Famous Film Locations in Morocco: Top Spots to Explore
Morocco has been the backdrop for numerous iconic cinematic works, including blockbuster films and acclaimed TV series. Maybe it was "Game of Thrones" that put Morocco on the map for more people, or perhaps other film works have added to the romantic and mysterious allure of this "Garden of North Africa."
If you are a movie enthusiast, you will definitely be interested in our film-inspired destinations and must-dos. Join us as we travel through time and explore the traces of movies made in Morocco, uncovering the magic of Morocco in movies during your journey.
Film-Inspired Destinations
Casablanca
When it comes to movies made in Morocco, "Casablanca" is the first that comes to mind. Likewise, when planning a trip to Morocco, Casablanca is often either the first or last stop for many travelers. The iconic film, starring Ingrid Bergman and Humphrey Bogart, is set during World War II and tells a captivating tale of espionage and romance at Rick's Café. The exotic charm of Morocco adds to the allure of this epic love story, making a visit to Casablanca a must for those seeking romance and adventure.
Casablanca, often referred to simply as "Casa," was transformed into a sprawling modern metropolis during Morocco's time as a French protectorate. It is the country's largest city, located along the Atlantic coast with evergreen trees and a pleasant climate. From the sea, the city presents a stunning view of endless blue sky and ocean, with a jagged white skyline in between. Its extensive sandy beaches, stretching for miles, offer some of the best natural swimming spots.
Yet, the city retains elements of Morocco's traditional character, with modern marvels like the grand Hassan II Mosque, a testament to its glorious past. The legendary film and its theme song have left an everlasting mark on the city, forever linking it to timeless romance.
Best Time for Casablanca: March to June, September to November. Mild weather is ideal for walking tours and enjoying the seaside.
Hassan II Mosque
Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate, with its stunning desert landscapes, has served as a filming location for several iconic movies. Among them is "Lawrence of Arabia (1962)", starring Peter O'Toole and Omar Sharif, which tells the gripping story of a British officer leading the Arabs in a revolt against the Turkish invasion. The film's captivating narrative earned it seven Academy Awards and solidified its status as a landmark in cinema. Another famous movie shot here is "Gladiator (2000)", featuring Russell Crowe as General Maximus, who goes from a loyal servant of the empire to a gladiator seeking revenge. The success of these films has put Ouarzazate on the map as a world-renowned movie destination.
Famously known as "The Hollywood of Morocco," Ouarzazate is a filmmaker's dream, thanks to its diverse landscapes that include deserts, rocky expanses, and snow-capped mountains. While its traditional mud-architecture make it the perfect stand-in for ancient civilizations. The directors couldn't put it down and willing to traveled all the way here to shoot the spectacular scenes.
Best Time for Ouarzazate: March to May, when the weather is mild and you can fully experience Ouarzazate's cinematic charm.
Ouarzazate
Ait Ben Haddou
With over 20 films and productions shot at Ait Ben Haddou, this historic site is a must-visit for any movie enthusiast vacationing in Morocco. Classic ones are mentioned as before as "Gladiator" and "Lawrence of Arabia". Another movie "The Mummy" shot here was a successful blockbuster from the 1990s. This American adventure film tells the story of a group of explorers in the 1920s who accidentally bring a 3,000-year-old mummy back to life.
Ait-Ben-Haddou, located in the southeastern Atlas Mountains of Morocco near Ouarzazate, is an 11th-century fortified village that once guarded a key trade route through the Sahara. The most striking feature here is its architecture: traditional Berber mud-brick houses built along the hillside, with woven willow roofs and defensive walls that follow the terrain. Over time, these layers of structures have formed a massive fortress complex that resembles a pyramid at a distance, yet feels like a labyrinth inside - a truly breathtaking sight. Though once abandoned, the village gained new life as a favorite backdrop for art-house films. Today, Ait-Ben-Haddou still has Berber families living within its walls, crafting handmade carpets, pottery, and jewelry for a living.
Best Time for Ait-Ben-Haddou: March to May, October to November, avoiding summer as the heat can exceed 38 ℃.
Rabat
"Mission: Impossible - Rouge Nation" made the Kasbah of the Udayas in Rabat famous, thanks to Tom Cruise's thrilling motorcycle chase scene filmed there. The iconic scene, where he speeds down the castle's steps and launches the bike into the sea, captures the rugged beauty of Rabat's winding roads and desert landscapes. This dramatic North African backdrop adds authenticity and heightens the tension, enhancing the film's global espionage atmosphere.
Rabat is the capital city of Morocco, sits along the Atlantic Ocean and is one of the country's four imperial cities, along with Fez, Marrakech, and Meknes. Here, you can visit famous landmarks like the Royal Palace, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the Kasbah of the Udayas, and the ruins of Chellah. Chellah was originally abandoned in the 5th century, and what you see today are the remnants from a 13th-century reconstruction, later damaged by the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. Besides historical sites, the capital also has several museums worth exploring, such as the Museum of Art, the Archaeological Museum, and the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art.
Best Time for Rabat: April to September, ideal for exploring its historical sites and coastal areas.
Mausoleum of Mohammed V
Tangier
Tangier was one of the most exotic filming locations for "Inception", where Cobb (Leonardo's character) tracks down Tom Hardy's character, Eames, the "best forger in the business." The shoot took place during Tangier's scorching summer, and the intense heat posed quite a challenge for the crew. One of the film's chase scenes, where Cobb makes a daring escape, was shot in the narrow streets and alleys of a local open-air market.
Tangier, known as the "Gateway to the Mediterranean," is a historic port city in northern Morocco, strategically located at the entrance of the Mediterranean Sea. The famous Strait of Gibraltar, often mentioned in geography books, lies right here. From the city's beautiful beaches, you can catch a direct view of Spain across the sea. In addition to its natural scenery, Tangier offers several must-visit attractions, including the Kasbah Lighthouse, Mendoubia Gardens, the former Sultan's Palace, the Jewish Synagogue Museum, and the Old American Legation. If you are a fan of street art, don't miss Asilah, a nearby town where graffiti artists from around the world transform every wall into a delightful surprise.
Best Time for Tangier: April to June, September to October, warm but not hot weather, perfect for enjoying the Mediterranean coastline and the city sights.
Tangier
Marrakech
As mentioned earlier, movies like "Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation", "Inception", "Lawrence of Arabia", and "The Mummy" all feature scenes filmed in Marrakech. Other films, such as "Men in Black", "Yves Saint Laurent", Sherlock Holmes, and "Sex and the City 2", have also used the city's captivating locations as their backdrop.
Marrakech, one of Morocco's historic capitals, is a captivating oasis nestled between the snow-capped peaks of the High Atlas Mountains to the east and the vast Sahara Desert to the south. In ancient times, camel caravans crossing the Sahara would arrive in Marrakech and feel as if they'd reached paradise, earning the city its nickname as the "happiest city that never sleeps." Marrakech acts like a magnet, drawing in massive caravans from the south, who saw it as the most beautiful city they’d ever encountered. Today, Marrakech continues to enchant countless travelers, who come to explore its medieval legends and mysteries. The city's heat, dust, and adobe fortresses make it a truly unique Moroccan gem in Africa.
Best Time for Marrakech: March to May, October to November, moderate temperatures for sightseeing in the medina.
Film-Inspired Must-Dos
Visit Ouarzazate's Film Studios
Don't miss a guided tour of Atlas Studios, where you'll walk through elaborate sets that still stand from major films.
Atlas Studios is the first film studio in North Africa, and one of the largest film studios in the world. It offers a chance to explore iconic movie sets and immerse yourselves in the world of cinema. Beyond touring the sets, you can enjoy live performances showcasing Saharan traditions, making it an ideal place to relive memorable film moments and experience the unique desert atmosphere.
Explore Ait Ben Haddou's Unesco Site
Venture into Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its earthen architecture and striking hilltop location. The kasbah has been used in "Gladiator", "The Mummy", and "Game of Thrones".
This centuries-old ksar, a traditional pre-Saharan village, has been the backdrop for numerous iconic films, giving you a sense of stepping into history. Climb to the top, you'll get stunning panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscapes, which is perfect for photographs. And you can easily arrange a day trip from Ouarzazate.
Ride Camels Through the Sahara
Like in "Prince of Persia", you can experience the magic of the Sahara on a camel trek that transports you across sweeping sand dunes. As the rhythmic movement of the camel takes you deep into the desert, endless golden sands and dunes unfolds, creating a timeless sense of adventure. A guided trek allows you to learn more about the nomadic traditions and desert ecology, offering a glimpse into life in this vast wilderness.
Take Walking Tours of Marrakech
Immerse yourself in the bustling streets and colorful souks of Marrakech with a walking tour to see its film-worthy alleys and palaces.
Explore the labyrinthine medina, where each twist and turn reveals a new sight, from ancient palaces and mosques to lively marketplaces filled with artisan crafts. Don't miss the opportunity to stop at iconic landmarks like the Koutoubia Mosque and the Bahia Palace, experiencing the blend of past and present in one of Morocco's most captivating cities.
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From ancient kasbahs to endless sand dunes, Morocco provides an immersive experience for both film lovers and travelers. With an experienced guide, you'll gain deeper insights into the country's rich history and cinematic landscapes. Just contact us via [email protected] to start planning your tour. Step into the iconic movie settings and let Odynovo accompanied to unfold Morocco's magic before your eyes.
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