Lunch in the High Atlas: Ourika Valley Waterfalls & 3 Valleys – A Complete Review
Exploring Morocco’s landscapes doesn’t have to mean just soaking in Marrakech’s hustle. This tour offers a full day of contrasting sights—from lush river valleys to arid desert vistas—all packed into a surprisingly affordable package. We’re here to give you the lowdown on what makes this experience worthwhile—and where it might fall short.
What we love most? The chance to see stunning waterfalls in Ourika Valley, the beauty of the High Atlas mountains, and the authentic Moroccan food at a local argan cooperative. Plus, the camel ride at sunset truly captures the magic of desert life. The only caveat? The tour can feel a little “mass-touristy” at times, especially with larger groups, and some might find the transportation logistics a bit tight.
This trip suits travelers craving an authentic taste of Morocco’s varied landscapes without breaking the bank. If you enjoy scenic hikes, cultural stops, and a splash of adventure, this tour offers a well-balanced day with highlights that appeal to diverse interests.
Key Points
- Diverse landscapes: From waterfalls and lush valleys to arid desert scenes.
- Authentic cultural spots: Experience argan oil production and traditional Moroccan cuisine.
- Guided hiking: Explore Imlil Valley’s waterfalls and Berber villages.
- Memorable sunset camel ride: Capture stunning photos and enjoy a peaceful ride.
- Value for money: At around $17.45, this offers a full day of activities including transport.
- Group size: Usually limited to 15 travelers, balancing intimacy with social fun.
Looking for more options in Central Morocco? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary
Starting in Marrakech
The day begins with a pick-up from your hotel or a designated meeting point. The tour operator, Art de Cuivre Travel, often offers private transport, helping keep things smooth and stress-free. We loved the way the trip starts with a quick journey into the scenic landscapes outside Marrakech, giving you a taste of Morocco’s countryside immediately.
Visiting the Argon Oil Cooperative
Your first stop is at a traditional Berber argan oil cooperative. Here, you get to see local women craft argan oil using age-old methods. It’s a great chance to learn about the importance of argan, both medicinally and economically, and often includes a tasting of fresh mint tea, bread, and honey. Based on reviews, this stop is genuinely informative and not just a tourist trap—many travelers appreciated the chance to see the process firsthand and even try spinning the oil itself.
Exploring the Ourika Valley
Next, you’ll venture into the Ourika Valley, famed for its rivers, terraced farms, and waterfalls. The lush scenery here makes it a perfect backdrop for photos or a short stroll. The highlight is undoubtedly the Waterfalls of Setti Fatma, which several reviews describe as breathtaking. Some travelers noted the path to the waterfalls can be “dangerous,” especially for less adventurous hikers, but the effort rewards you with cool mist and stunning natural beauty. One reviewer mentioned that the path was risky, so it’s wise to wear proper footwear and proceed cautiously.
Hike in the Imlil Valley
Continuing further into the mountains, you’ll join a guided walk through Imlil Valley, where waterfalls and Berber villages dot the landscape. This part of the tour is perfect for nature lovers and offers a chance to see rural Moroccan life up close. Reviewers often mention the guide’s knowledge, with some calling out guides like Rahim and Yasmin as particularly attentive and informative. Expect about two hours of light hiking, with plenty of opportunities for photos and a chance to admire the majestic peaks of the High Atlas.
Scenic Journey Back to Marrakech
After a full morning and early afternoon of sightseeing, you’ll begin the return leg. The journey offers scenic mountain views as you wind your way back to Marrakech. The drive itself is a highlight, with several reviewers commenting on the beautiful landscapes flashing past the window.
The Desert Experience: Sunset Camel Ride & Dinner
If you opt for the sunset desert adventure, the real magic begins in the late afternoon when you arrive at the Agafay Desert—a rugged, stony landscape that offers a different kind of desert charm from the Sahara but is equally photogenic.
Camel Ride at Sunset
One of the biggest hits from travelers is the camel ride during sunset. Expect to climb onto a camel and hold on tight as the sun dips behind the hills, casting a golden glow. Reviewers consistently mention how relaxing and picturesque this part is, perfect for photos and peaceful moments. Some note that the camels are tied in groups and walk short distances, which might feel a bit touristy or rushed, but the scenery more than makes up for it.
Dinner Under the Stars
Following the ride, you’re seated around a private table in a cozy desert camp. The dinner features a 3-course Moroccan meal, often including dishes like tagine and couscous, with many reviewers praising the delicious local flavors. The setting around a campfire, combined with traditional music and occasional performances, creates a warm, communal atmosphere. One reviewer highlighted that the dinner was great value given that everything, including water and toilets, was included in the price.
Campfire Entertainment
Once dinner concludes, you can join others around the campfire for live music and dancing under the stars. Some reviews mention fire shows and traditional Moroccan music, which really adds to the atmosphere. It’s a fun, memorable way to wind down the evening.
The Experience’s Value
While some critics mention the large crowds and the somewhat “mass-touristy” feel, most agree that the price (~$17.45) offers good value for a full evening of activities. The guides, like Abdo and Khalid, are praised for their hospitable attitude and helpfulness, making the experience feel personalized despite the group size.
Practical Details and Tips
- Transportation: The tour includes return transport, which is a major plus. However, some travelers found the hotel pickup to be a bit far from their actual hotel, so confirm the exact pickup point.
- Duration: Expect the total experience to last around 7 hours, making it a full-day adventure.
- Group Size: Usually capped at 15 travelers, balancing the fun of a group with more personalized attention.
- Cost: At $17.45, this tour represents excellent value considering the number of stops, meals, and activities included.
- What to Wear: For the waterfall hike and mountain walks, sturdy shoes are advisable. Bring layers, as it can get chilly in the desert at night.
- Hygiene & Food: Some reviews mention concerns about hygiene, especially regarding food safety and the state of camels. Keep this in mind if you’re particularly cautious about hygiene standards.
Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback
While many travelers rave about the guided hikes, scenic views, and delicious food, some mention issues like poorly maintained camels or long waits for the fire show. For example, one reviewer noted that the camels were tied up and walked very short distances, which might disappoint animal welfare advocates. Others pointed out that the sunset and fire show can be delayed or feel rushed, especially if large crowds gather.
Despite these mixed comments, the overall consensus is that this tour offers a fun, scenic, and culturally enriching day. If you’re flexible and appreciate good value, you’ll find plenty to enjoy.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This experience is best suited for budget-conscious travelers eager to see a variety of Moroccan landscapes in one day. It’s perfect if you want to combine nature, culture, and a touch of adventure without a hefty price tag. The tour’s mix of guided hikes, scenic drives, and desert fun appeals to those looking for something more authentic than a typical city tour.
It’s also ideal for small groups or families who enjoy social experiences, though larger groups might find it a little crowded or rushed. Travelers keen on photography will love the sunset camel ride and waterfalls, and those interested in Moroccan cuisine will appreciate the included meals.
FAQs
Is hotel pickup offered?
Yes, the tour provides pickup from Marrakech, but some reviews mention the pickup point being slightly far from certain hotels, so confirm your exact location when booking.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 7 hours, covering mountain stops, waterfalls, and desert activities.
What is included in the price?
Return transport, guided hikes, stops at argan oil cooperatives, waterfall visits, camel ride at sunset, dinner, live entertainment, and campfire activities are generally included.
Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviewers praise guides like Rahim, Yasmin, and Khalid for their friendliness and attentiveness, enhancing the overall experience.
Is the camel ride worth it?
Most visitors say yes, citing beautiful sunset views, but some mention the short ride length and the tied-up camels, which could be a concern for animal welfare advocates.
Can I expect good food?
Absolutely. The dinner is typically Moroccan traditional fare, with many saying it’s tasty and good value, especially considering it’s all included.
Final Thoughts
This tour offers a balanced blend of scenic landscapes, cultural insights, and desert adventure—all at an accessible price point. It’s particularly suited for those who want a full-day experience that showcases Morocco’s diverse beauty without fuss or excessive cost.
While it might feel a bit touristy at times, the authentic stops—like the argan cooperative and waterfalls—provide genuine glimpses into local life. The sunset camel ride and dinner under the stars are memorable highlights that create a feeling of connection to the landscape and culture.
If you’re after affordable, well-organized sightseeing with a dash of adventure, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring layers, and keep a flexible attitude for the occasional long wait or crowd. Overall, a fun, value-packed day that’s worth considering if you want to escape Marrakech’s hustle and discover Morocco’s natural charm.