Ouarzazate serves as a perfect base for exploring the southern oases and kasbahs. A visit here offers a mix of cultural history at the Kasbah and cinematic wonder at the studios. It represents the transition point where the mountains truly give way to the pre-Saharan plains, setting the stage for the deep desert adventures that lie ahead.

The Dades Valley is a spectacular gorge carved by the Dades River, winding its way through the arid landscape between the High Atlas and Jebel Saghro mountains. Known as the "Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs," the route is lined with ancient, crumbling fortresses that once guarded this fertile corridor. The contrast between the lush green fields of the valley floor and the red and mauve rock formations above creates a landscape of stunning beauty.