Marrakech to Ouzoud Falls: Day Trip with Boat Ride & Pickup

Summary

Ouzoud waterfalls day trip from Marrakech with boat ride and monkeys

You’ll start your day leaving Marrakech behind for Ouzoud Falls with hotel pickup included. Walk down red cliffs with a local guide, watch wild monkeys play nearby and feel cool mist from North Africa’s tallest waterfall. Cross by boat for close-up views and relax over lunch before heading back — it’s an experience that lingers long after you return.

What’s the experience like?

We were already bouncing along the road out of Marrakech before I’d properly woken up, squinting at the light over the olive groves. Our driver had that quiet confidence — you know when someone’s done this route a hundred times? He pointed out villages tucked into the hills as we wound through the Tadla plains. There was a quick coffee stop where I tried to order in French (not my best moment). Then back on the road, windows cracked open, that mix of dust and green in the air.

Arriving at Ouzoud Falls felt like stepping into another world — red cliffs, olive trees everywhere, and this constant roar from somewhere below. Our local guide met us at the top; he grinned when he saw how wide-eyed we were. The path down was steeper than I expected, but he stopped often, pointing out wild macaques darting between branches (one nearly stole my snack). The falls themselves… well, I’ll just say I got soaked by the mist before even reaching the bottom. There’s this rainbow that hangs in the spray — not always there, but we caught it for a second.

We hopped onto one of those little boats to cross under the falls — it’s not fancy but somehow perfect. The water smelled faintly metallic and cold drops hit my face. Lunch was in a simple place overlooking everything; olives on the table tasted sharper than any I’ve had at home. People around us lingered over mint tea and nobody seemed rushed. Climbing back up after all that felt longer than coming down (my legs still remember), but honestly, I keep thinking about how alive it all felt — monkeys chattering, sunlight flickering through leaves, just this whole messy beautiful scene.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Day trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls

• Pickup from hotel or riad
• Drive 2 hours north of Marrakech
• Coffee break and restroom stop
• Continue 45 minutes through Atlas Mountains
• Trek from top to bottom of falls
• Observe wild monkeys and red cliffs
• Boat ride at bottom of cascade
• Lunch at restaurant near falls
• Climb stairs to exit valley
• Return drive to Marrakech
• Drop off at hotel or riad

Top questions

How far is Ouzoud Falls from Marrakech?

Ouzoud Falls is about 93 miles (150 km) north of Marrakech.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

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

Do you see monkeys at Ouzoud Falls?

Yes, wild macaque monkeys live in the area and are often seen along the paths.

Is there a boat ride during the tour?

Yes, you’ll cross under the falls by local boat as part of the experience.

How long does it take to get to Ouzoud Falls?

The drive takes about 2 hours plus a short break for coffee and toilets.

Is lunch included in the price?

No, lunch is at your own expense at restaurants near the falls.

Are guides provided at Ouzoud Falls?

A local guide will lead you along the paths from top to bottom of the falls.

What should I bring for this trip?

Comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, water and maybe snacks.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off from your Marrakech hotel or riad in an air-conditioned vehicle. A local guide leads you along Ouzoud Falls’ trails; you’ll also get to cross beneath the cascades by boat before returning to Marrakech together in late afternoon.