From Marrakech: Ouzoud Waterfalls Guided Hike and Boat Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day away from the hustle of Marrakech, the Ouzoud Waterfalls tour offers a scenic escape into Morocco’s natural beauty. With stunning views, a relaxing boat ride, and opportunities to see the cheeky Barbary monkeys, this trip promises a memorable experience. While it’s quite tourist-friendly, the highlights make it worth every penny—especially at just $12 per person.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see North Africa’s tallest waterfalls, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, and learn about local Berber culture. We also appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup and the value of a guided, organized trip. One thing to keep in mind: the walk from the top to the bottom of the waterfalls can be steep and uneven, so good shoes are a must. This tour is perfect for nature lovers, those curious about Berber traditions, or travelers looking for a budget-friendly adventure outside Marrakech.

Key Points

• Stunning natural scenery with dramatic waterfalls and lush green surroundings
• Affordable price offering good value for guided transportation and local insights
• Wildlife encounters with friendly Barbary monkeys in their natural habitat
• Scenic boat ride that cools you off and offers a different perspective of the waterfalls
• Cultural experiences including a visit to Berber villages and argan oil production
• Comfortable transport with air-conditioned minibus and professional driver

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Ouzoud Waterfalls Tour

This day trip from Marrakech is designed for those wanting to catch a glimpse of Morocco’s natural landscape without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Starting early with hotel pickup, you’ll travel in a modern, air-conditioned minibus, with a friendly, fluent-speaking driver who will ensure your journey is smooth and engaging. The drive itself is quite scenic—passing through olive groves, red cliffs, and the vibrant landscape that makes the Atlas Mountains so captivating.

Once you arrive at Ouzoud, you’ll be greeted by the sight of the three majestic waterfalls, which are the tallest in North Africa. The landscape is a mix of rugged cliffs, lush greenery, and traditional Berber houses, making it a feast for the eyes and perfect for photography. Many reviews highlight how accessible and easy it is to explore, with paths that allow you to view the falls from multiple angles, including some viewpoints from above and close up.

The Waterfalls: What to Expect

The core feature of this trip is, of course, the Ouzoud Waterfalls. These waterfalls cascade from a height of about 110 meters, creating a thunderous roar and a constant spray of mist. The scenery here is truly breathtaking, especially if you take your time to wander along the well-maintained trails.

Reviewers mention that the walk around the falls is “not a hike, but a leisurely stroll,” which makes it accessible for most visitors. It’s an easy walk around the base of the falls, with some viewpoints offering stunning angles. Be prepared for some uneven or steep sections if you decide to walk from the top down to the river below — sturdy shoes are essential.

You might also spot the local Barbary monkeys, which are really the highlight for many visitors. One reviewer advises, “Don’t give anything other than peanuts to the monkeys—they’re dying from the plastic packaging in the wild,” pointing out the importance of responsible wildlife interactions. These playful animals are a favorite, and many guests enjoy taking photos with them among the trees.

Boat Ride: A Cool Perspective

A major highlight, according to reviews, is the boat trip. This is often an optional extra paid locally, but for many, it’s worth the additional cost (~$2). The boat allows you to get closer to the base of the falls, giving you a different view and a refreshing way to cool off. Reviewers say the boat ride is “unmissable” and adds a fun, relaxing element to the day.

The boat trip lasts about 20 minutes, providing ample time to take photos and enjoy the roar of the water from below. It’s a peaceful contrast to the more energetic walking, and many appreciate this chance to see the waterfalls from a different angle.

Traditional Berber Culture and Local Stops

Beyond the waterfalls, the tour dives into local Berber culture. Visitors often visit traditional Berber houses, marveling at their unique architecture. One reviewer shared that they learned how Berber women make argan oil, a natural process that’s both simple and fascinating.

Lunch isn’t included in the tour price but is recommended at a local restaurant with views of the falls. The restaurant serves traditional Berber tagine, with prices around 10-12 USD, and reviews praise the quality of the food. It’s a great way to relax and take in the scenery while sampling authentic Moroccan cuisine.

Travelers also enjoy observing how Berber communities produce argan oil, a crucial part of local life and Moroccan exports. The guide will usually point out these small demonstrations, adding an educational element to the trip.

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Practical Details and Tips

The tour is flexible, with options for shared or private groups. The shared tour is budget-friendly, while a private option offers more flexibility and intimacy. Pickup from hotels over 7 km outside Marrakech might incur an extra fee, so it’s worth confirming your location beforehand.

The entire trip lasts about a full day, offering sufficient time at the waterfalls, the boat ride, and the cultural stops. The walk from the top of the falls down to the river can be steep and uneven—wear sturdy sports shoes to avoid slipping or discomfort.

What to bring? Sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothing, and sports shoes are recommended. Pets are not allowed, so plan accordingly.

While the tour is generally accessible, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those over 70 due to the walking terrain and physical demands.

Value for Money

At just $12 per person, this tour packs a lot of value. The transportation, driver, and guide services are included, making it a hassle-free experience. Optional extras like the boat ride and guide in Ouzoud cost a bit more but are well worth it for many travelers. One reviewer noted: “The guide was excellent, and the boat trip was unmissable,” emphasizing the quality of the experience.

It’s a budget-friendly way to see a major natural attraction with the added bonus of cultural insights. The reviews consistently mention the professionalism of the driver (named Amir in some reports), and the friendliness of the local guide, Said, who is praised for his patience and photo skills.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who want a straightforward, well-organized experience of Morocco’s remarkable waterfalls. Nature lovers, photographers, and those interested in Berber culture will find plenty to enjoy. It’s also ideal for budget travelers, as it offers great value at a low price.

If you’re after a physically demanding hike or accessible for those with mobility issues, this tour might not be the best fit. But if you’re up for a scenic walk, some wildlife encounters, and a peaceful boat ride, this tour has plenty to offer.

The Sum Up

The Ouzoud Waterfalls tour from Marrakech offers an authentic taste of Morocco’s natural beauty, combined with cultural insights and fun wildlife encounters. It’s a well-balanced experience—relaxing, scenic, and educational—at a very reasonable price. The combination of stunning waterfalls, playful monkeys, and a scenic boat ride makes it a standout for anyone wanting a break from city life.

The knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and manageable walking paths make it a practical choice for most travelers. While the terrain can be uneven, packing sturdy shoes ensures you won’t miss out on the views. The opportunity to see Berber villages and learn about argan oil production adds layers of cultural discovery to this already diverse trip.

For those seeking a budget-friendly yet memorable day outside Marrakech, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s best suited for nature lovers, curious explorers, and anyone wanting a deeper connection with Morocco’s rural and natural landscapes.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your Marrakech accommodation, though pickups from hotels more than 7 km outside the city might incur an extra charge.

How long does the trip last?
The entire day typically lasts around 8 hours, with plenty of time at the falls, for the boat ride, and cultural stops.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes, sun protection like sunglasses and a hat, sunscreen, and sturdy sports shoes are recommended, especially for walking around the falls.

Are the waterfalls accessible for everyone?
While the walk around the falls is generally easy, the path from the top to the bottom can be steep and uneven, so good footwear is essential. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

Can I buy lunch there?
Lunch isn’t included but can be purchased at a local restaurant for around 10-12 USD. The restaurant offers traditional Berber dishes with great views.

Is the boat ride optional?
Yes, the boat ride is an optional extra paid locally, but many reviewers say it’s well worth the small additional fee.

Are monkeys dangerous?
The monkeys are generally playful and used to travelers, but it’s advised only to give them peanuts and avoid touching them to prevent disease transmission and protect the animals.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking in advance helps secure your spot, especially during busy seasons. You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

This day trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls combines natural wonder with cultural richness, making it a worthwhile addition to any Moroccan itinerary. Whether you’re after stunning landscapes, wildlife encounters, or simply a peaceful escape, this tour delivers on all fronts.

You can check availability for your dates here: