Marrakech to Ouzoud Waterfalls: Guided Day Trip & Boat Ride

Summary

Ouzoud’s wild monkeys, cool mist and a slow lunch above the falls

You’ll trek down winding paths with a local guide from Marrakech, feel cool mist on your skin during a boat ride beneath Ouzoud Waterfalls, share lunch with views over the valley, and maybe even trade glances with cheeky Barbary macaques. It’s a day that lingers long after you’ve left.

What’s the experience like?

“Watch your step—monkeys love to steal hats here,” our guide Youssef grinned as we hopped out of the minivan near Ouzoud Falls. I’d barely stretched my legs before I heard them—Barbary macaques chattering in the olive trees, one dropping a pit right at my feet (felt like a welcome, honestly). The air was sticky with that earthy smell after last night’s rain, and you could already hear the waterfalls rumbling somewhere below us. We started down the rocky path, Youssef pointing out wild herbs growing along the trail—he crushed a sprig between his fingers for us to smell. Minty but sharper than what I’m used to back home.

The walk was easier than I expected—just watch for loose stones—and suddenly there it was: Ouzoud Waterfalls, taller than any photo ever shows. Mist on my face, sun trying to burn through clouds. There were locals selling sweet oranges by the water’s edge (I bought one; juice ran down my chin), and then we climbed into these flat wooden boats painted red and blue. The boat ride got us so close I could feel spray on my eyelashes. Youssef told us stories about Berber villages nearby while we drifted under that thundering curtain of water—I still think about that sound when things get too quiet.

Lunch was up a little path at this family-run place overlooking the falls—tagine bubbling away in clay pots, bread warm from the fire. A cat tried to charm some chicken from me (it worked). We all just sat there for a while, not really talking much because you don’t need to with that view. Afterward we had time to wander or just sit under an olive tree—I ended up watching kids skipping stones and thinking how different this day trip from Marrakech felt compared to city noise. The drive back was quiet; everyone half asleep or replaying those waterfall moments in their heads.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ouzoud Waterfalls guided tour and boat ride

• Travel from Marrakech to Ouzoud
• Guided tour of Ouzoud Waterfall
• Trek with local professional guide
• Enjoy boat ride at the waterfalls
• Have traditional lunch overlooking falls
• Free time to explore the area
• Return to Marrakech

Top questions

How far is Ouzoud Waterfalls from Marrakech?

Ouzoud Waterfalls are about 150 km northeast of Marrakech, usually around 2.5-3 hours by minivan each way.

Is lunch included in this day trip?

No, lunch is not included but you’ll stop at a local restaurant where you can buy traditional Moroccan dishes overlooking the falls.

Are hotel pickup and drop-off provided?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Marrakech are included in this guided tour.

Do I need special shoes for trekking at Ouzoud Falls?

It’s recommended to wear trekking shoes or something similar with good grip since paths can be uneven or slippery.

Will I see monkeys at Ouzoud Waterfalls?

Yes, Barbary macaque monkeys live around Ouzoud Falls and are often seen along the paths.

Is there a boat ride included at Ouzoud Falls?

Yes, a short boat ride near the base of the waterfalls is part of this day trip experience.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels; infants must sit on an adult’s lap but specialized seats are available if needed.

How long do we spend at Ouzoud Waterfalls?

You’ll have several hours at Ouzoud Falls including time for trekking, lunch and exploring freely before returning to Marrakech.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Marrakech by air-conditioned minivan, all transport with a professional driver, a guided trek with a local expert at Ouzoud Waterfalls, plus a short boat ride beneath the falls—leaving you free to soak up every moment without worrying about logistics.