Ouzoud Waterfalls Day Trip Itinerary
This full-day tour takes you from Marrakech to the Ouzoud Waterfalls, the highest in North Africa. The drive of roughly 170 kilometres follows a scenic route through olive groves and Berber villages, with a comfort stop along the way. You travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with a knowledgeable driver, so you can simply relax and enjoy the views.
- Hotel/riad pickup in Marrakech
- 2.5–3 hour scenic drive through the Atlas foothills
- Guided hike down to the waterfalls
- Boat ride to the base of the falls
- Lunch with panoramic waterfall views
The Waterfalls & the Boat Ride
At 110 metres high, Ouzoud plunges over three main tiers into the gorge below, where a permanent mist keeps the surrounding vegetation lush and green. A local guide leads you down a well-maintained path of olive trees and viewpoints, and at the base you can take a small wooden boat that glides close to the falling water — the spray is refreshing, especially in summer.
The circular walk takes a few hours at a relaxed pace, with plenty of stops for photos. Sturdy shoes make the downhill and uphill sections far more comfortable.
Barbary Macaques & Wildlife
The forests around Ouzoud are home to groups of wild Barbary macaques, which are often seen near the trails and viewpoints. They are used to visitors but remain wild animals — keep your belongings close and avoid feeding them. Watching them swing through the trees is a highlight for both children and adults.
Lunch with a View
Lunch is served at a restaurant overlooking the falls, where you can enjoy tagine, grilled meats, fresh salads and mint tea while listening to the roar of the water below. The combination of good food and one of Morocco's great natural sights makes this a meal to remember.
Best Time to Visit Ouzoud
Ouzoud is at its most powerful in spring and early summer, when the snowmelt feeds the falls. The pools are inviting for a swim between late spring and autumn. Morning departures are recommended so you can enjoy the site before the midday crowds arrive, and the light is at its best for photography.
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Swimsuit and towel if you plan to swim
- Sunscreen and a hat
- A camera for the viewpoints
- Cash in small notes for drinks and tips
History & Geography of the Falls
Ouzoud means "olives" in the Berber language, a reference to the ancient olive groves that surround the gorge and have been cultivated here for centuries. The falls are formed where the Ouzoud river tumbles over a series of limestone ledges into the El-Abid river canyon, creating a 110-metre drop across three main tiers. The constant spray has created a lush microclimate, and the red-brown cliffs contrast beautifully with the green vegetation.
The site has been a favourite of Moroccan families for generations, and in recent years it has become one of the country's most visited natural attractions. Despite its popularity, the trail network and viewpoints are well organised, so it rarely feels crowded once you are on the walk.
How to Book & What's Included
Your day trip includes round-trip transport from Marrakech in an air-conditioned vehicle, a local guide for the hike, and the boat ride at the base of the falls. Lunch can be added when you book, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure keeps your plans flexible. Confirmation is instant, with clear pickup details sent straight after booking.
Combining Ouzoud with Other Marrakech Trips
Because Ouzoud is a full day, it works best as a standalone excursion, but it pairs well with a city tour of Marrakech the day before or after. Some travellers combine it with a trip to the Ourika Valley on a separate day to experience two contrasting sides of the Atlas Mountains — the lush waterfalls of Ouzoud and the terraced gardens of Ourika. If you are short on time, the guided hike and boat ride still give you the complete experience in a single outing.
