Visit Morocco’s most spectacular waterfalls on this unforgettable day trip from Marrakech. The Cascades d’Ouzoud plunge 110 meters in three dramatic tiers surrounded by lush olive groves and red cliffs — making them the tallest and most beautiful waterfalls in North Africa. Along with stunning natural scenery, you’ll spot wild Barbary macaque monkeys, take an optional boat ride beneath the falls, and enjoy a traditional Berber lunch overlooking the cascades.
This Ouzoud Waterfalls Day Trip packs an incredible variety of experiences into just one day:
Departure: 8:30 AM from your Marrakech hotel/riad
Morning: Drive northeast from Marrakech through the Tadla agricultural plateau, passing through Berber villages, olive groves, and wheat fields. The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours and offers a window into rural Moroccan life rarely seen by tourists.
Arrival at Ouzoud: Around 11:00 AM, arrive at the Cascades d’Ouzoud. Descend the well-maintained trails through ancient olive groves to reach the viewing platforms.
As you approach, the roar of the water grows louder and the mist begins to cool the air. Watch the three tiers of waterfalls thunder down 110 meters of red cliff face, creating rainbows in the mist. Keep your eyes open for the cheeky Barbary macaque monkeys that live in the trees around the falls — they’re curious and often approach visitors.
Boat ride (optional): Take a small traditional boat across the pool at the base of the falls — getting up close to the thundering cascade is an incredible experience.
Lunch: Enjoy a leisurely Berber lunch at one of the terraced restaurants overlooking the falls — tagine, couscous, brochettes, and fresh mint tea while watching the water cascade below you.
Afternoon: Walk along the riverbank and explore the lower gorge. Visit a traditional olive oil mill powered by a centuries-old waterwheel. If the weather is warm, take a swim in the refreshing natural pools at the base of the falls.
Departure from Ouzoud: Around 3:30 PM.
Arrival: Back in Marrakech by approximately 6:30 PM.
See the full route of our Marrakech → Ouzoud Waterfalls → Marrakech on the map below:
Route: Marrakech → Ourika Valley → Setti Fatma Waterfalls → Marrakech
Total distance: ~330 km round trip
