Of all the day trips from Marrakech, the Ouzoud Waterfalls are the favorite of nature lovers. Water falls around 110 m in several cascades into a red-rock gorge, surrounded by olive groves, mills and wild monkeys. Here is everything you need to know before you go.
Where are the Ouzoud Waterfalls?
Ouzoud lies in the Middle Atlas, in the province of Azilal, about 150 km north-east of Marrakech. The drive takes around 2.5 to 3 hours and crosses rural landscapes with photo stops along the way. Its name comes from the Amazigh word for olive, a reminder of the old olive mills still turning near the falls.
What to see and do
- The panoramic viewpoints at the top, with rainbows forming in the spray on sunny days.
- The trail to the bottom, lined with small cafes and craft stalls.
- The boat ride at the foot of the falls, a fun way to get close to the cascades.
- The Barbary macaques, an endangered species living freely around the falls. Please do not feed them.
- Lunch with a view in one of the terrace restaurants (tagine with fresh river views).
Best time to visit
The falls flow all year. In spring (March to May) the volume is at its highest and the countryside is green. In summer the shaded gorge is a refreshing break from the Marrakech heat. Weekends and holidays are busier with Moroccan families, so weekdays are quieter.
What to bring
- Good walking shoes: the steps can be slippery.
- Water, sunscreen and a hat.
- A light change of clothes if you take the boat ride.
- Cash for lunch and small purchases.
Visit Ouzoud with hotel pick-up, a professional driver and a boat tour included.
See the tour details or message us on WhatsApp +212 771 979 097 / contact@indreamstravelmorocco.com for a free quote.
Other day trips you will love
Combine your stay with the Ourika Valley, the Agafay Desert or the coastal town of Essaouira. See all our excursions from Marrakech.
Can I go to Ouzoud without a tour?
It is possible by bus or shared taxi via Azilal, but connections are slow and often require changes, which leaves little time at the falls. With a driver you leave from your hotel, stop at viewpoints on the way and enjoy several hours at the waterfalls before returning to Marrakech in the evening.
A typical day
- Morning: pick-up from your hotel or riad in Marrakech and drive north-east through the countryside.
- Late morning: arrival at Ouzoud, viewpoints and the walk down the trail.
- Lunch: in a restaurant overlooking the falls.
- Afternoon: boat ride, monkeys and free time, then the drive back.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high are the Ouzoud Waterfalls?
The main falls drop around 110 m, making them the highest in Morocco.
Can you swim at Ouzoud?
Swimming is possible in some pools downstream in summer, but be careful of currents and follow local advice.
Is the Ouzoud day trip suitable for children?
Yes, children love the monkeys and the boat ride. Just watch them on the steep and sometimes slippery paths.