scope and scale of film-making in a desert environment that offers both cinematic appeal and accessibility. You’ll feel like a star walking through the various soundstages and outdoor sets that have hosted everything from desert battles to medieval villages.

A key point is how this stop sets the tone for the day: combining modern storytelling with historic landscapes. It’s a reminder of how Morocco has become a favored location for filmmakers, thanks to its striking scenery and versatile architecture.

The Charm of Aït Ben Haddou

Next, the tour takes you to Aït Ben Haddou, an ancient ksar perched on a hillside overlooking a dry riverbed. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a highlight for its stunning architecture and preserved earthen buildings. Walking through its narrow alleyways and ramparts, you’ll get a real sense of how traditional Saharan towns were constructed for defense and community life.

Visitors often comment on the dramatic views from the top of the ksar, overlooking the surrounding valley. The red clay structures contrast beautifully against the blue sky, offering fantastic photo opportunities. Your guide will provide context about its history, and you might hear stories of how locals still live within these walls, maintaining traditions that have persisted for centuries.

The visit to Aït Ben Haddou isn’t just about the visuals; it’s about stepping into a living historical site that has served as a backdrop for many films and remains a vital part of Moroccan heritage.

A Moroccan Lunch in a Riad

After exploring Aït Ben Haddou, the tour includes a traditional Moroccan lunch at a charming riad. This is more than just a meal; it’s a chance to relax and soak in the authentic atmosphere. The riad often features a courtyard with a pool, allowing guests to cool off after a morning of sightseeing.

The menu typically offers a range of Moroccan dishes, with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options available on request—something that travelers with dietary restrictions will appreciate. Many reviewers highlight the quality of the food and the friendly service, often noting that the peaceful setting enhances the dining experience.

Towels are provided if you want to take a quick dip in the pool, making this stop a restful break before continuing with the day’s adventures.

The Kasbah of Tifoultoute

Post-lunch, your journey takes a quieter turn with a visit to the Kasbah of Tifoultoute. Once the residence of the influential Pacha Glaoui, this kasbah offers a less crowded, more atmospheric glimpse into Morocco’s aristocratic past.

From its walls, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding palm groves and mountains. Some reviews mention how the tranquility of this site allows for thoughtful exploration and picture-perfect moments. The guide’s insights about the kasbah’s history add depth, making this stop both educational and scenic.

This site provides a peaceful contrast to the busier Aït Ben Haddou, revealing a different facet of Moroccan architectural and cultural history.

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Discovering Fint Oasis

The final highlight is the Fint Oasis, a lush, green valley nestled between rugged mountain ranges. It’s a stark contrast to the arid desert landscape that surrounds it. As you walk along the river and through small Berber villages, you’ll notice terraced gardens and date palms thriving here, thanks to water sources from the mountains.

Travelers describe Fint Oasis as a “peaceful retreat,” where meeting local families and observing daily life offers a genuine connection to Moroccan rural culture. The scenery is both serene and photogenic, with vibrant greenery against the rocky backdrop. It’s a perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Many reviewers appreciate that the oasis offers a different, more intimate perspective of Morocco—one rooted in traditional ways of life that remain largely unchanged.

Practical Details & What to Expect

The tour is organized and paced to ensure you see the main highlights without feeling rushed. The transportation is usually comfortable, with group sizes that foster a friendly vibe but still allow for personalized attention from guides. The entire trip runs for around a day, making it a suitable option for travelers with limited time or those who prefer a structured itinerary.

Entry to the film studios, Aït Ben Haddou, Tifoultoute Kasbah, and Fint Oasis are all included, saving you the hassle of extra costs. The lunch in a riad with access to the pool adds value, especially considering the quality of the food and tranquility of the setting.

You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces and bring sunscreen, a hat, camera, and water to stay comfortable and capture every moment. The tour is conducted in English, French, and Spanish, accommodating many travelers.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Take This Tour?

This tour is ideal for culture and history enthusiasts who enjoy learning about local architecture and heritage. Film lovers will appreciate the behind-the-scenes access at Ouarzazate studios, while nature lovers will be captivated by the lush Fint Oasis. It’s perfect for those who want a balanced day of sightseeing, with enough variety to keep things interesting from start to finish.

Travelers who appreciate guide insights and well-paced excursions will find this trip particularly rewarding. The value lies in the combination of multiple stops, a quality lunch, and the convenience of organized transport—all for a reasonable price.

However, those seeking a very relaxed, leisure-focused day might find the schedule a bit full, but overall, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s cinematic and cultural landscape.

FAQ

• What is included in the tour? The tour includes visits to Ouarzazate Film Studios, Aït Ben Haddou, Tifoultoute Kasbah, and Fint Oasis, plus a traditional lunch in a riad with pool access.

• How much does the tour cost? The price is $153 per person, which covers most entry fees, transportation, and lunch.

• Is the tour suitable for kids? While not explicitly stated, the itinerary’s mix of walking and sightseeing makes it suitable for most ages, provided children are comfortable with a full day.

• What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended to stay comfortable during the day.

• Are dietary restrictions accommodated? Yes, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options are available upon request.

• How long is the tour? It’s a full-day trip, typically lasting around 8 hours.

• Can I cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.

• Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes transportation from and to your accommodation or designated meeting point.

• What languages are the guides available in? Guides speak French, English, and Spanish.

• Are pets allowed? Pets are not permitted on the tour.

This Ouarzazate tour offers a compelling mix of cinematic history, ancient architecture, and stunning natural scenery. Whether you’re a film buff, history lover, or simply seeking a scenic escape, it provides a well-rounded day out that balances learning, exploration, and relaxation.

You can check availability for your dates here: