Marrakech to Ouzoud Waterfalls: Day Trip & Boat Ride

Summary

Ouzoud Falls day trip from Marrakech with boat ride, monkeys, lunch views

You’ll hear Ouzoud’s roar before you see it—then wander trails with monkeys darting past your feet and taste fresh orange juice by the path. With a local guide leading you from Marrakech, you’ll cross the basin by boat and share lunch overlooking Morocco’s tallest falls. It’s not just scenery—it’s a day you’ll feel long after you’ve left.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed wasn’t the waterfalls—it was the sound. Somewhere ahead, behind olive trees and dusty paths, this deep rushing noise just kept getting louder as we walked. Our driver from Marrakech had been quiet most of the way (I think he was saving his voice for the return), but our guide, Hassan, pointed out little villages tucked into the hills. “That’s where my cousin lives,” he said once, waving at a cluster of faded roofs. The air smelled like damp earth and oranges—someone was squeezing juice right by the trail. I bought a glass, mostly because it looked too good not to.

When we finally saw Ouzoud Falls, it hit me all at once—water tumbling down in layers, spray catching bits of sunlight. There were macaque monkeys darting around (one tried to grab my bag but got distracted by some nuts instead). Hassan laughed and told me their name in Arabic—I tried to repeat it and he shook his head, grinning. We wandered along these narrow paths that sometimes felt like they’d just drop off into green nothingness if you weren’t careful. The main keyword here is “day trip Marrakech Ouzoud Waterfalls,” but honestly, I didn’t care about keywords while I was there—I just wanted to stand still for a minute and watch everything move.

The boat ride was short but kind of wild—these flat wooden boats that look like they shouldn’t float but somehow do. We got close enough to the falls that my shirt was soaked through in seconds (no regrets). Lunch came after—a tagine with bread at this place overlooking the water. There was a cat under every table and everyone seemed happy to just sit quietly for a bit before heading back. On the drive home I kept thinking about how different everything felt outside Marrakech—slower, softer maybe? Still not sure how to describe it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full-day tour to Ouzoud Waterfalls

• Pickup from Marrakech by vehicle
• Drive through Moroccan countryside
• Arrive at Ouzoud Waterfalls
• Walk trails with local guide
• Purchase fresh orange juice
• Boat trip on waterfall basin
• Lunch at local restaurant
• Return drive to accommodation

Top questions

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

The tour lasts a full day including travel time between Marrakech and Ouzoud Falls.

Is hotel pickup included for the Ouzoud Falls tour?

Yes, pickup from your accommodation in Marrakech is included.

Do you get to see monkeys at Ouzoud Waterfalls?

Yes, Barbary macaque monkeys are often seen around the falls area.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

Lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the waterfalls is included.

Is there a boat ride at Ouzoud Falls?

Yes, a traditional boat ride across the basin near the waterfalls is part of the tour.

Are guides provided on this day trip?

A local guide accompanies you around Ouzoud Falls during your visit.

Is this tour suitable for children?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels and specialized infant seats are available.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle from Marrakech, guidance from a local expert around Ouzoud Falls, a short traditional boat ride across the basin below the cascades, and lunch served at a restaurant overlooking the waterfalls before returning in comfort to your accommodation.