Ourika Valley Private Day Trip & Atlas Mountains from Marrakech

Summary

Guided Berber Village Tour & Setti Fatma Waterfalls Experience

This is your chance to visit Berber villages, sip tea with locals, see argan oil made by hand, and hike to Setti Fatma’s waterfalls—all on a private day trip from Marrakech with your own guide and driver. Experience real mountain life just outside the city for a day that feels worlds away.

What’s the experience like?

“Look, that’s where the river splits,” our driver said as we wound past olive groves just outside Marrakech. The city faded fast behind us, replaced by the sharp scent of wild herbs and the sight of red clay homes tucked into green hills. We stopped in a small Berber village—kids waved from a rooftop, and our guide led us into a family house for mint tea. The walls were cool to the touch, and I could hear chickens clucking somewhere out back.

The road followed the Ourika River, which sparkled in the morning sun. We pulled over at a women’s cooperative where local ladies pressed argan nuts by hand—there was this faint nutty smell in the air, and one woman laughed when I tried grinding the seeds myself (it’s harder than it looks). They showed us how they make oils and creams right there; everything felt honest and simple.

By midday we reached Setti Fatma. The place buzzed with locals picnicking by the water, shoes off, feet dipped in the icy stream. Our mountain guide pointed out narrow paths up to the waterfalls—slick stones underfoot, spray on my face, shouts echoing from kids jumping between rocks. Lunch was whenever we felt like it; some folks ate before hiking, others after. On the way back to Marrakech in our air-conditioned car, I watched dusty villages slip by and realized how close all this was to city life—but it felt like another world entirely.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ourika Valley and Waterfalls Tour

• Pickup from Marrakech at 9AM
• Drive to Ourika Valley
• Visit Berber villages
• Stop at women's argan oil cooperative
• Explore Setti Fatma waterfalls with local guide
• Walking tour and photo stops
• Lunch break (personal)
• Drive back to Marrakech
• Drop off at pickup point

Top questions

Is lunch included on this Ourika Valley private day trip?

No, lunch isn’t included—you can bring your own or buy food at one of the cafes near Setti Fatma after your hike.

How difficult is the walk to Setti Fatma waterfalls?

The walk involves some uneven steps and slippery rocks but most people with average fitness can manage it. A local mountain guide will help you along the way.

Are there stops for photos or breaks during the drive?

Yes, we stopped several times for photos at scenic viewpoints and in Berber villages along the route.

Is this tour suitable for families with young children or strollers?

Yes—transport is stroller-friendly and infant seats are available if you let them know ahead of time. Some parts of the waterfall walk may be tricky with strollers though.

What’s included

Your experience comes with private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle plus fuel costs covered, along with a knowledgeable local mountain guide who leads you through villages and up to the waterfalls. If you need WiFi just ask your driver—they’ll set you up—and infant seats are available if requested ahead of time so everyone can travel comfortably together.