Ourika Valley & Atlas Mountains Day Trip from Marrakech

Summary

Guided Ourika Valley Waterfalls Tour & Berber Village Experience

You’ll get out of busy Marrakech for a real taste of mountain life: meet Berber locals, see how argan oil is made by hand, hike to waterfalls with a friendly guide, and unwind beside cool rivers in Setti Fatma. This day trip packs in culture, scenery, and genuine moments you won’t find in town.

What’s the experience like?

Leaving Marrakech behind, the city’s noise faded fast as we wound up into the Atlas foothills. The air felt cooler—almost crisp, even in late spring. Our driver took us through narrow bends where you could spot tiny villages clinging to the hillsides. Kids waved as we passed, and every so often, a donkey cart ambled along the roadside. It’s hard not to stare out the window the whole way; there’s always something new—a patch of wildflowers, a shepherd with his flock, or just that endless mountain backdrop.

Setti Fatma was our main stop in the Ourika Valley. There’s this gentle sound of water everywhere—streams running right by the cafés, locals rinsing mint for tea at the river’s edge. We visited a women-run argan oil cooperative tucked off a side road. Watching them crack open those tough nuts by hand is something else; you can smell the roasted kernels before you even step inside. The guide explained how every bottle takes hours of work—makes you appreciate each drop.

The walk up to the waterfalls isn’t too tough if you take it slow (I wore sneakers and was glad I did). Our local guide pointed out wild herbs growing between rocks and told stories about Berber traditions along the way. At one point, we stopped for fresh orange juice at a tiny shack—honestly, it tasted sweeter than any I’d had in Marrakech. After snapping some photos by the falls (watch your step on wet stones), we had time to relax at a riverside café—feet almost touching the water, tagine bubbling away nearby. On the drive back, everyone was quiet—just soaking it all in.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Atlas Mountains and Ourika Valley

• Drive through High Atlas Mountains
• Visit Setti Fatma and argan co-operative
• Guided walk to Ourika waterfalls

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids or older travelers?

Yes! The walk to the waterfalls is optional and flexible—you can relax at a riverside café if you prefer not to hike. Most ages do fine here.

What should I wear or bring?

Comfortable shoes are best (the paths can be rocky). Bring sun protection and maybe a light jacket—the mountains are cooler than Marrakech.

Can I buy argan oil directly from the co-op?

Absolutely! You’ll see how it’s made and have a chance to purchase fresh argan products straight from the source.

What’s included

Your ride from Marrakech (pickup and drop-off), bottled water, all entrance fees, brunch at a local spot, plus an optional guided walk in the Atlas Mountains are all covered. Just bring your curiosity—and maybe your camera!