Marrakech: Ouzoud Waterfall, Guided Hike, Boat Ride & Lunch

Travelers heading to Marrakech often seek out its vibrant souks, historic medina, and lively atmosphere. But for those craving a break in nature, the trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls offers a fantastic escape. This tour, organized by GMG – PDL Excursions, promises a day filled with scenic landscapes, playful monkeys, and Moroccan hospitality—all for just $19 per person. It’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a mix of adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery, especially given the high 4.8-star rating based on 61 reviews.

What we love about this experience is how it balances affordable pricing with authentic experiences. The scenic drive through the Atlas Mountains sets a tranquil tone, the guided hike brings you close to nature, and the boat ride offers a peaceful perspective of the falls. Plus, the chance to enjoy a traditional Berber lunch with waterfall views makes it perfect for those who want more than just sightseeing. On the flip side, some travelers may find the moderately challenging hike a bit tiring, especially if they prefer to relax rather than trek. Still, this tour suits active travelers, families, or anyone eager to see Morocco’s natural beauty without breaking the bank.

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Key Points

Affordable Price: At $19, this tour offers excellent value, including transportation, guides, and activities.
Stunning Scenery: Expect picturesque views of the Atlas Mountains and the powerful cascades of Ouzoud Waterfalls.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides, like Youness and Mzihour, enrich the experience with interesting facts and friendly service.
Wildlife Encounters: Monkey spotting is a highlight, with playful Barbary macaques often stealing the show.
Multiple Activity Options: Choose between just hiking and boat rides or adding lunch for a full-day experience.
Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance with confidence.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on This Day Trip

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Scenic Drive through the Atlas Mountains

The journey starts with a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle picking you up from your Marrakech accommodation. The drive itself is part of the charm, winding through the breathtaking Atlas Mountains. Expect lush green landscapes, rugged terrain, and small villages dotting the route. Many reviews highlight how the scenery is worth the trip alone, with travelers noting the peaceful, scenic drive as a calming prelude to the day’s adventures.

Guided Hike at Ouzoud Waterfalls

Once you arrive, the real fun begins. The guided hike is described as moderately challenging, though the tour guides, like Youness, ensure everyone stays safe and gets the most out of the trek. Reviewers mention that the guides are full of personality and knowledge, sharing interesting facts and making sure participants are engaged. The trail offers plenty of opportunities to spot playful Barbary macaques, which are often seen swinging through the trees or approaching visitors for food—always be cautious with your belongings!

The hike allows you to get close to the cascading waterfalls, with the sound of rushing water creating a truly immersive experience. For many, this is the highlight: being surrounded by nature’s raw power while capturing beautiful photos.

Boat Ride at the Base of the Waterfalls

One of the standout features of this tour is the boat ride, which takes you right to the foot of the falls. The reviews rave about the stunning views and the peacefulness of the water beneath the roaring cascades. Edi describes the boat ride as fantastic, with plenty of comfortable moments and respectful timing, making it a pleasant way to see the falls from a different perspective. Runners-up mention that the boat ride adds a serene quality to the trip, allowing you to pause and take in the scenery without the noise of the crowds.

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Lunch with a View

After the hike and boat trip, you’ll enjoy a traditional Berber lunch overlooking the waterfalls. The meal provides a welcome break from the activity, and reviewers like Fontaine and Iqra praise the delicious food and friendly service. The restaurant offers a chance to relax, soak in the scenery, and connect over local flavors. Many comment that this meal was a highlight—authentic, tasty, and served with stunning views.

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Flexibility for Relaxers

If hiking isn’t your thing, don’t worry. The tour allows for non-hikers to relax at a restaurant by the falls, where you can enjoy the scenery or explore the local culture until the group reconvenes. This flexibility makes the experience suitable for different energy levels and interests.

The Experience: Why It Works

Transportation and Group Size

The tour includes pickup and drop-off at your Marrakech accommodation, which saves you the hassle of planning transportation. The vehicles are air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the drive. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for a more personalized experience, as many reviews mention friendly guides like Youness and Samir making the trip memorable.

Duration and Timing

The full-day trip offers a balanced mix of activity and relaxation, with most of the day spent exploring the waterfalls and enjoying the scenery. Precise timings aren’t specified, but the reviews suggest a well-paced day with plenty of opportunities for photos and breaks.

Price and Value

At $19 per person, this tour offers excellent value for money. It includes transportation, a guided hike, boat ride, and lunch, which would be costly to arrange independently. The inclusion of knowledgeable guides and flexible options to relax or hike further enhances the appeal. Some travelers note that the guides are very personable, making the experience even more enjoyable.

The Authentic Connection

Many reviews highlight the authenticity and warmth of the guides, especially Youness and Mzihour, who go beyond just leading the group—they share stories, facts, and local insights. This personal touch adds depth to the day, transforming a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable cultural experience.

The Wildlife and Nature

The monkey sightings are a crowd favorite. Reviewers like Olivia mention how the playful Barbary macaques add a fun, lively element to the hike. Being able to see these animals up close is an added bonus that enhances the natural appeal of the waterfalls.

The Scenic Views

From the drive through the mountains to the waterfall vistas, the picturesque landscapes are what make this tour stand out. Many travelers mention how the views are breathtaking and worth every penny, especially with the added bonus of capturing stunning photos.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurers and nature lovers who want an affordable yet comprehensive day trip from Marrakech. It suits those eager to see Morocco’s natural beauty, spot wildlife, and enjoy authentic local cuisine. Families with children over 2 years old will find this trip manageable and rewarding, though the hike’s moderate difficulty might be tiring for some.

If you prefer more relaxed sightseeing without strenuous activity, you can opt to stay at the restaurant by the falls and wait for the group’s return. The tour’s flexibility and friendly guides make it accessible for a wide range of travelers, from solo explorers to couples and small groups.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Absolutely. For just $19, this tour offers an authentically Moroccan experience that combines nature, culture, and adventure. The scenic drive, guided hike, boat ride, and traditional lunch come together to create a well-rounded day that feels both special and practical. The high praise in reviews—especially about guides like Youness and Mzihour—attests to the quality of the experience.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to discover the beauty of Ouzoud Waterfalls without sacrificing comfort or authenticity, this trip should be at the top of your list. Just pack comfortable shoes, your camera, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your Marrakech accommodation are included in the price, along with air-conditioned transport.

How challenging is the hike?
The hike is described as moderately challenging. However, guides ensure everyone can participate comfortably, and participation is encouraged but optional.

Can I skip the hike?
Yes, if hiking isn’t your thing, you can relax at the restaurant near the falls and wait until the group returns.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and a camera to capture all the beautiful moments.

How long does the tour last?
Most of the day is dedicated to exploring, with the timing designed to balance activity with leisure, but specific hours aren’t provided.

Is the food authentic?
Absolutely. The lunch is a traditional Berber meal served with scenic views of the waterfalls, highly praised by travelers.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children over 2 years old can join, but keep in mind the moderate hike may be tiring for some young kids.

Is it suitable for solo travelers?
Definitely. The friendly guides and group setting make it easy to meet others and feel comfortable.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for travel planning.

To sum it up, this tour offers an approachable, value-packed introduction to Morocco’s natural wonders. With friendly guides, stunning scenery, and authentic experiences, it’s perfect for travelers wanting a memorable day outside Marrakech’s bustling streets. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful escape, this trip is well worth considering.