Ouarzazate is nicknamed the 'Hollywood of the desert'. This two-day tour takes in Atlas and CLA Studios, the kasbahs that doubled for ancient Thebes and Yunkai, and the cinema museum.
Day by day
Your 2-day plan
- 1
Day 1
Atlas Studios & the Cinema Museum
Tour Atlas Film Studios, one of the largest film studios in the world by area, walking past standing sets from productions shot in the region. Cross town to the Ouarzazate Cinema Museum opposite the Taourirt Kasbah for props and behind-the-scenes history.
- Atlas Film Studios
- Standing film sets
- Ouarzazate Cinema Museum
- Taourirt Kasbah
- 2
Day 2
Aït Ben Haddou on screen & CLA Studios
Drive 30 km to Aït Ben Haddou, the ksar used in Gladiator, Lawrence of Arabia and Game of Thrones (as Yunkai). Hear which scenes were filmed where, then visit CLA Studios on the way back for more sets and backlots.
- Aït Ben Haddou film sites
- CLA Studios
- Gladiator & Game of Thrones locations
Good to know
Practical notes
- Atlas Studios is just outside Ouarzazate on the Marrakech road; CLA Studios is a few minutes further on the same side.
- Studio interiors are toured with a guide; standing sets weather quickly, so visuals change between visits.
- Aït Ben Haddou is 30 km west of Ouarzazate, an easy half-day pairing.
Frequently asked
Why is Ouarzazate called the Hollywood of the desert?
Its clear light, varied desert and mountain backdrops and large studios — Atlas and CLA — have drawn international film and TV productions for decades, with Aït Ben Haddou as a recurring location.
What films were shot around Ouarzazate?
Aït Ben Haddou and the studios have stood in for many productions, including Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, Kingdom of Heaven and Game of Thrones. Your guide will point out specific scene locations.
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