Plizio Visual Lab

Bou Azzer Cobalt Mine

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

Weather…

The Bou Azzer mine, located in the Anti-Atlas mountains, is one of the most unique mining sites in the world as it is the only mine where cobalt is extracted as a primary product rather than a byproduct of copper or nickel mining. The deposit consists of high-grade skutterudite ore and is operated by the Compagnie de Tifnout Tiranimine (CTT), a subsidiary of the Managem Group. Modern exploitation began in 1928 after the deposits were discovered due to their striking surface outcroppings. Cobalt from Bou Azzer is highly valued on the global market for its purity and ethical production standards, particularly for the manufacturing of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles. The mine includes several underground production areas and an on-site processing plant that refines the ore into high-quality concentrates. Situated in a barren desert landscape, Bou Azzer is a major regional employer and supports the development of surrounding villages through infrastructure projects. The mine exemplifies Morocco's role as a critical supplier of raw materials for the global green energy transition.

Location: Morocco
Nearby: Ouarzazate (56 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	9	11	15	19	23	28	32	31	26	20	14	10
Rain mm	6	9	14	6	7	3	3	5	14	12	14	7

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Bou Azzer cobalt mine is one of the rare primary cobalt mines in the world, crucial for global battery production. It supplies critical raw materials to the industry for electric vehicles and electronics.

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Visiting

The mine itself is not open to the public as it is an active mining operation. However, the facilities can be viewed from a distance from the surrounding hills.

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Where to view it

A good viewpoint is located on the road between Bou Azzer and Ouarzazate, from which the mine buildings can be seen. A nearby hill to the east also gives a panoramic view of the entire area.

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Local products

In the region, small shops offer traditional handicrafts such as Berber carpets and pottery. Local markets also feature dried fruits and nuts as seasonal specialties.

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Active season

The mining operation runs year-round, with extraction typically continuous. Seasonal fluctuations are minimal, as mining takes place underground independent of weather.

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Nearby

A visit to the mine can be combined with the city of Ouarzazate, known as the gateway to the desert. The Draa Valley and the kasbahs of Aït Benhaddou are also worthwhile destinations in the area.