Our Ouzoud Waterfalls day trip from Marrakech takes you to the highest falls in North Africa, with olive groves, Barbary macaques and natural pools at the bottom.
Ouzoud sits in the foothills of the Middle Atlas Mountains, in a lush valley carved by the El-Abid River. The falls drop over 110 meters in three tiers through a landscape of olive groves, fig trees, and red rock cliffs. Barbary macaque monkeys live freely in the surrounding trees and the mist from the falls creates small rainbows on sunny days that are genuinely spectacular.
Ouzoud is about 150 km northeast of Marrakech. The drive takes around two and a half to three hours each way through farmland and the Middle Atlas foothills. We leave in the morning and reach the falls before the midday crowds. You get three to four hours at the site to walk down to the base, have lunch and relax by the water, then return to Marrakech by early evening.
The main trail down to the pools is a series of dirt paths and steps, about 20 to 30 minutes each way. Local guides wait at the top and can lead you around, but the paths are easy to follow on your own too.
The Ouzoud Falls drop about 110 meters in several tiers into the gorge of the El-Abid River.
The High Atlas is cooler than Marrakech all year. From December to March, expect snow on the peaks and cold mornings. In summer, the mountains are a welcome escape from the city heat.
This private Ouzoud Waterfalls day trip from Marrakech starts from $95 per person, based on two travelers sharing, and the price per person drops for larger groups. Every itinerary can be adjusted to your dates, pace and hotel preferences. Send us your dates on WhatsApp or through the enquiry form below for a free quote.
Departure from Marrakech in the morning, heading northeast through the Haouz Plain before the road begins to climb into the foothills of the Middle Atlas. The drive passes through the town of Azilal and a series of smaller Berber villages before arriving at Ouzoud. The valley reveals itself gradually, the sound of the falls audible before you can see them and the air noticeably cooler and more humid as you approach.
The main path down to the falls winds through terraced olive groves, past small stalls selling local honey and fresh juice, and alongside the river as it builds toward the edge. Barbary macaque monkeys are present along the path and often approach curious visitors. The view from the clifftop above the falls before you descend is worth stopping for.
At the base, three tiers of water crash into natural pools popular for swimming in the warmer months. Lunch is taken at one of the traditional restaurants built directly into the cliff face overlooking the falls. After lunch, time is free to explore the valley further, take a short boat trip on the river, or simply sit and watch the falls. Return drive to Marrakech in the late afternoon.
Meals included: Lunch
Can I swim at Ouzoud?
Yes, swimming in the natural pools at the base of the falls is possible and popular from spring through early autumn. Water levels and conditions vary by season so your guide will advise on the day.
How strenuous is the walk?
The path down to the base of the falls is moderate and involves some uneven terrain and steps. It is manageable for most fitness levels but not suitable for travelers with significant mobility limitations. The walk down takes about 20 to 30 minutes and the return uphill slightly longer.
Are there monkeys at Ouzoud?
Yes. Wild Barbary macaque monkeys live in the olive groves around the falls and are frequently visible along the path and near the base. They are used to human presence but should not be fed as it disrupts their natural behavior.
What is the best time of year to visit Ouzoud?
The falls are most powerful in spring (March to May) when winter rainfall has fed the river. Summer is the most popular time for swimming. The falls can be reduced in a dry late summer.
Is this trip suitable for children?
Yes. The Ouzoud Waterfalls day trip is one of the most family-friendly day trips from Marrakech. Children particularly enjoy the monkeys, the swimming pools, and the walk through the olive groves.
