Marrakech to Ouzoud Waterfalls: Day Trip & Small Boat Ride

Summary

Atlas mountains day trip to Ouzoud waterfalls with boat ride and group pickup

You’ll feel Morocco shift under your feet on this small-group day trip from Marrakech to Ouzoud Waterfalls. Hear the thunder of North Africa’s highest falls, share lunch by the river, ride a boat into cool spray, and watch monkeys play along red cliffs. Includes pickup, air-conditioned transport, and a local guide — just bring your curiosity.

What’s the experience like?

I’d heard about the Ouzoud Waterfalls before but honestly didn’t expect them to feel so alive — you can actually hear the water thundering down before you even see it. The drive from Marrakech was longer than I thought (about three hours), but our driver was friendly and kept things easy, pointing out olive groves and little villages tucked into the hills. We stopped for mint tea at this roadside place where a cat tried to steal my biscuit. I still think about that view — red earth, green trees, then suddenly all this misty air as we got closer.

The falls themselves are wild — 110 meters high, so there’s this constant roar and a coolness in the air that hits you after the heat of Marrakech. Our group was just a handful of people (maybe 12?), which made it feel less like a tour and more like wandering around with new friends. A local guide met us by the path and showed us where Berber women were washing clothes in the river below. He laughed when I tried to pronounce “Ouzoud” properly (I definitely butchered it). We took one of those little boats right up close to the spray — I got soaked but didn’t mind at all.

Lunch was simple: tagine by the river, bread still warm from the oven, and oranges for dessert. There were monkeys everywhere — they’re cheeky but not aggressive, just waiting for someone to drop a crumb. The walk back up felt longer than on the way down (maybe because I ate too much), but it’s worth it for those last glimpses of water cutting through rock. On the way home everyone was quiet, tired in that good way after being outside all day.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Day trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls

• Depart from Marrakech
• Travel to Ouzoud Waterfalls
• Join small group tour
• Explore Ouzoud Waterfalls
• Enjoy boat tour at falls
• Return to Marrakech

Top questions

How long is the drive from Marrakech to Ouzoud Waterfalls?

It takes about three hours each way by air-conditioned vehicle.

Is pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, pickup and drop off are both included in your booking.

How big are the groups on this tour?

The groups are small, never exceeding 17 people.

Do I need to be very fit for this tour?

No special fitness level is required; it's suitable for most travelers.

Is there a guide at Ouzoud Waterfalls?

Yes, you'll meet a local guide who will show you around at the falls.

Are infants or young children allowed?

Yes, specialized infant seats are available if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop off in Marrakech, travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver, plus time with a local guide at Ouzoud Waterfalls. A small group size keeps things relaxed while ground services handle all logistics so you can just enjoy each part of the trip.