Overview
This day trip takes you from Marrakech to Ourika Valley in the High Atlas Mountains. You’ll visit Berber villages, hike to waterfalls, and enjoy mountain scenery, all within a comfortable day trip from the city.
Duration: Full day (approximately 8-9 hours)
Itinerary
Morning: Marrakech to Ourika Valley
Depart from your accommodation in Marrakech in the morning. The drive to Ourika Valley takes about 1.5 hours through the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains.
As you leave the city, the landscape changes from urban areas to agricultural land, then to mountain terrain. The valley is known for its green terraced fields, fruit orchards, and traditional Berber architecture.
Midday: Exploring Ourika Valley
Berber Villages: Stop at one or more traditional villages along the valley. These settlements have been here for centuries, built using local stone and clay. You can walk through narrow streets and see daily life in the mountains.
Setti Fatma: Continue to Setti Fatma, the main village in the valley and starting point for the waterfall hike. The village sits at the end of the valley road where the mountains become steeper.
Afternoon: Waterfall Hike
The Hike: A local guide (optional, paid separately) can take you up to the waterfalls. The trail follows the river upstream through rocky terrain. There are seven waterfalls in total, though most visitors hike to the first two or three.
The first waterfall is about 30-40 minutes from the village. The path includes some uneven steps and stream crossings. The second and third waterfalls require more climbing but offer better views.
At the Waterfalls: Take time to rest by the water, have lunch at a riverside cafe, or simply enjoy the natural surroundings. The area is cooler than Marrakech, especially near the water.
Late Afternoon: Return to Marrakech
Begin the return journey to Marrakech in the late afternoon. Arrive back at your accommodation by early evening.
What’s Included
- Private round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
- Private driver for the day
- Pickup and drop-off at your Marrakech accommodation
- Flexible timing and stops along the route
What’s Not Included
- Meals and drinks (cafes and restaurants available in the valley)
- Local hiking guide at the waterfalls (optional, typically 5-10 EUR)
- Personal expenses and tips
Good to Know
Best time to visit: Spring (March-May) when water flow is strong and wildflowers bloom. Summer offers warm weather but waterfalls may have less water. Winter can be cold with possible snow in higher areas.
What to bring: Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip, water bottle, sunscreen, hat, and cash for lunch and guide tips. The trail can be slippery near the water.
Physical level: Moderate. The hike involves uphill walking on uneven terrain. You can choose how far to hike based on your fitness level.
Lunch options: Several restaurants and cafes in Setti Fatma serve traditional Moroccan food, including tagine and grilled meat. Many have riverside terraces.
Valley culture: Ourika Valley is home to Berber communities who speak Tamazight and maintain traditional mountain lifestyles. The valley is also known for producing argan oil and medicinal plants.
Here are the prices for our transportation services for this trip. The prices listed are per vehicle, not per person.
Book Your Ourika Day Trip
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