Marrakech: Ouzoud Waterfalls Trip, Guide & Boat + Lunch

A Guide to the Marrakech: Ouzoud Waterfalls Trip, Guide & Boat + Lunch

If you’re looking for a day away from the bustling streets of Marrakech, the Ouzoud Waterfalls trip might just be your perfect escape. This full-day adventure promises natural beauty, cultural insights, and some fun surprises along the way. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed reviews and its popularity suggest it’s a genuine favorite among travelers.

What we love about this experience is the chance to witness one of North Africa’s most spectacular natural sites. The scenic journey through Moroccan countryside, the chance to see playful Barbary macaques, and the opportunity to enjoy a boat ride beneath cascading waterfalls make it a truly memorable outing. Plus, the inclusion of a traditional Berber lunch with stunning views adds an authentic touch.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the travel time, which totals around six hours including transfer and breaks. While it’s manageable for most, those with tight schedules or very young children might find the long bus ride a bit tiring. Still, if you appreciate natural scenery, local culture, and a bit of adventure, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

This trip is especially suited for travelers seeking a relaxed but active day outdoors, those interested in Moroccan culture, or anyone wanting a break from urban sightseeing. If you love hiking, wildlife spotting, and scenic vistas, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Full-day adventure with scenic drive from Marrakech to Ouzoud
• Guided hike through olive groves with stunning viewpoints
• Boat ride beneath the waterfalls for close-up views
• Wildlife spotting including playful Barbary macaques
• Authentic Berber lunch with waterfall vistas
• Travel time around 6 hours total, including transfers and breaks

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

Early Morning Pickup and Scenic Drive

The tour kicks off with a hotel or riad pickup around 8:00 AM, with the journey to Ouzoud taking approximately three hours. We love that the drive weaves through the Atlas Mountains, offering beautiful views of rolling hills, lush olive groves, and traditional Berber villages. It’s a peaceful start that sets the tone for the day.

Arrival at the Waterfalls and Guided Hike

Once you arrive, prepare to be wowed by the 110-meter cascades smashing into pools below. The local guide will lead you along winding trails shaded by olive trees, stopping at viewpoints for photos and to admire the scenery. Several reviewers praised guides like Imad, Yassin, and Khalid for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience more engaging and informative.

Wildlife and Cultural Highlights

During the hike, you’ll get to see playful Barbary macaques, known for their curiosity and cheeky nature. One reviewer noted how “the guide did a very good job” of pointing out the monkeys and sharing interesting facts. You can watch them leap through the trees or lounge lazily, adding a lively element to the natural beauty.

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Visiting an Argan Oil Cooperative

A special touch is the visit to an argan oil cooperative, where you’ll learn traditional extraction methods. This is a great chance to see local craftsmanship and maybe pick up some authentic Moroccan products. Many travelers find these visits both educational and a nice break from hiking.

Lunch with a View

After soaking in the scenery, it’s time for a Berber lunch at a restaurant overlooking the falls. Expect regional specialties served in a tranquil setting, often with fresh orange juice from a nearby stall. Several reviews mentioned how delicious and hearty the food is, with one traveler noting the “amazing” experience of dining with such a spectacular backdrop.

Boat Ride and Final Views

In the afternoon, you’ll hop onto a traditional wooden boat for a short, exhilarating ride close to the waterfalls. Feel the mist on your face and snap photos from a different perspective—this is often cited as a highlight. The boat ride offers a refreshing break and a chance to see the waterfalls from underneath, making it a memorable experience.

Climbing Out and Return to Marrakech

After the boat, you’ll trek back up some stone steps, enjoying the last panoramic views of the falls. The journey back to Marrakech takes around three hours, with a quick stop for restroom breaks or refreshments. Travelers often remark on the comfortable transportation, with air conditioning and Wi-Fi, making the long drive more pleasant.

What’s Included and What to Know

For just $18 per person, this tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned van, and a local guide fluent in multiple languages including English, French, and Arabic. The price also covers the boat ride and lunch, making it a very good value considering the full day’s activities.

The tour is flexible—reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund. It’s suitable for most travelers who can handle moderate hiking and walking on uneven trails. However, it’s not wheelchair accessible, and very elderly travelers over 95 might want to consider this.

What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes suitable for trail hiking
• Sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen for protection
• Camera to capture the stunning views
• Cash for small purchases or tips

Timing and Logistics

The day starts at 8:30 AM, with pickup around 8:00 AM, and returns around 6:00-7:00 PM. The tour includes about 4 hours at Ouzoud—enough time to hike, take photos, enjoy lunch, and relax.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the friendly guides, especially highlighting individuals like Anas, Mustapha, and Mohamed, for their helpfulness and genuine enthusiasm. One commenter shared how a guide helped with a young child, making the trip smoother and more enjoyable.

The scenery is often described as breathtaking, with many noting the viewpoints from different angles of the falls. The boat ride is a hit, giving an up-close look at the cascading water and the mist that cools you down.

On the downside, there was one negative review mentioning poor food hygiene—specifically flies around the lunch and subsequent illness. This highlights the importance of choosing clean, reputable dining spots if possible, or bringing snacks. Still, many found the food delicious and a true taste of Berber hospitality, describing the lunch as “regional specialties” served with a smile.

Final Thoughts on This Tour

This day trip offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty, cultural insights, and fun activities, all packaged into a well-organized package. It’s a great choice for those who want to see a major Moroccan highlight without the hassle of planning, and who appreciate guided experiences with local knowledge.

The value for money is notable, with the inclusion of transportation, guides, boat ride, and lunch all for just $18. The long travel time is offset by the scenic drive and the variety of activities, making it a full and satisfying day.

If you’re after a combination of adventure, culture, and natural spectacle, this trip is likely to meet and even exceed your expectations. It’s especially ideal for first-time visitors who want to tick off one of Morocco’s top sights with a hassle-free, guided option.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from your hotel or riad in Marrakech, with details sent via WhatsApp and email the day before.

What is the best time to start the tour?
The tour begins at 8:30 AM, with pickup around 8:00 AM, allowing you to make the most of the day.

How long is the drive to Ouzoud?
It’s approximately three hours each way, making for a total of about six hours including breaks.

What should I bring for the hike?
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for moderate hiking, and bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera.

Are the boat rides included?
Yes, the boat ride beneath the waterfalls is part of the tour if you select that option.

What’s the menu like for lunch?
Typically, the lunch features regional Berber specialties served at a restaurant overlooking the waterfalls, with options for fresh orange juice.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most children who can handle the walking and hiking will enjoy it, especially with guides attentive to their needs. Very elderly or those with mobility issues may find the hike challenging.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there Wi-Fi on the transport?
Most vehicles have Wi-Fi, but this isn’t guaranteed for all.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight guides like Khalid, Anas, and Mohamed for their friendliness, knowledge, and helpfulness.

In essence, the Marrakech: Ouzoud Waterfalls trip is a fantastic way to enjoy Morocco’s natural beauty with a bit of adventure and culture woven in. It’s a well-rounded, affordable experience that combines scenic hiking, wildlife, local life, and spectacular views—perfect for travelers looking to make their Morocco trip truly memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: