Tucked away in the heart of Morocco’s Atlas Mountains lies a natural wonder that many travelers still overlook: the Ouzoud Falls. While Marrakech often steals the spotlight with its vibrant souks and historic charm, a day trip to these spectacular waterfalls offers an entirely different kind of magic – one filled with breathtaking scenery, cultural insights, and refreshing mountain air.
A Scenic Escape from the City
Located about 2.5 to 3 hours northeast of Marrakech, the journey to Ouzoud takes you through Morocco’s diverse landscapes – from olive groves and rolling hills to traditional Berber villages. We booked a fully guided tour via GetYourGuide for just 27 € per person, and it turned out to be the perfect choice to get the most out of the experience without worrying about logistics.
A Day Full of Nature, Culture & Discovery
Our tour started with a guided hike around the falls, giving us unique perspectives of the cascading water from above, below, and all the scenic in-betweens. Our local guide not only knew the trails by heart but also shared fascinating stories and facts about the region’s history, geology, and wildlife.
We even had a chance to visit a nearby Berber village, where we were welcomed with a glass of traditional mint tea and invited to learn a few basic Arabic and Berber phrases – a fun and enriching cultural exchange. One of the highlights was learning about argan oil production from local women, who showed us how the precious oil is traditionally extracted by hand – a slow, skilled process passed down through generations.
Morocco’s Tallest Waterfalls
Standing at an impressive 110 meters, the Ouzoud Falls are the tallest waterfalls in North Africa. The name “Ouzoud” comes from the Berber word for “olive”, and you’ll quickly see why – olive trees line the paths and offer shaded spots along the way.
At the base of the falls, we boarded a small, rustic boat that took us up close to the crashing water – a refreshing and slightly wild experience that made the power of the falls feel even more real. Prepare to get a little wet – and smile the whole way through.
Monkeys, Tagine & Mountain Air
The area around the falls is home to a playful group of Barbary macaques, who aren’t shy around visitors (especially if snacks are involved). However, we strongly advise not accepting any food to feed the monkeys. Some locals may try to scam you by taking a picture of you feeding the monkeys and then demanding money for the photo. It’s also important to never feed chocolate to the monkeys – it can be fatal for them. So, enjoy the monkeys from a distance, and don’t fall for the tricks!
After exploring the trails, we grabbed a delicious local tagine at a small cliffside restaurant with stunning views over the gorge – an unforgettable lunch spot.
When to Visit & Final Thoughts
We visited in February when the temperature was a comfortable 23°C with sunshine, making it perfect for a hike. Summer, however, can be extremely hot, so plan accordingly if you’re going during the warmer months.
If you’re looking to escape the bustle of Marrakech and dive into something more natural and authentic, Ouzoud Falls is a must-see. Thanks to our guided tour via GetYourGuide, we didn’t just see the waterfalls – we experienced the culture, people, and stories that make this place so special.
Pro tip: If time allows, consider staying overnight in one of the nearby guesthouses to catch the falls at sunrise or enjoy the peace once the day visitors head back.
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