The Ouzoud Waterfalls in Morocco are a series of cascades that drop into a gorge near the town of Azilal, and they are one of the most popular day trips from Marrakech. This Ouzoud Waterfalls guide covers the height, how to get there, the hike down to the pools, the boat ride, the monkeys, what to eat and when to go, so you can plan a day trip from Marrakech. It pairs well with a visit to Marrakech and fits into 7 days in Morocco.
Ouzoud Waterfalls at a glance
Wikipedia describes the Ouzoud Waterfalls as a collective name for several waterfalls in Ouzoud, Azilal Province, dropping into the gorge of the El Abid River. It gives the total height as 110 m, with three drops, and says the falls lie about 36 km from Azilal and about 150 km from Marrakesh. Barceló gives roughly 160 km, and says there are seven falls, so counts differ by source. Barceló calls it the tallest waterfall in Morocco, which we could not verify.
Things to do at the Ouzoud Waterfalls
Hike down to the Ouzoud Waterfalls
Third Eye Traveller says the top viewpoint is about a 5 minute walk from the parking area, and the walk down to the river and falls takes about 20 to 30 minutes on a loop route. Barceló says there are over 500 steps down to the lower falls, while Third Eye Traveller says the exit route has more than 600 steps through shops and restaurants. Wear trainers or sturdy sandals, because paths can turn muddy and slippery after rain.
Take the boat ride at the Ouzoud Waterfalls
Third Eye Traveller says the boat ride costs a fixed 20 MAD per person, takes about 15 minutes round trip with around eight people per boat, and gets you wet from the spray. That guide is from 2025, so confirm the price. The photo shows decorated boats below the falls.
Swim and picnic near the Ouzoud Waterfalls
Barceló says bathing is allowed in the backwaters and under the falls, that the water is cold because it is snowmelt, and that its brownish colour comes from clay soil and not pollution. Third Eye Traveller says the water is normally turquoise and turns muddy after rain, so colour varies with conditions. For a bigger Atlas adventure, see climbing Toubkal.
Meet the Barbary macaques at the Ouzoud Waterfalls
Both guides mention wild Barbary macaques. Third Eye Traveller says they are tame but still wild and advises not feeding or touching them, and Barceló says they approach visitors looking for food and that the species is endangered locally. Admire them from a distance. You can read about the Barbary macaque on Wikipedia.
Eat lunch with a view of the Ouzoud Waterfalls
Third Eye Traveller reports orange juice at the bottom for about 15 MAD and a fixed-price lunch of about 130 MAD with tagine, couscous or skewers, bread, salad and mint tea. Those prices are from a 2025 guide, so treat them as a rough guide. For dishes to try, read our Moroccan food guide. Bring cash; see cash in Morocco and tipping in Morocco.
How to get to the Ouzoud Waterfalls from Marrakech
Barceló says about 2.5 hours by car, and Third Eye Traveller gives two to three hours, which is vague, so allow for variation. Barceló warns the road is narrow and winding with few signs, and advises a navigation app. Options are a rental car, a taxi or a tour; Third Eye Traveller lists a private or shared return taxi at about 1,000 to 1,500 MAD, which is a 2025 estimate. Compare modes in train versus bus versus rental car in Morocco, and see how a longer road trip feels in the drive from Marrakech to the Sahara.
The best time to visit the Ouzoud Waterfalls
Barceló says the falls are popular on hot summer days, and recommends an air conditioned taxi then. Compare Morocco in summer, Morocco in November and Morocco in winter, or the full best time to visit Morocco. Bring sun protection and waterproofs, per Third Eye Traveller. Our what to wear in Morocco for women guide helps with clothing.
Tips for visiting the Ouzoud Waterfalls
Third Eye Traveller says entry is free but parking is paid, that guides are not needed to find the route, and that you should watch for scammers asking for entry money. It also advises against donkeys and so-called Berber taxis unless you need them for accessibility, citing poor treatment of the animals, and advises carrying small notes and tissues. Read our solo female travel guide for general safety tips, and learn a few Darija phrases.
The Ouzoud Waterfalls and the rest of your Morocco trip
Combine the falls with the medina: read about Jemaa el-Fna and the El Badi Palace. For more natural highlights, see the natural wonders of Morocco. Choosing between a day in the Atlas and the desert? Compare Agafay desert and Merzouga. Many travelers stay in a riad; see riad versus hotel, and for a romantic trip see the best places in Morocco for couples. Plan your time with how many days you need in Morocco.
Ouzoud Waterfalls FAQ
How tall are the Ouzoud Waterfalls?
About 110 m in total, according to Wikipedia.
How far are the Ouzoud Waterfalls from Marrakech?
About 150 km according to Wikipedia and roughly 160 km according to Barceló, which is about two to three hours by road.
Can you swim at the Ouzoud Waterfalls?
Barceló says bathing is allowed in the backwaters and under the falls, and warns the water is cold.
Is it free to visit the Ouzoud Waterfalls?
Entry is free, but you pay for parking, according to Third Eye Traveller. The boat ride and food cost extra.
Are there monkeys at the Ouzoud Waterfalls?
Yes, wild Barbary macaques live there. Do not feed or touch them.
Want the Ouzoud Waterfalls on your Morocco route? Message us your dates and we will plan it with you.
Message us on WhatsAppNavigate Morocco is a team from the Sahara desert who work as a family. We will be glad to help you plan your Ouzoud Waterfalls day and the rest of your route, from the Atlas to the dunes.
More Navigate Morocco guides: Natural wonders of Morocco, Jemaa el-Fna Marrakech, Is Marrakech worth visiting?, Train vs bus vs rental car in Morocco.
Want a second Atlas day trip? See our Ourika Valley Morocco guide.
