Excursion to the Ourika Valley
The Setti Fatma waterfalls and Berber villages, an hour from the riad
An hour from the medina, the Ourika Valley is the first real breath of fresh air in the Atlas. Earthen villages clinging to the mountainside, a river running down between walnut trees, and at the end of the road, the Setti Fatma waterfalls.
If you only have one day to get out of Marrakech, this is the ideal excursion.
What you'll see
Berber houses
We stop in a village in the valley to step inside a traditional house. Rammed-earth walls, cool rooms, family life: a lovely glimpse of life in the mountains.
Pottery
A craftsman shows you how he throws and fires the clay, as has been done here for generations. You can buy on the spot, with no obligation.
The Setti Fatma waterfalls
Setti Fatma is the last village at the end of the road. Above it, seven waterfalls follow one another up the mountain. The first is easy to reach on foot, along the river. The next ones require good shoes and a bit of stamina.
How the day works
- In the morning : departure from the riad, at the time agreed with you when you book. Your driver waits for you two streets from the door, where cars can get to.
- The road : about 65 km, a little over an hour's drive. The plain quickly gives way to the first mountain villages.
- On the way : visit to the Berber house and pottery demonstration.
- Setti Fatma : walk to the waterfalls, then lunch at your own expense by the river.
- Late afternoon : back to the riad.
Prices and what's included
800 DH for 1 to 3 people. 1000 DH for 4 to 6 people. The price is for the group, not per person.
Included : the private driver and the air-conditioned vehicle, there and back.
Not included : lunch (at your own expense), the local guide if you want to go beyond the first waterfall, shopping and tips.
Book at least 48 hours in advance. After that, the full price of the excursion is due, even if you cancel.
Our tips
Go on a weekday if you can
At weekends and during school holidays, many Marrakech families head up to the valley to escape the heat. The waterfalls are more pleasant when there are fewer people.
Wear good shoes
Even for the first waterfall, the path goes over rocks. Closed trainers are enough. Sandals are not.
Bring a light jumper
It is often 10 to 15 degrees cooler than in Marrakech. In summer it's a real treat; in winter you need to wrap up.
At lunch, try the grilled trout
The little restaurants by the water serve it with a tajine or a salad. You eat with your feet almost in the river.
Take some small change
For tea, small purchases and the local guide if you go further up.
On Mondays, there's the souk
In Tnine Ourika, at the entrance to the valley, the weekly market is held on Mondays. If your excursion falls on that day, ask your driver to stop there. It's possible, just arrange it with him.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to be fit?
No. The Berber house, the pottery and the first waterfall are accessible to everyone. Only the higher waterfalls require a good level of fitness.
Can we bring children?
Yes, it's an outing families love. For the little ones, stay at the first waterfall and keep a close eye on them near the water.
What is the best season?
Spring and autumn, for the mild weather and the colours. In summer, the valley is a refuge from the Marrakech heat. In winter, the peaks are sometimes snow-capped, which is beautiful, but dress warmly.
How do I book?
Write to us with the date you'd like and the number of people. We organise everything with our partners and agree on the departure time with you. Book at least 48 hours in advance. After that, the full price of the excursion is due, even if you cancel.
Can I take part if I'm not staying at the riad?
No. Our excursions are reserved for Riad Malika guests.
Fancy more time in the mountains?
If you love the Atlas, stay there for a few nights. Our Domaine Malika is in Ouirgane, in the High Atlas, an hour from Marrakech. Guided hikes, Berber villages, a pool heated all year round. Many of our guests combine a few nights at the riad and a few nights at the Domaine.
Book your day in the Ourika Valley
Give us your date and the number of people. We'll take care of the rest.
Photo: David Broad, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons