Atlas Film Studios Ouarzazate
Step into the magic of cinema at Atlas Film Studios, the "Hollywood of Africa," one of the world's largest film studios.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the desert heat
Atlas Film Studios Ouarzazate
Best Time
Beat the desert heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into the magic of cinema at Atlas Film Studios, the "Hollywood of Africa," one of the world's largest film studios.
"Walking through the massive, untouched sets feels like stepping into a movie scene."
🎯 Hire a Knowledgeable Guide
A good guide makes all the difference! Look for someone passionate and experienced to truly bring the sets to life.
💧 Stay Hydrated & Sun Protected
It's the desert! Bring water, wear a hat, and use sunscreen. Tours can be exposed to the sun.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gladiator Arena Set
Main Studio Grounds
Step into the epic world of Roman gladiators. This iconic set brings the blockbuster film to life.
Game of Thrones Sets
Off-site (requires separate tour)
Explore the dramatic landscapes that served as backdrops for Westeros. A must for fans of the hit series.
Ancient Egyptian and Biblical Sets
Main Studio Grounds
Wander through meticulously crafted temples and biblical towns, transporting you to ancient times.
Medieval Castles
Main Studio Grounds
Discover imposing castles that have hosted countless historical dramas and fantasy epics.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Guided Tour in Advance
Prepare for the Desert Climate
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Hire a Knowledgeable Guide
A good guide makes all the difference! Look for someone passionate and experienced to truly bring the sets to life. +1
💧 Stay Hydrated & Sun Protected
It's the desert! Bring water, wear a hat, and use sunscreen. Tours can be exposed to the sun.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven terrain and exploring large sets. Comfort is key for a good experience.
📸 Capture Cinematic Moments
The sets are incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera or phone to snap some movie-magic shots! 
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Hire a Knowledgeable Guide
A good guide makes all the difference! Look for someone passionate and experienced to truly bring the sets to life. +1
💧 Stay Hydrated & Sun Protected
It's the desert! Bring water, wear a hat, and use sunscreen. Tours can be exposed to the sun.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven terrain and exploring large sets. Comfort is key for a good experience.
📸 Capture Cinematic Moments
The sets are incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera or phone to snap some movie-magic shots!
💰 Be Aware of Extra Fees
While the main tour has a set price, some guides might hint at additional payments. Clarify costs upfront.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise Atlas Film Studios for its unique cinematic history and impressive, large-scale sets that bring famous movies to life. The guides are frequently highlighted for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, making the experience memorable. However, some reviews mention potential issues with extra fees and inconsistent guide quality, as well as the need for better signage and information on the sets themselves.
"The Atlas Studios in Ouarzazate are among the largest and most famous film studios in the world, often referred to as the “Hollywood of the Desert.” Spread across a vast area on the edge of the city, the studios offer visitors a unique opportunity to step into the worlds of legendary movies.
Over the years, many international blockbusters have been filmed here, taking advantage of the dramatic desert landscapes and monumental sets. Famous productions include Gladiator, The Mummy, Kingdom of Heaven, Babel, and episodes of Game of Thrones. Walking through the site, one can see Egyptian temples, Roman arenas, medieval castles, and biblical towns—all carefully constructed as film sets.
The studios are open to the public with an entrance fee that grants access to guided tours around the main sets and exhibition areas. The ticket is reasonably priced, but visitors should be aware that additional “unofficial” charges may sometimes be suggested. In our case, the assigned guide was knowledgeable and entertaining, but he also hinted at an extra payment.
Visiting Atlas Studios is a memorable experience. For anyone passing through Ouarzazate, the studios are an essential stop to discover how Morocco has helped bring epic stories to life on the big screen."
Lefteris Stamatelatos
"I really don’t understand the overall low rating of this place. We just stopped by and didn’t know what to expect. It was an one hour guided tour across the filming sets of many movies. Our guide knew a lot about the sets and filming, we found out he was an actor in many movies shot here, he showed us pictures and videos from the filming and explained a lot. It is a good value for the money(8€/person), wouldn’t skip if you are in Ouarzazate"
Sona
"We decided to visit despite some negative reviews and were very glad we did. We had to wait about 30mins till the next tour. This is inside (not outside in the heat) and there was a cinema area showing trailers of films made there.
Our visit was made really interesting by our guide (Karim, I think) who obviously loved film, having studied it for years, and who had clearly got first hand experience working in the studios and having met actors and directors during this time. He spoke excellent English but also conversed in French and other languages. The tour lasted about an hour and he actively encouraged questions and made sure that he conversed with most of our group as we progressed around the different sets. I think that the guide could make or break your tour and we were very lucky to have been in the company of ours."
Nicola UK
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Atlas Film Studios is located just 5 kilometers from the entrance of Ouarzazate. You can easily reach it by taxi or by car. Many tours from Marrakech to the desert also include a stop here. +1
Yes, Atlas Film Studios is a popular stop on many day trips and multi-day tours from Marrakech or Ouarzazate, often combined with visits to Ait Benhaddou. +1
Taxis are readily available in Ouarzazate and can take you directly to the studios. If you're on a guided tour, transportation will typically be included.
Yes, driving is a convenient option. There is usually parking available at the studios.
While not as common, local buses might run in the general direction, but taxis or organized tours are generally more practical and recommended for tourists.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for a guided tour is reasonably priced, often around 8 EUR or 80 MAD per person. It's advisable to confirm the current pricing upon arrival. +1
While not always mandatory, booking a guided tour in advance or upon arrival is recommended to ensure you get a spot and a knowledgeable guide.
The standard ticket typically includes a guided tour of the main sets and exhibition areas. Some special sets, like the Game of Thrones location, may require an additional fee.
The studios are generally open daily, but hours can vary. It's best to check their official hours or inquire locally upon arrival.
Information on discounts is not widely publicized, but it's always worth asking at the ticket counter if you qualify for any special rates.
🎫 🎬 Onsite Experience
Taking a guided tour is highly recommended. The guides are often former actors or crew members and share fascinating insights into filmmaking. +1
A standard guided tour usually lasts about an hour, covering the main sets and providing historical context. +1
You'll find a variety of sets, including ancient Egyptian temples, Roman arenas, medieval castles, and biblical towns, all built for major film productions.
Yes, children often enjoy exploring the large-scale sets and imagining themselves in movie scenes. It's an engaging visual experience.
While some areas might be accessible, a guided tour is strongly encouraged to understand the context and history of the sets.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed within the accessible areas of the studios. However, always be mindful of your surroundings and any specific restrictions.
The Gladiator arena, the Egyptian temple, and the medieval castle sets offer fantastic photo opportunities. The vast desert landscape surrounding the studios also provides a dramatic backdrop.
Drone usage is typically restricted at film studios for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to check with the management before attempting to fly a drone.
Late afternoon offers softer light, creating a more dramatic and cinematic feel for your photos. Mornings can also be good before the heat intensifies.
While dedicated photography tours aren't common, a good guide can help you find the most photogenic spots and angles.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Opting for a guided tour can keep children engaged as guides often share fun facts and stories. Encourage them to point out scenes they recognize from films. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and ensure everyone has comfortable shoes for exploring the expansive grounds.
🎬 Cinephiles & Film Buffs
+2Engage with your guide to learn about the technical aspects of filmmaking and the challenges of shooting in the desert. Consider booking the separate tour for the "Game of Thrones" sets if you're a dedicated fan, as it offers a unique perspective on the show's production.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Aim for the golden hours of late afternoon for the most atmospheric shots. The textures of the sets and the vastness of the surrounding desert are best captured with good lighting. Be sure to explore different angles and compositions to create truly cinematic images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The "Hollywood of Africa"
+2The studio's vast landscape allows for the construction of monumental sets that can represent various historical periods and geographical locations. From ancient Egypt and Rome to medieval Europe and fantastical realms, Atlas Studios has provided the backdrop for countless cinematic dreams. This has significantly contributed to the growth of the film industry in the Ouarzazate region, providing employment for locals and boosting tourism.
+2Visitors can walk through these meticulously crafted sets, experiencing firsthand the scale and detail that goes into creating believable worlds on screen. It's a unique opportunity to connect with the magic of filmmaking and understand how Morocco plays a crucial role in bringing global blockbusters to life.
+1Navigating the Sets and Tours
Be prepared for a significant amount of walking, as the studio grounds are extensive. Many of the sets are outdoors, so dressing appropriately for the desert climate is essential. This includes wearing comfortable shoes, a hat, and bringing plenty of water, especially during the hotter months.
While the main tour covers a lot, some specific sets, like those used for Game of Thrones, might be located off-site and require an additional tour and fee. It's worth inquiring about these options if you're a fan of particular productions.
Behind the Scenes: Iconic Productions
+2Iconic productions filmed here include the Oscar-winning "Gladiator," the blockbuster "The Mummy," Ridley Scott's "Kingdom of Heaven," and the critically acclaimed "Babel." More recently, the studios gained widespread recognition for hosting scenes from the hugely popular HBO series "Game of Thrones."
+3Walking through these sets offers a tangible connection to cinematic history. You can stand where Russell Crowe fought, where Brendan Fraser battled mummies, or where dragons once soared. It’s a dream come true for cinephiles and a fascinating glimpse into the art of filmmaking.
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