Escape the busy streets of Marrakech and spend a day discovering the true heart of the High Atlas Mountains. This unforgettable excursion takes you into the lush Ourika Valley, where snow-capped peaks give way to terraced fields, walnut groves, and traditional Berber villages built into the mountainside.
Wander through a local village and see a rural way of life that has changed little for generations, then browse a cooperative selling authentic argan oil, a true taste of the region. From there, follow a scenic trail through rocks and wooden footbridges toward the famous Setti Fatma waterfalls, where cool mountain water cascades down through seven dramatic falls.
Whether you choose a gentle stroll to the first waterfall or a more adventurous hike further up, the reward is the same: fresh mountain air, incredible views, and a welcome break from the desert heat of the city. Round off your day with a relaxed lunch on a riverside terrace before returning to Marrakech.
Guests are picked up directly from their hotel/riad when accessible by vehicle. For riads located in narrow medina alleyways not reachable by car, a nearby meeting point (landmark, square, or accessible street corner) will be arranged instead and confirmed via SMS/WhatsApp the day before, along with the driver's name and contact number. Travelers are asked to provide clear directions near their riad at booking, and to be ready at the confirmed location 10–15 minutes before pickup time.
The road leaves Marrakech heading southeast and climbs gradually into the foothills of the High Atlas, following the Ourika River. The landscape quickly shifts from dry plains to green terraced fields, with snow-capped Atlas peaks visible in the background for much of the year.
Stop at a typical village in the valley, with its mud-brick (pisé) houses built into the mountainside. Terraced fields, irrigated by traditional channels, grow walnuts, olives, and vegetables. A chance to see a rural way of life that has changed little over generations.
If the tour falls on a souk day, stop at the weekly local market. Otherwise, visit a women's argan oil cooperative, a signature product of the region, where visitors can see the traditional extraction process.
The village at the entrance to the waterfall hike, known for its annual moussem (traditional gathering). It's also the starting point for the hiking trails and home to most of the riverside terrace restaurants.
A series of seven successive waterfalls in the mountains, reached via a hiking trail through rocks and small wooden bridges. The first waterfall is reached in about 30-40 minutes of moderate walking; reaching the further falls requires more effort and steeper terrain. Most visitors stop at the 1st or 2nd waterfall.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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