Day Trip to Ouzoud Falls from Marrakech: Hiking, Swimming & Berber Lunch
A day trip from Marrakech brings you to the Cascades d'Ouzoud—110 meters of plunging water, riverside hikes and terraces serving Berber tagine. This guide tells you what to expect, when to go and how to prepare for the best visit.
The Experience
Before You Go
Wear grippy shoes
Stairs and riverside rocks get slippery—choose hiking shoes with good tread rather than sneakers or sandals.
Carry cash
Most small restaurants and craft stalls accept only Moroccan dirham—bring small bills for lunch, tips, and shopping.
Bring a refillable water bottle
There are refill points, but water stops aren’t always at trailheads—stay hydrated during the 2‑hour loop.
Avoid feeding the monkeys
Barbary macaques are common; feeding them alters behavior and increases human-wildlife conflict—observe from a distance.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Traditional olive watermills and shaded orchards along the trail—less visited and great for close-up photos
- •Small terraced viewpoints upstream of the main falls where light hits the water in late afternoon
Wildlife
- •Barbary macaque (wild monkeys)
- •Kingfisher and other river birds
Conservation Note
Visitors are asked not to leave litter, to avoid feeding wildlife, and to support local businesses that follow sustainable harvesting practices to protect the riparian habitat.
Local Berber communities have used the gorge and its watermills for centuries; the name Ouzoud is associated with olives and the agricultural heritage of the Middle Atlas.
Photographer's Notes
- • Upper rim viewpoint overlooking the full drop
- • Terrace restaurants for framed waterfall and meal shots
- • Trail ledges above the plunge pools for close-up dynamics
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Provides traction on wet stone steps and scramble sections along the river.
Refillable water bottle (1–2 L)Essential
Keeps you hydrated during the drive and the riverside hike; refillable at local stops.
Swimwear and quick-dry towel
For a dip in the plunge pools—bring modest swimwear and a towel for changing.
Sun hat and sunscreenEssential
Exposed terraces and parking areas get strong sun—protect skin and eyes during midday.
Common Questions
How long is the drive from Marrakech to Ouzoud?
Expect roughly 2.5–3 hours each way by minibus depending on traffic and stops along the national road.
Is swimming safe at the falls?
Yes—there are calm plunge pools suitable for swimming, but avoid areas with strong currents and watch for slippery rocks.
Are guides or boats included?
Most day tours include a local guide for the riverside loop; boat trips across the basin are usually available for a small extra fee at the site.
Can I visit with children or older travelers?
Families and older travelers can enjoy the rim viewpoints and restaurants; descending to pools involves many steps and may be strenuous for some.
Do I need cash or can I pay by card?
Bring cash in Moroccan dirham—cards are often not accepted at small restaurants, craft stalls, or for boat rides.
What should I do about monkeys?
Observe them from a distance, secure food, and do not feed them—feeding encourages aggressive behavior and health problems.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8–9 hours
Location
Ouzoud, Azilal Province
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—able to walk on uneven trails and descend/ascend several hundred meters over 1–2 hours
Ready to Explore Ouzoud?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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