Marrakech To Ouzoud Falls – Your Complete Guide
Last Updated 21/06/2024 | 21st June, 2024
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Whether you’re a seasoned traveller seeking a new thrill or a curious new explorer, Marrakesh is an excellent idea.
It’s a beautiful, vibrant city with unique colours, flavours and customs. But there is no denying that this crazy city can become overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time in this region of the world.
A trip to Ouzoud Falls provides the perfect antidote to the chaos of Marrakesh and a beautiful opportunity to see more of what Marrakesh offers. So, here is everything you need to know before planning your day trip to Ouzoud Falls from Marrakesh.
What Are the Ouzoud Falls in Morocco?
Ouzoud Falls are one of Morocco’s most stunning natural attractions.
They are located near the village of Tanaghmeilt in the Atlas Mountains, about 150 kilometres northeast of Marrakech. These falls cascade down approximately 110 meters (360 feet) in several tiers, creating a breathtaking display of waterfalls amidst the lush greenery of the surrounding landscape.
The name “Ouzoud” is derived from the Berber word for “olive,” which is fitting as the area around the falls is dotted with olive trees. Visitors can enjoy the magical sight of the falls and explore the surrounding area, including hiking trails, viewpoints, and opportunities to see local wildlife such as Barbary macaques.
Many visitors take a day trip from Marrakech to the Ouzoud Falls, enjoying the scenic drive through the countryside.
Once there, you can take leisurely walks to viewpoints overlooking the falls, descend to the bottom for a closer look, and even take boat trips to get a unique perspective from the water.
Where to Book Your Tour
This tour was cheaper than anything in Medina, so I recommend booking online to save yourself any hassle and a few pounds!
What To Expect From an Ouzoud Falls Daytrip
The Journey to the Falls
Our bus picked us up from Jeema El-Fna around 08:30 am, but the journey to Ouzoud Falls was exceptionally long. The two-and-a-half-hour advertised journey was nowhere to be seen!
After circling Marrakesh for about 30 minutes, it took another three hours before we finally arrived at Ouzoud Falls. However, the views along the way are breathtaking, and it is an excellent way to see more of what Morocco offers.
There was a pit stop around an hour from the falls, which allowed for a toilet break and gave everyone the chance to purchase some snacks.
Arriving at The Falls
Initially, there was a little confusion, as it appears we (along with the fourteen other guests on the minibus) had only actually booked transportation, and there was no ‘tour’ included in the cost.
Although a little frustrating, we were greeted by a friendly Moroccan, our guide from the offset. I’m sure at this point, we could have refused and continued on the hike on our own. However, I really enjoyed chatting with him, and his rate of 30MAD per person for his services for the day was well worth it.
Our guide offered lots of information about the surrounding areas and was bursting with historical facts. It’s also worth noting that our guide spoke at least four languages (Arabic, French, English, and Spanish), which meant the whole group felt involved, and no one was left out—very impressive!
The Hike to The Bottom
The hike down to the bottom of the waterfall is not strenuous. It took a couple of hours but offered fantastic views, and our tour guide filled us with information about the surrounding areas and local traditions.
The area is filled with amazing nature, and two friendly wild dogs accompanied us on the hike down to the bottom of the falls. I wore trainers, but people wore everything from hiking boots to flip-flops.
I personally wouldn’t have been comfortable in flip-flops, but anything with a decent grip will be enough for the walk.
Activities At The Bottom Of Ouzoud Falls
My personal highlight of the day was arriving at the bottom of the falls. Here, you can take a raft onto the water (20 MAD per person).
Each raft seats around eight people, all carefully balanced to ensure the raft stays afloat. The men working were so friendly and fun, ensuring we all had a fantastic experience!
However, prepare to get soaked!
Many others in the group had come much more prepared than I had and immediately stripped down to bikinis and jumped straight in! I was so jealous at this point, and I would seriously recommend doing so.
Be sure to take a waterproof bag to keep all of your valuables safe, as once under the falls, everything will be drenched.
Lunch at Ouzoud Falls
Next, it was time for lunch. And, as usual on day trips like this, the food was below average in quality and above average in price.
We were shuffled into a restaurant and seated before we could say anything. In hindsight, we should have chosen another restaurant or brought our own food to enjoy. There was no menu, small portions, and the atmosphere was chaotic.
The Hike Back to the Top
After lunch it was time to start making our way back up to the top of the waterfall, walking up the opposite site. Don’t worry, the pace was fine, and it was nothing too strenuous.
The sights on the way back were equally beautiful, with the journey made even better by the conversation and jokes with our guide.
There were heaps of stalls selling trinkets, souvenirs, and snacks, but there was no pressure to buy. (Don’t expect the chaos of the Marrakech media.)
This portion of the route also lets you see the beautiful Berber monkeys. If you wish to do so, you can also purchase peanuts to feed them and pose for photographs.
I’m not going to lie; after experiencing the Monkey Forest in Ubud, Bali – there was no way I was getting close to these! Still fun to admire from a distance, though.
What to Bring With You
💦 A Towel
🎒 Waterproof bag (for on the raft)
🐛 Insect Repellant
💸 Cash (For guides, snacks, lunch, souvenirs and tips)
👙 Swimming Gear
😎 Sunscreen
Is The Ouzoud Waterfalls Trip Worth It?
In one word, yes! The Ouzoud Falls trip from Marrakesh is certainly worth it.
It is, however, a very long day trip, and therefore, if you only have a couple of days in the city, you may want to consider your priorities. But, with more than two or three days in the city, Ouzoud Falls should be on your itinerary.