Ouzoud Waterfalls Day Trip from Marrakech with Pickup

Summary

Ouzoud Falls day trip with olive groves lunch & Atlas views

You’ll follow winding roads from Marrakech to Ouzoud Waterfalls, hearing local stories as you walk under olive trees and feel the cool spray at North Africa’s highest falls. Enjoy lunch overlooking rushing water before heading back with new friends — it’s a day that lingers long after you return.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed wasn’t the waterfalls — it was the sound. Like distant applause, echoing before we even saw any water. We’d left Marrakech early (I’m not really a morning person, but somehow that drive through the dry hills made me wide awake). Our driver, Youssef, stopped in Tamlalte for coffee and I tried to order in French — he grinned and helped me out. The air smelled like fresh bread and diesel, which is weirdly comforting when you’re far from home.

When we finally reached Ouzoud Waterfalls, our local guide was waiting under an old olive tree. He led us down the path lined with wildflowers and explained how “Ouzoud” means “olive” in Berber — I didn’t know that. The spray hit my face as we got closer to the base, cool and sharp after the dusty walk. There were macaque monkeys everywhere (one tried to steal someone’s snack), and kids splashing in little pools below. The falls are huge — 110 meters or something — but standing there, you mostly just feel small in a good way.

Lunch was at a simple place overlooking the water. Tagine, of course, with bread still warm from the oven. Our guide pointed out old mills on top of the cliffs — apparently they still work when there’s enough water. I watched birds dart through the mist while everyone just kind of sat quietly for a bit, which doesn’t happen often on tours like this. On the way back to Marrakech we stopped again for coffee in Ouled Khellouf; someone played music on their phone and we all just listened out the window as the sun started dropping behind the hills. I still think about that view sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ouzoud Waterfalls day trip from Marrakech

• Meet at riad or hotel in Marrakech
• Drive to Tamlalte for coffee break
• Continue to Ouzoud Waterfalls
• Walk around waterfalls with guide
• Take photos and learn history
• Enjoy lunch with waterfall views
• Drive back, stop at Ouled Khellouf café
• Relax and chat with driver and travelers
• Return to Marrakech drop-off point

Top questions

How far are Ouzoud Waterfalls from Marrakech?

About 150 km northeast of Marrakech; around two hours by car each way.

Is hotel pickup included for this Ouzoud Falls day trip?

Yes, your driver will pick you up directly from your riad or hotel in Marrakech.

What do you do at Ouzoud Waterfalls?

You’ll walk along paths near the falls, see traditional mills, enjoy views, and have lunch overlooking the waterfalls.

Are meals included during this excursion?

You’ll have time for lunch at a restaurant by the waterfalls; food is typically not included in tour price but arranged locally.

Is this trip suitable for families or kids?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels and families; infant seats are available if needed.

Do you need to hike or is it easy walking?

The main paths are easy to moderate; some steps can be uneven but most people manage fine.

Will there be a guide at Ouzoud Falls?

A local guide meets you at Ouzoud to show you around and share area history.

Are there monkeys at Ouzoud Waterfalls?

Yes, Barbary macaques live around the falls — they’re playful but watch your snacks!

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off from your Marrakech hotel or riad, travel in an air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver, guided walks around Ouzoud Falls’ paths among olive trees, plus stops for coffee breaks along the way before returning to where you started.