Marrakech to Ourika Valley: Berber Villages & Waterfalls Day Trip

Summary

Atlas foothills, Berber villages, mint tea breaks & mountain streams

You’ll ride from Marrakech into the green heart of Ourika Valley with a local guide, sharing mint tea in a Berber home before hiking through mountain villages to Setti Fatma waterfalls. Expect cool air, laughter along riverbanks, and time that feels slower than usual.

What’s the experience like?

I’d heard about the Ourika Valley before — mostly from people escaping Marrakech’s heat — but I didn’t expect how quickly everything would shift after leaving the city. The road out was already quieter, and then suddenly there were fields, orchards, and that first glimpse of the Atlas Mountains. Our driver, Youssef, kept pointing out things I’d have missed: a crumbling old mosque by the roadside, kids waving from under walnut trees. At one point he slowed down so we could watch women washing carpets in the river — their laughter echoing over the water. I still think about that sound.

We stopped at a Berber home for mint tea. There was this gentle hush inside, broken only by the clink of glasses and someone’s grandmother shuffling around in slippers. The tea was hot and sweet — almost too sweet for me but apparently that’s how it should be here — and I tried (and failed) to pronounce “shukran” right. Our host just grinned and poured another glass anyway. Outside, you could smell wild herbs in the garden and see all these little villages clinging to hillsides. It felt like time moved slower up there.

The hike up to Setti Fatma waterfalls wasn’t too tough but I did slip once on some wet stones (my shoes are still muddy). There were moments when we’d stop just to catch our breath or watch dragonflies dart over the water. A local guide led us up, showing us where to step and telling stories about rock art on Jebel Yagour — honestly I only caught half of what he said because I was distracted by how cold the spray felt on my face at the top. The view down into the valley is something that sort of stays with you after you leave, even if you don’t realize it right away.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Ourika Valley and Waterfalls

• Pick up from Marrakech accommodation
• Travel to Ourika Valley in Atlas Mountains
• Visit Berber villages and orchards
• Browse plain of Haouz towards Aghmat village
• Continue to Ighref, start hike to Jebel Yagour
• Admire panoramic views of Berber villages
• Enjoy mint tea in local herb garden
• Relax and enjoy valley views

Top questions

How long does it take to get from Marrakech to Ourika Valley?

It typically takes about an hour by car from Marrakech to reach Ourika Valley.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, pickup from your accommodation in Marrakech is included.

Do I need special hiking gear for Setti Fatma waterfalls?

No special gear is needed but comfortable walking shoes are recommended as some stones can be slippery.

Will we visit a traditional Berber village?

Yes, you’ll stop at a Berber home for tea and pass through several small villages along the way.

Is lunch included during this tour?

No lunch is mentioned as included; only tea is specifically listed as part of the experience.

Are English-speaking guides available?

Yes, your driver speaks English (as well as Italian).

Is this day trip suitable for children?

The tour offers specialized infant seats but requires at least moderate physical fitness due to hiking sections.

What’s special about Setti Fatma waterfalls?

The Setti Fatma waterfalls are known for their cool cascades and scenic views over the valley’s villages and streams.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from your Marrakech accommodation in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English or Italian-speaking driver; you’ll share traditional mint tea in a Berber home before hiking toward Setti Fatma waterfalls in the Atlas Mountains.