Marrakech: Ourika Valley Waterfalls Day Trip & Berber Lunch

Summary

Atlas peaks, Berber villages, riverside lunch and gentle hikes

You’ll swap Marrakech’s bustle for Atlas Mountain quiet on this day trip—meeting Berber locals over mint tea, visiting a women’s argan cooperative, hiking to Setti Fatma waterfalls with your guide, and sharing lunch by the river. Expect laughter, fresh mountain air, and small moments that stay with you long after you’re back in town.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really know what to expect from a day trip to the Ourika Valley out of Marrakech — maybe just some pretty views, a break from the city noise. But as soon as our driver steered us into those first red hills, I felt this weird mix of excitement and calm. The light was different out there, softer somehow. Our guide, Youssef, chatted with us about his childhood in one of these mountain villages — he pointed out olive groves his uncle still works. It’s funny how quickly you leave behind the chaos for something quieter.

We stopped at a women’s argan oil cooperative where the smell was nutty and earthy — I tried grinding some kernels but mostly just made everyone laugh (my technique needs work). The women were patient, explaining each step in French and Arabic with Youssef translating bits for us. There was this sense of pride in their hands, even when they teased each other. After that we wandered through Setti Fatma village; kids waved from rooftops and an old man nodded at us from his stoop. The air had this sharp clean edge — mountain air is no joke.

The hike up to the Setti Fatma waterfalls wasn’t too tough, though I did slip once on a wet stone (no harm done except my dignity). You hear the water before you see it — first just a hush, then louder until you’re right beside these cold clear cascades. Some folks dipped their toes in but I just sat on a rock and let the spray cool my face. Lunch by the river after that felt earned; tagine bubbling away while we watched local families picnic nearby. I still think about that view sometimes — sunlight flickering off the water, bread warm in my hands.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ourika Valley and Atlas Mountains Tour

• Drive from Marrakech to Ourika Valley
• Enjoy scenic views of hills and villages
• Explore authentic Berber villages with guide
• Visit women's argan oil cooperative
• Hike to Setti Fatma waterfalls
• Optional lunch by the river
• Experience local crafts and hospitality
• Return drive to Marrakech

Top questions

How far is Ourika Valley from Marrakech?

It’s about 60 km from Marrakech to Ourika Valley—roughly 1 to 1.5 hours by car depending on traffic.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

Lunch is optional and not included in the tour price; your guide will recommend riverside restaurants where you can buy traditional Moroccan food.

What should I wear for hiking to Setti Fatma waterfalls?

Wear comfortable walking shoes with good grip—the path can be slippery near the falls—and bring layers for changing weather.

Will we visit any Berber villages?

Yes, you’ll stop in traditional Berber villages along the way and meet locals during your visit.

Is hotel pickup included from Marrakech?

Yes, hotel or riad pickup and drop-off in Marrakech are included with your booking.

Can children join this tour?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels; infants must sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

Do guides speak English or French?

Your local guide and driver are fluent in English, French, and Arabic.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this day trip to Ourika Valley.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel or riad pickup and drop-off in Marrakech, a scenic drive through Atlas Mountain foothills with a fully licensed local driver-guide fluent in English, French and Arabic, guided visits to Berber villages including a stop at a women’s argan oil cooperative (with plenty of mint tea), plus a gentle hike up to Setti Fatma waterfalls—with time for an optional riverside lunch before heading back to town.