Ourika day trips

The Ourika Valley at a glance

The road follows the Ourika river south-east out of Marrakech into the High Atlas, past terraced fields, red-earth villages and small restaurants with tables set by the water. Setti Fatma, at the end of the road, is the start of a rocky path up to a series of waterfalls. Thanks to the altitude, the valley is much cooler than the city in summer.

What you can do on an Ourika day trip

• Walk to the Setti Fatma waterfalls: the first one is about 30 to 45 minutes of scrambling over rocks, the higher ones take longer. A local guide is useful on the path.
• Visit a Berber village and a traditional house.
• Stop at the saffron garden or the Berber Ecomuseum along the road.
• Have lunch at one of the riverside restaurants.

Best time to go and practical tips

March to June brings green terraces and full rivers, and the valley is a welcome escape from the summer heat. Ourika is popular with Moroccan families at weekends. After heavy storms the river can rise quickly, so always follow local advice, and wear shoes with good grip for the waterfall path.

How to book

Our Ourika Valley small-group day trip includes a Berber village visit and an optional lunch. We also run private day trips with pickup from your riad or hotel: send us your date through our tailor-made tours page. For more background, read our Ourika Village travel guide or compare the options in Day trips from Marrakech: Ourika, Imlil, Ouzoud, Agafay or Essaouira?

Ourika Valley: quick answers

How far is the Ourika Valley from Marrakech?

About an hour by road, on a surfaced road the whole way.

Is the walk to the Setti Fatma waterfalls difficult?

It is easy to moderate. Reaching the first waterfall takes about 30 to 45 minutes over rocks, so wear proper shoes; the higher falls need more time and effort.