High Atlas Mountains day trip with lunch from Marrakech

Marrakech , Morocco

High Atlas Mountains day trip with lunch from Marrakech

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6h - 7h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

A day trip into the High Atlas Mountains is a must-do for nature lovers interested in venturing beyond Marrakech. If you don’t have time for a multi-day excursion, this guided tour takes you directly into the Ourika Valley with a trek to its waterfalls. You’ll learn about its Berber population and marvel at the magnificent scenery, from craggy snow-capped peaks to fertile valleys. Lunch and convenient hotel pickup are included.

Available options

High Atlas Mountains day trip with lunch from Marrakech

Pickup included

What's included

Pick up & drop off

transportation

Lunch

Professional Driver-Guide

What you'll see

Around 08:30 am, the tour starts from Marrakesh, straight to Ourika Valley, a splendid area between the Atlas Mountains, famous for its fortified houses built of clay and straw, inhabited by the Berber population who have existed in Morocco for thousands of years, and have maintained their customs and traditions intact over time.

Our first stop will be an extraordinary beautiful panoramic view of the green fields of vegetables and cereals, forage, and - of course - olives, which is a typical product of the valley, some panoramic views deserve to be on your camera, then for interested people, there will be a stop at the cooperative of Argan oil to get a sufficient explanation about how those berber women, do to hand-crack the Argan nuts and squeeze them between two special stones, a technique they've used for centuries.

Afterwards, drive to the Setti Fatma waterfalls, a tour with a local mountain guide that lasts approximately 90 minutes. Back from this nice trek, we will drive off-road through the mountains, for a chance to admire the beauty of the Atlas nature with its different colours, and numerous villages where clay-color homes are still standing after many centuries;

Then head to a small village called Sidi Fares for lunch in a traditional Berber house that looks out on the High Atlas Toubkal mountain, with a height of 4167 meters, also known as the highest peak in North Africa. Then enjoy a delicious taste of the real Berber gastronomy: the menu includes a Berber Tagine, couscous and fruits, then come back to Marrakesh via the Asni valley and Tahannaout village.

What's not included

Personal items

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

About Marrakech

Marrakech is a vibrant city known for its rich history, bustling souks, and stunning architecture. It offers a blend of traditional Moroccan culture and modern amenities, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Jemaa El-Fnaa

Jemaa El-Fnaa is the heart of Marrakech, a bustling square filled with food stalls, entertainers, and souvenir vendors. It's a must-visit for its vibrant atmosphere and cultural experiences.

Cultural 2-3 hours Free (food and souvenirs cost extra)

Koutoubia Mosque

The Koutoubia Mosque is one of the most iconic landmarks in Marrakech. Its minaret is a symbol of the city and can be seen from many parts of the medina.

Historical 1 hour Free (non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque)

Bahia Palace

The Bahia Palace is a stunning example of Moroccan architecture, featuring intricate tile work, lush gardens, and beautiful courtyards. It offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the past.

Historical 1-2 hours 70 MAD

Majorelle Garden

The Majorelle Garden is a beautiful botanical garden designed by French painter Jacques Majorelle. It features a variety of plants, a striking blue villa, and a museum dedicated to Yves Saint Laurent.

Nature 2-3 hours 70 MAD

Saadian Tombs

The Saadian Tombs are a collection of mausoleums dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. They were discovered in 1917 and offer a fascinating look into the history of Marrakech.

Historical 1 hour 70 MAD

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tagine

A slow-cooked stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices, named after the earthenware pot it's cooked in.

Main course Vegetarian options available

Couscous

A dish made with steamed semolina grains, often served with vegetables and meat.

Main course Vegetarian options available

Pastilla

A savory-sweet pie made with layers of filo pastry, filled with spiced pigeon or chicken, almonds, and powdered sugar.

Main course Contains nuts

Mint Tea

A traditional Moroccan tea made with green tea and fresh mint leaves, sweetened with sugar.

Drink Contains caffeine

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Atlas Mountains Surfing in Essaouira Quad biking in the desert Spa treatments Yoga retreats Relaxing in a hammam Exploring the medina Visiting museums

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)

The best time to visit Marrakech is during spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the city. The temperatures are mild, and the crowds are manageable.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: French, Berber languages
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Moroccan Dirham (MAD)

Time Zone

GMT+0

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Marrakech is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.
• Use reputable taxi services and agree on the fare before starting your journey.
• Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas.

Getting there

By air

Menara International Airport • 4 km from city center

By train

Marrakech Railway Station

By bus

Marrakech Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common form of public transport in Marrakech. They are affordable and cover most areas of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Careem, Heetch

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Medina Gueliz Hivernage

Day trips

Atlas Mountains

60 km from Marrakech • Full day

The Atlas Mountains offer stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and traditional Berber villages. It's a great escape from the city for nature lovers.

Ourika Valley

30 km from Marrakech • Half day to full day

The Ourika Valley is known for its beautiful landscapes, traditional Berber houses, and waterfalls. It's a popular destination for day trips from Marrakech.

Essaouira

180 km from Marrakech • Full day to overnight

Essaouira is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic medina, and vibrant arts scene. It's a popular destination for surfing, windsurfing, and relaxation.

Festivals

Marrakech Popular Arts Festival • Every July Marrakech International Film Festival • Every November/December Ramadan • Dates vary (Islamic calendar)

Pro tips

Hire a local guide for a more immersive and informative experience.
Learn a few basic phrases in Arabic or French to enhance your interactions with locals.
Visit the medina early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
Bargain politely when shopping in the souks, as prices are often negotiable.
Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience, but choose stalls with high turnover.