GoT Morocco: Game of Thrones filming locations in Morocco

Photo: Valley of the Roses in Morocco.

Game of Thrones has taken the world by surprise, captivating audiences with its intricate plot lines, political intrigue, and epic battle scenes. What many fans may not know is that a significant part of the series was filmed in Morocco, a country known for its rich history and diverse landscapes.

One of the most famous locations in Morocco used in Game of Thrones is the Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah, placed near the town of Ouarzazate. This ancient fortress, made entirely of mud and straw, has been used as a backdrop for countless films and television shows, including “Lawrence of Arabia”, “Gladiator”, and of course, “Game of Thrones”.

Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah was used as the setting for Yunkai, the slave city that Daenerys Targaryen liberates in season three. Fans of the series can visit the kasbah and walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters while admiring the intricate architecture and stunning views.

For those who are wondering where in Morocco was Game of Thrones filmed or want to see as many Game of Thrones filming locations in Morocco as possible, there are several multi-day tours available. One such tour is the Marrakech Ait Ben Haddou tour, where you can go from Marrakech to the Ouarzazate film studios, and several other Game of Thrones filming locations, including the Atlas Mountains and the Red City of Marrakech.

Ouarzazate is a city located in southern Morocco, known for its vast desert landscape and ancient kasbahs. Home to the largest film studios in Morocco, Ouarzazate has hosted numerous international film productions, including GoT. The studio has been used to create sets for various locations in the show, including King’s Landing, Astapor, and Essos.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the studios to see sets from the show, such as the city of Meereen and the throne room of Daenerys. The studios are open to the public year-round, and it is a must-visit destination for any Game of Thrones fan. Besides, it holds a museum that showcases costumes, weapons, and other memorabilia from the series.

For those who want to see more of Morocco’s beautiful landscapes, there are several day trips from Ouarzazate that are perfect for Game of Thrones fans. One such excursion is a trip to the Valley of the Roses, which was used as the setting for the Dothraki Sea in season one. Visitors can also explore the nearby Draa Valley, which was used as the backdrop for scenes set in the city of Astapor.

Another popular destination for Game of Thrones fans is Essaouira, a charming coastal town located about 200 kilometers west of Marrakech. Essaouira was used as the setting for Astapor, the slave city where Daenerys acquires the Unsullied army. The town’s ancient walls and ramparts were also used to depict the Free City of Pentos. Fans can take a guided tour of Essaouira to see the filming locations, as well as explore the town’s colorful souks and picturesque harbor.

From Essaouira, you can head towards Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city and home to the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Although Casablanca was not used as a filming location for Game of Thrones, it is a popular destination for tourists and a must-visit for anyone traveling to Morocco.

Ait Ben Haddou is a fortified city located in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, about 30 kilometers away from Ouarzazate. The city’s stunning kasbah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been used as a filming location for numerous movies and TV shows, including GoT. The kasbah’s unique architecture and historical significance made it the perfect location for the city of Yunkai, which was ruled by the Wise Masters in the series.

GoT fans can take a Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou tour and explore the winding alleys and intricate structures of the kasbah. Travelers can also learn about the city’s history and the traditional way of life in the region.

Essaouira is a coastal city located in western Morocco, known for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and ancient fortifications. The city’s stunning harbor and ramparts have been used as a filming location for several scenes in GoT, including the city of Astapor, where Daenerys freed the Unsullied army.

Fans can visit Essaouira and explore the city’s winding alleys, bustling markets, and historic landmarks, including the Skala de la Ville, a 1760s-era seafront fortress, and the picturesque Moulay Hassan square. Also, visitors can enjoy the city’s vibrant music scene, which has inspired several musicians and artists over the years.

Besides its Game of Thrones fame, Essaouira is also a popular tourist destination, with a rich history, and a bustling port. The city’s unique blend of Moroccan and European influences make it a fascinating place to explore, with plenty of historic landmarks, artisan markets, and delicious cuisine to discover.

For those fans who want to explore more of Morocco’s fascinating culture and history, a trip from Essaouira to Casablanca is a great option.

An Essaouira to Casablanca excursion is a great way to explore two beautiful cities in Morocco. Essaouira is a charming coastal town, while Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco and the economic center of the country.

The journey from Essaouira to Casablanca takes approximately 4 hours by car or bus. Along the way, you will pass through beautiful landscapes including rolling hills, lush forests, and quaint villages.

Visitors can explore the historic medina, shop for unique souvenirs, and enjoy fresh seafood at the harbor. Moreover, the city’s strong winds make it a popular spot for kite and windsurfing.

On the other hand, Casablanca is a bustling metropolis with a mix of modern and traditional architecture. It is home to several iconic landmarks such as the Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Morocco. Other must-see attractions include the Old Medina, the Corniche, and the Mohammed V Square.

If you’re short on time, but still want to experience the magic of GoT filming locations in Morocco, a day trip from Marrakech to Ouarzazate is a perfect option. The excursion takes visitors on a journey through the Atlas Mountains and into the desert landscape of southern Morocco.

During the trip, you can explore the ancient kasbahs of Ait Ben Haddou and Taourirt, visit the Ouarzazate Film Studios, and see the stunning desert scenery that served as the backdrop for many GoT scenes. The trip may also include stops at local markets and villages, where you can experience the traditional way of life in the region.