Marrakech to Ouzoud Falls: Day Trip with Boat & Pickup

Summary

Ouzoud waterfalls day trip from Marrakech with local guide and boat ride

You’ll follow winding paths down to Ouzoud Falls with a local guide from Marrakech, feel cool spray on a boat ride close to the cascades, spot playful Barbary apes in olive trees, and enjoy lunch overlooking rushing water. It’s a day that leaves you feeling both exhilarated and quietly changed by Morocco’s wild side.

What’s the experience like?

“Don’t slip!” That’s what our guide Youssef called out as we picked our way down the red earth path toward Ouzoud Falls — I was already clutching my water bottle like it might save me. The sound of the water got louder with every step, kind of like distant applause. There were kids chasing each other near the olive trees, and this old man selling oranges who smiled but didn’t push us to buy. I liked that. The air smelled a bit like wet stone mixed with wood smoke from someone grilling lunch nearby.

I’d seen photos of the Ouzoud waterfalls before, but standing there — 110 meters of water crashing down — it felt different. Maybe it was the spray on my face or the way the light caught in all that green around us. Youssef pointed out some Barbary apes up in the branches (one tried to steal a woman’s sandwich, which made everyone laugh). We took the little boat right up close to the falls; I got soaked and honestly didn’t care. My shoes were muddy anyway.

Lunch was tagine on a terrace above the river — not fancy, just good, and I kept watching doves swoop through the mist while we ate. There were these tiny mills by the top of the falls that Youssef explained had been there for ages. He told stories about his childhood here; I think that’s what stuck with me most. On the drive back to Marrakech, I kept replaying that moment on the boat in my head — how small you feel next to all that noise and water, but also kind of awake in a way you forget sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Ouzoud Waterfalls from Marrakech

• Depart from Marrakech
• Travel to Ouzoud Waterfalls
• Explore waterfalls and surroundings
• Enjoy boat ride at waterfalls
• Optional swim or hike cascades
• Have lunch with waterfall view
• Walk to top of falls
• Return to Marrakech

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Marrakech to Ouzoud Falls?

The full-day trip usually lasts around 10 hours including travel time from Marrakech.

Is hotel pickup included for this Ouzoud waterfalls tour?

Yes, round-trip transfers from Marrakech are included with your booking.

Can you swim at Ouzoud waterfalls during this tour?

Swimming is optional if conditions allow; check with your guide on arrival.

Are meals included on this day trip?

No meals are included by default, but there are plenty of places to buy lunch overlooking the falls.

Is there a local guide during the Ouzoud waterfalls tour?

A local guide is included if you select that option when booking.

How far are Ouzoud Falls from Marrakech?

The falls are about 150 km (around 3 hours’ drive) northeast of Marrakech.

What wildlife can you see at Ouzoud waterfalls?

You might spot Barbary apes and various birds around the area.

Is there an option for a boat ride at Ouzoud Falls?

A short boat ride near the base of the falls is available if you choose that option when booking.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle from Marrakech, guidance from a local expert if selected, and an optional boat ride right up close to Ouzoud Falls — leaving plenty of time for exploring or relaxing by the river before heading back home.