Marrakech’s most visited and popular area is the Ourika Valley.
Ourika Valley is located in the Moroccan High Atlas, along the Ourika River. It is approximately 30km from Marrakech. The majority of its inhabitants are Berbers speaking Shilha. It is located close to Marrakech and is considered a well-preserved valley. This is due to its traditional mountain lifestyle. The Ourika Valley is a popular day trip from Marrakech. This tour will take you to the foothills and valleys of the majestic High Atlas. This is a landscape unlike any other in Morocco.
Things to do in Ourika Valley
These are the main attractions of the area:
Setti-Fatma
Setti-Fatma, a small village, is where tourists usually depart to visit the waterfalls of the Ourika Valley. When you reach the hamlet, it will not be difficult to find an English-speaking guide.
Tnine-de-l’Ourika
It is a small village (or douar), with little architectural interest. It is the center of the weekly traditional souk (or souk) which takes place every Monday in Arabic.
Ourika Valley Waterfalls
This is the best part of the trip if you enjoy hiking and the countryside. Although it is easy to reach the first waterfall, you will need to be able and able to climb the six others. You can take a dip in the Ourika river if the weather is good. However, it is very cold.
Traditional Berber house
This visit was supposed to give visitors a chance to experience traditional Berber life and a typical Berber family home. You will soon realize that the experience is now a stage for tourists. The father of the family will usually welcome you to his home and make you a mint tea. On your way out, he may also try to sell you some handicrafts.
Traditional Markets
These are the most popular markets in the region. The Aghbalou Market (Thursdays) and Ourika Market (Mondays) are both open. You can also reach the region by climbing the mountains. There are interesting bazaars in Asni and Tahanaout, which you can visit on Tuesdays.
Ourika Valley’s natural history
This valley has been home to many interesting plants since the late 19th century. This valley is home to the only known location in the High Atlas Range that the endangered Barbary macaque, Macaca Sylvanus, is found. It is also home to a few other disjunctive populations in Algeria or Gibraltar. Ourika Valley is a popular day trip from Marrakech because of its numerous waterfalls and other attractions. Berbers live in the region and still maintain a traditional way. It is close to Marrakech but it is still relatively unspoiled.
How to get to Ourika Valley
Book a day trip
With Introducing Marrakech. Day tours with English-speaking chauffeurs are available for EUR 20 per person. Hotel pick-up is also included. Private tours are also available at very affordable prices. Click here to book one of our day tours .
Rent a car
It is difficult to drive in Morocco, especially if you are driving through mountains. However, some of the roads are not maintained well. We recommend getting a GPS if this is your best option.
Hire a taxi to take you around the city for the entire day
If you’re good at haggling, you can rent a taxi for the entire day for EUR 80. Remember that taxi drivers are not fluent in English.
