Atlas Film Studio: Tour the Famous Film Sets

Atlas Film Studio, located in Ouarzazate, Morocco, is the largest film studio in the world by land area. It spans over 20 hectares and has been a key filming location for many famous movies and television series. Nicknamed the "Hollywood of the Desert," the studio offers visitors the chance to explore famous film sets and experience the magic of the movies up close. The vast desert landscapes, historical architecture, and ancient-looking sets have made it a favorite for filmmakers producing epic historical dramas and action-adventure films.

Visitor Fee

• Entry Fee: Approximately 80-100 MAD per person for a guided tour of the studio.
• Guided Tours: The entry fee includes a tour guide who takes you around the studio, explaining the different sets and movies filmed there. Private tours may cost extra, depending on group size and special arrangements.

Transportation

• By Car: Atlas Film Studio is easily accessible by car, located about 10 minutes from the city of Ouarzazate. The studio is approximately 200 km (about 4 hours) from Marrakech, making it a popular stop on road trips to the Sahara Desert or during a visit to southern Morocco.
• By Bus/Taxi: Buses run regularly from Marrakech and other cities to Ouarzazate, where you can take a short taxi ride to the studio.
• Tours: Many guided tours of Ouarzazate and surrounding areas include a visit to Atlas Film Studio as part of the itinerary.

Things to Do

• Explore Famous Film Sets: Wander through impressive film sets that have been used in blockbuster movies and TV series. From ancient temples to desert fortresses, the sets have been built to resemble real historical and fantasy locations.
• Recognize Iconic Movie Props: See various movie props, costumes, and even large-scale models used in famous scenes. Some sets are remarkably well-preserved, allowing visitors to imagine themselves in the films.
• Visit the Gladiator Arena: One of the most popular attractions at Atlas Studio is the Roman-style arena that was used in "Gladiator" (2000). You can walk through the gates and stand in the same space where Russell Crowe’s character fought in the movie.
• The Kingdom of Heaven Set: Explore the large medieval fortifications and structures built for "Kingdom of Heaven" (2005), Ridley Scott’s epic about the Crusades.
• Game of Thrones Experience: Some areas of the studio were used for filming scenes of the hit series "Game of Thrones," especially those set in desert landscapes.
• Take Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides offer fascinating behind-the-scenes stories of the productions filmed at the studio, sharing how movie magic is brought to life in the desert.
• Photography: The expansive desert backdrop and elaborate film sets make Atlas Film Studio a dream location for photography enthusiasts.

Why People Enjoy Visiting Atlas Film Studio

Visitors love Atlas Film Studio for its unique combination of movie history and the incredible desert landscape. It allows movie fans to step into the world of some of their favorite films and TV shows while also getting a glimpse into the world of filmmaking. The studio offers an otherworldly experience, transporting people to ancient times, futuristic realms, and far-flung fantasy worlds. For cinephiles and adventurers alike, it's a fascinating look at the intersection of Hollywood and Morocco’s natural beauty.

How Old is Atlas Film Studio?

Atlas Film Studio was founded in 1983, and since then, it has been a prominent filming location for numerous international films and series. Ouarzazate itself, often referred to as the "Door to the Desert," has been used as a film location since the 1960s.

List of Famous Films and Series Shot at Atlas Film Studio

• "Gladiator" (2000) – The Roman-style gladiator arena was built for the epic scenes.
• "Kingdom of Heaven" (2005) – Filmed extensively in the studio’s medieval sets.
• "The Mummy" (1999) – Several Egyptian-themed sets were used.
• "Babel" (2006) – Some of the desert scenes were filmed here.
• "Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra" (2002) – The studio was transformed into ancient Egypt for this popular French movie.
• "Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time" (2010) – This action-adventure film used various desert and ancient city sets.
• "The Man Who Would Be King" (1975) – One of the earlier films shot in the Ouarzazate region.
• "Lawrence of Arabia" (1962) – The landscapes around the studio were featured in this iconic film.
• "Game of Thrones" (2011-2019) – Some desert scenes were shot in the surrounding areas and at the studio.

List of Activities

• Explore Famous Movie Sets: Visit sets from films like "Gladiator," "Kingdom of Heaven," and more.
• Guided Tours: Learn about the history of the studio and behind-the-scenes stories of the productions filmed there.
• Photography: Capture the striking scenery of the desert and the intricate film sets.
• Movie Memorabilia: See iconic props, costumes, and models used in famous films.
• The Gladiator Arena: Walk through the Roman-style arena where key scenes from "Gladiator" were filmed.
• Kingdom of Heaven Fort: Explore the massive medieval fort built for Ridley Scott's historical epic.

Additional Nearby Attractions

• Aït Ben Haddou: Just 30 minutes away from Atlas Film Studio, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is another famous filming location, used in movies like "Gladiator" and "The Mummy."
• Ouarzazate: Known as the "Gateway to the Desert," Ouarzazate itself is worth exploring, with its kasbahs and local markets.
• Fint Oasis: A hidden gem near Ouarzazate, Fint Oasis is a peaceful palm-filled oasis surrounded by desert hills.
• Skoura: A palm oasis with stunning kasbahs, located about an hour from Ouarzazate.

Atlas Film Studio offers a captivating glimpse into the world of filmmaking, set against the stunning landscapes of Morocco’s desert. With its famous movie sets and rich cinematic history, it’s a must-visit for both film buffs and travelers looking for a unique experience.