A refreshing escape into Morocco’s natural beauty, Ouzoud Waterfalls make an unforgettable day trip from Marrakesh. We share our full itinerary, tips, what to wear and how to get there — plus the scenic highlights you won’t want to miss.

Overview

Tucked away in the Atlas Mountains, the Ouzoud Waterfalls offer one of the most refreshing escapes from Marrakesh. They are the tallest waterfalls in Morocco, reaching an impressive 110 metres at their highest point and flowing all year round, which makes them a reliable highlight regardless of the season.

Many travellers, ourselves included, treat the journey as a day trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls from Marrakesh, not only because it’s close enough for a full-day adventure, but because the landscape genuinely feels like a world away from the city’s energy.

The name “Ouzoud” comes from the Amazigh word for “olive,” a nod to the vast groves that surround the waterfalls. As you descend into the valley, the contrast between the lush greenery, red cliffs, and cascading water quickly explains why visiting this natural wonder has become such a beloved excursion.

Best Time to Visit Ouzoud Waterfalls

Ouzoud can be visited throughout the year since the falls never dry up. That said, spring and autumn tend to offer the best balance of comfortable temperatures and scenic conditions.

Summer can be very hot, especially during the midday climb, while winter brings cooler air and a bit more mist near the base of the falls. If you’re planning an Ouzoud waterfalls day trip itinerary, we’d suggest mornings for the soft light and quieter trails.

How to Get to Ouzoud Waterfalls

Reaching Ouzoud Falls from Marrakesh is straightforward, but choosing the right method makes a big difference to your day.

Using an Organised Tour

After experiencing Moroccan traffic firsthand, we’d say a guided tour is the most relaxed option. You avoid the stress of navigation, parking, and unpredictable local driving habits.

Tours typically include hotel pick-up, a guide, and sometimes even lunch and the boat ride. For many travellers wondering how to visit Ouzoud Waterfalls, this is the simplest and most comfortable way.

We went on an organised tour to Ouzoud Waterfaills from Marrakesh which was very affordable and included return transport, guided hike, boat ride and lunch.

How to Visit Ouzoud Waterfalls Without a Car

It’s entirely possible to visit Ouzoud Waterfalls without a car. You can catch a bus or shared taxi to Azilal and continue onward with a local taxi, although timetables can be elusive and transfers unpredictable. If you’re short on time or prefer a smoother day, a tour remains the easier approach.

How Far Is Ouzoud Waterfalls from Marrakesh?

Many travellers look up how far is Ouzoud Waterfalls from Marrakesh, and the answer is roughly 150 km. The journey usually takes around 2.5 to 3 hours each way depending on traffic and road conditions.

Our Ouzoud Waterfalls Day Trip Itinerary

We booked this Full-Day Ouzoud Waterfalls Guided Hike with Boat Ride via Headout and would highlighy recommend it. Below is our full experience to help you plan the perfect Ouzoud waterfalls day trip itinerary.

Morning Pick-up in Marrakesh

Our day began at 8:15 am in Mellah Square, only a few minutes from our riad. We were greeted by one of the agency owners, who kept in touch via WhatsApp to coordinate our pick-up. After a short ride, we transferred to the main van that would take us to the falls.

Drive Out of the City & Coffee Stop

About an hour outside Marrakesh, we stopped for a short break. As tends to be the case with roadside stops, the prices were aimed at tourists, but if you walk three minutes further down the road you’ll find coffee at half the price.

Entering the Valley & First Monkey Encounter

Upon arrival we met our guide, Brahim, who explained the plan for the day. Warm, knowledgeable, and patient, he set the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable hike.

As soon as we stepped into the valley, we were greeted by playful monkeys eager for treats. Brahim had a few ready, and before long we had monkeys climbing onto us for a quick nibble – fun, surreal, and surprisingly gentle.

Olive Tree Plantation Walk

Our hike began through olive plantations. Brahim explained that “Ouzoud” means “olive,” highlighting the significance of these groves. Many olives here are pressed for oil rather than eaten due to their small size.

He also pointed out markings on the trees used to distinguish family ownership, and how marriages sometimes link these families through shared trees.

Argan Oil Cooperative Visit

We reached a small Amazigh shop where locals demonstrated how argan oil is made and its benefits to the skin and hair. It was reminiscent of our time in the village of Ping’An in China, where women use fermented rice water on their hair. While we didn’t buy anything, the demonstration was insightful.

First Viewpoint of the Falls

Continuing downhill, we stopped at a breathtaking viewpoint offering a full panorama of the waterfalls. This is where the scale and beauty of Ouzoud truly hit us.

It reminded us of our trip to Niagara Falls and our first reaction when we saw the beautiful falls.

Boat Experience Under the Waterfall

Our tour included a boat ride, so we boarded one of the colourful, decorated rafts. Simple but charming, each boat is rowed entirely by one very strong man.

The raft takes you right up to the spot where the water crashes into the basin, providing an invigorating spray. A waterproof jacket is useful here, especially in the colder months.

If you decide to go on your own or with transport only, the boat trip is only 20 MAD per person and you can buy your ticket on the spot.

Cliff Jumpers & Bridge Viewpoint

From the bridge, we watched local kids competing for attention (and tips) as they prepared to cliff-jump. It’s a lively scene, full of movement.

Tea Break with Views

After the boat ride, we climbed up to a terrace filled with restaurants. Although our lunch was scheduled elsewhere, we stopped for mint tea overlooking the falls. At 20 MAD, it was pricier than usual, but the view made it worthwhile.

Climb Up and Stunning Views

The climb back up from the falls was steep and a little tiring, but we found it surprisingly rewarding. Partway up, a small sign pointed towards a viewpoint, so we followed it—and we’re glad we did.

The detour opened up beautiful views over the Ouzoud Waterfalls and the gorge below, a mix of greens, cliffs, and cascading water.

Final Monkey Spot

Further along, we encountered another group of monkeys. For a small donation, locals offered peas so we could feed them – a fun end to the walk.

This was actually an amazing view point as well and in one photo you can see the monkeys and the waterfalls in the background. Trully memorable experience.

Lunch at Chez Mounir

By the time we reached Chez Mounir, it was around 3pm and we were ready for a good meal. The owner greeted us in flawless Spanish, French, English, and Italian.

Our set menu included appetisers, salads, chicken skewers and couscous for Hristina, and a beautifully spiced lamb tagine with dried fruits for me. We finished with pastries and tea – an excellent lunch overall.

Lunch was included in our trip but if you don’t have lunch in your package, you should expect to pay around 130 MAD per person for a set menu.

Journey Back to Marrakesh

After lunch our driver collected us and we began the journey back. The ride gave us time to rest and reflect on a memorable day. We stopped again at the same spot for halfway for a quick break.

Would We Recommend This Tour?

Absolutely. It struck a great balance of activity, relaxation, and insight. Our guide was attentive, the schedule felt well paced, and the variety of scenery and experiences made the trip feel rich and rewarding.

Tours typically come in three formats:

• Transport only
• Transport + Boat + Guided hike
• Transport + Boat + Lunch + Guided hike

What to Wear to Ouzoud Waterfalls

The terrain varies from olive groves to rocky paths, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. Because you’ll get close to the water, especially if you include the boat ride, pack a light waterproof jacket.

Layers work well here as temperatures can shift quickly between shaded valleys and open viewpoints. Sunglasses, sun cream, and a bottle of water also come in handy.

Tips for Your Ouzoud Waterfalls Day Trip

• Bring some small change. Snacks, tea stops, and local products are available along the way.
• Expect monkeys. They’re friendly but cheeky, so secure your belongings.
• Take a dry bag if you’re carrying your phone or camera.
• Walking sticks are optional but useful during the steeper sections.
• Don’t rush the viewpoints; they’re some of the most rewarding parts of the trail.

Staying Connected on Your Ouzoud Day Trip with Saily eSIM

We relied on Saily for our Ouzoud Waterfalls day trip and found it useful from start to finish. Since everything is set up in their app, it removed the hassle of looking for a local SIM before our morning pick-up.

Signal held up very well even as we left Marrakesh and made our way into the mountains. It meant we could keep in touch with our tour organiser on WhatsApp without worrying about coverage.

If you’re planning an Ouzoud day trip and want a simple way to stay connected throughout the journey, Saily does the job nicely.

FAQ About Ouzoud Waterfalls

Final Thoughts

Our day at Ouzoud Waterfalls offered everything we love about Morocco – dramatic landscapes, warm people, and unexpected stories woven into every step. If you’re thinking about planning a day trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls from Marrakesh, we’d say go for it.

It’s a journey that leaves you energised, content, and a little more connected to the country’s natural beauty.