Discover Morocco’s soul on an Ourika Valley day trip from Marrakech. Explore Berber culture, hike waterfalls, and savor riverside meals.
Discover Morocco’s soul on an Ourika Valley day trip from Marrakech. Explore Berber culture, hike waterfalls, and savor riverside meals.
- Ourika Valley - Did you know that the Ourika Valley welcomes over 500,000 visitors each year? A day trip from Marrakech to the Ourika Valley offers a delightful mix of adventure, culture, and culinary delights. Journey through the High Atlas Mountains to discover hidden waterfalls, Berber villages, and enjoy riverside dining. This guide provides a…
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Ourika Valley - Did you know that the Ourika Valley welcomes over 500,000 visitors each year? A day trip from Marrakech to the Ourika Valley offers a delightful mix of adventure, culture, and culinary delights. Journey through the High Atlas Mountains to discover hidden waterfalls, Berber villages, and enjoy riverside dining. This guide provides a 7-hour itinerary filled with activities, including hiking to Setti Fatma’s cascades and enjoying a traditional Berber lunch by the river.
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Ourika Valley - Hour 1: Departure from Marrakech
9:00 AM: Begin your journey with a pick-up from your Marrakech hotel/riad in a private air-conditioned minivan.
Drive Time: Enjoy a 1-hour scenic drive through olive groves and the High Atlas Mountains.
Hour 2–3: Setti Fatma Waterfalls Adventure
10:00 AM–11:30 AM: Embark on a trek to the 7-tiered waterfalls of Setti Fatma.
Hike: Spend 1–1.5 hours (moderate difficulty) exploring lush valleys.
Swim: Take an optional dip in natural pools (summer only).
Local Tip: Consider hiring a mule (€5–€10) for part of the hike to conserve energy. -
Ourika Valley - Hour 4: Berber House Visit & Cultural Immersion
11:30 AM–12:15 PM: Visit a traditional Amazigh (Berber) home.
Tea Ceremony: Enjoy mint tea while learning about Berber traditions.
Pottery Workshop: Observe artisans crafting handmade ceramics.
Hour 5: Argan Oil Cooperative Tour
12:15 PM–1:00 PM: Tour a women-led argan oil cooperative.
Learn: Discover how argan oil is cold-pressed (a UNESCO-listed practice).
Shop: Purchase organic oil, amlou (Moroccan nutella), and cosmetics. -
Ourika Valley - Hour 6: Gourmet Berber Lunch by the River
1:00 PM–2:00 PM: Indulge in a 3-course riverside lunch.
Menu:
Soup + fresh salad.
Tagine (lamb, chicken, or vegetarian) or couscous.
Seasonal fruit + unlimited mint tea.
Vegan/Vegetarian Options: Available upon request.
Hour 7: Return to Marrakech
2:00 PM–3:00 PM: Relax on the drive back to Marrakech, passing through Eghbali village.

- Private transportation
- Lunch
- Drinks: Bottled water + mint tea by the river.
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Round-trip transfers from Marrakech (AC minivan/SUV with English-speaking driver).
- Guided hikes to waterfalls and Berber villages.
- Private transportation
- Lunch
- Drinks: Bottled water + mint tea by the river.
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Round-trip transfers from Marrakech (AC minivan/SUV with English-speaking driver).
- Guided hikes to waterfalls and Berber villages.
- Tips
- Tips
The Ourika Valley offers more than just a day trip—it’s a gateway to the heart of Morocco. With 90% of visitors describing the experience as “unforgettable,” it’s clear why this journey is a favorite. Local guide Ahmed El-Khatib notes: “The combination of mountain views, cultural experiences, and riverside dining creates a unique magic.”
What to…
The Ourika Valley offers more than just a day trip—it’s a gateway to the heart of Morocco. With 90% of visitors describing the experience as “unforgettable,” it’s clear why this journey is a favorite. Local guide Ahmed El-Khatib notes: “The combination of mountain views, cultural experiences, and riverside dining creates a unique magic.”
What to Expect on Your Adventure
The adventure starts with a picturesque drive from Marrakech through olive groves and palm oases into the High Atlas Mountains. Key highlights include:
- Eghbali Village: Visit a Berber home, enjoy mint tea, and discover Amazigh traditions.
- Argan Oil Cooperatives: Observe women producing organic argan oil—a practice recognized by UNESCO.
- Setti Fatma Waterfalls: Embark on a 60–90 minute hike to the 7-tier waterfall (perfect for a swim in summer!).
The Highlight of the Trip: Berber Lunch by the River
After the hike, enjoy a traditional lunch served in a riverside setting. The menu includes:
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.