Marrakech to Ouzoud Waterfalls: Day Trip with Boat Ride & Trek

Summary

Ouzoud falls day trip from Marrakech with trekking, boat ride and local lunch

You’ll leave Marrakech behind for a full day at Ouzoud Waterfalls, trekking down shaded paths with a local guide, crossing the river by boat, and sharing lunch overlooking the cascades. Expect laughter (maybe from monkeys), cool spray on your face, and small surprises that linger long after you’re back in the city.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the drive out of Marrakech to feel so different — like the city just faded away behind us. Our minibus rumbled past little villages where kids waved (one tried to race us on a bike, which made our guide laugh). The air changed too, getting cooler and smelling faintly of olives. I kept thinking how this was still so close to Marrakech but felt like another country.

When we finally got to Ouzoud Waterfalls after almost three hours, the sound hit first — not roaring exactly, but steady and deep. Our guide Youssef led us down a dusty path lined with fig trees (and monkeys overhead eyeing our snacks — I nearly lost my granola bar). There was this moment when spray from the falls caught the sun and everything shimmered. We took one of those little boats across the river — it’s not fancy but honestly, gliding right up close to that wall of water was kind of wild. I got splashed more than I thought I would.

Lunch was in this open-air spot where you could see the whole cascade through gaps in the leaves. Tagine tasted better after all that walking — or maybe it was just being able to sit and watch people laughing at monkeys stealing bread. On the way back up those endless stairs (my legs are still annoyed), Youssef pointed out wild herbs growing along the rocks. He crushed some mint between his fingers for us to smell — sharp and sweet at once. It’s funny what sticks in your head after a day like that.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Day trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls

• Depart Marrakech at 8:00 am
• Drive through Moroccan towns and villages
• Arrive at Ouzoud Waterfalls after 3 hours
• Meet local guide and explore cascades
• Walk down along the waterfalls
• Boat ride across the river
• Relax and enjoy lunch with waterfall view
• Return by stairs and see wild monkeys
• Drive back to Marrakech by minibus

Top questions

How long is the drive from Marrakech to Ouzoud Waterfalls?

The drive takes about three hours each way by minibus.

Is there a guide included on this Ouzoud waterfalls day trip?

Yes, a local guide leads the trekking part at Ouzoud Waterfalls.

Do you get to ride a boat at Ouzoud Falls?

Yes, a short boat ride across the river is included in the tour.

Is lunch provided during the day trip?

You’ll have time for lunch at restaurants overlooking the waterfalls; lunch cost may vary by restaurant.

Are there monkeys at Ouzoud Waterfalls?

Yes, wild monkeys live in the trees near the falls and are often seen by visitors.

What time does pickup start in Marrakech?

The tour usually starts around 8:00 am with pickup in Marrakech.

How much walking is involved during this trip?

You’ll trek down paths along the cascades and climb stairs back up; moderate fitness is helpful.

Is this trip suitable for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries due to walking and stairs.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup in Marrakech by air-conditioned vehicle, guided trekking at Ouzoud Waterfalls, a short boat ride across the river, and time for lunch overlooking the cascades before returning by minibus in the afternoon.