Marrakesh: Ourika Valley Day Trip & Atlas Waterfalls Lunch

Summary

Ourika Valley day trip with Berber tea, Atlas hike and riverside lunch

You’ll leave Marrakesh behind for a day among Atlas peaks and green valleys, sipping sweet mint tea in a Berber home before hiking to Setti Fatma waterfalls with your local guide. Taste real Moroccan tagine by the river and watch life slow down around you — this day trip is all about small moments you’ll want to hold onto.

What’s the experience like?

The road out of Marrakesh just sort of slips away behind you — one minute it’s all city noise and scooters, then suddenly we’re winding past red clay villages and olive trees. I was still half-awake when our guide, Youssef, pointed out the first peaks of the Atlas Mountains. There was this coolness in the air that felt different from the city heat, almost like someone had opened a window. We stopped at a women’s argan cooperative (the smell inside — nutty and sweet, kind of like almond butter but earthier) and watched them grind paste by hand. I tried to say thank you in Darija; they smiled politely. Probably mangled it.

Ourika Valley itself feels like a secret garden tucked between mountains. At a Berber house, we sat on faded cushions while an old man poured us mint tea — he did that thing where they pour from high up so it foams. The sugar hit me first, then the sharp green of the mint. It tasted better than any café back home, honestly. Youssef told stories about growing up nearby; his laugh echoed off the stone walls. Then we set off walking towards Setti Fatma waterfalls, passing kids selling figs and donkeys clopping by with baskets tied on their sides.

The hike wasn’t exactly easy (my shoes were not made for scrambling over rocks), but every time I looked up there was another view — terraces stacked with wildflowers, water glinting through poplars. The waterfalls themselves were louder than I expected; spray on my face felt good after the climb. We took too many photos, probably blocked someone else’s shot (sorry if that was you). Lunch came later by the river: tagine bubbling hot, bread to tear apart with your hands, dessert that tasted faintly of orange blossom. I remember dipping my fingers in the cold river between bites just because I could.

I keep thinking about how quiet it got sometimes — just wind through trees and Youssef humming something under his breath as we drove back to Marrakesh. Not everything went smoothly (I dropped my phone in the grass at one point), but honestly? That’s what makes me remember it more clearly.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ourika Valley and Atlas Mountains tour

• Drive to Atlas Mountains
• Stop at panoramic viewpoint
• Visit argan oil cooperative
• Visit Berber house for mint tea
• Guided walk to Setti Fatma waterfalls
• Enjoy three-course riverside lunch

Top questions

How long is the drive from Marrakesh to Ourika Valley?

It usually takes about an hour each way by air-conditioned transport.

Is lunch included on this Ourika Valley day trip?

Yes, if you select the option with lunch, you'll get a three-course meal served beside the river.

What should I wear for hiking to Setti Fatma waterfalls?

Comfortable walking shoes or trainers are best; some rocky paths can be slippery.

Are hotel pickup and drop-off included?

Yes, pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Marrakesh are included.

Is this tour suitable for children or infants?

Yes, infants can ride in prams or strollers; specialized infant seats are available if needed.

Will we visit an argan oil cooperative?

Yes, there's a stop at a traditional women's argan oil cooperative where you can see how it's made by hand.

How difficult is the hike to Setti Fatma waterfalls?

The hike involves some uneven ground but is suitable for most fitness levels; not recommended for those with mobility issues.

Do we get to meet local Berber families?

You’ll visit a Berber house for tea and learn about local culture during your stop in Ourika Valley.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off at your Marrakesh accommodation, all transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water along the way, a guided walk to Setti Fatma waterfalls with a professional mountain guide from the region, stops at both an argan cooperative and a Berber family house for mint tea, plus—if you choose—the full three-course riverside lunch before heading back to town.