Marrakech , Morocco

Private Atlas Mountains Day Trip

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(101 reviews)

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

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About this experience

For all lovers of nature, fresh air and adventure.. for travelers who are looking for a thrilling and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech.. this private Day Trip will let you discover the High Atlas Mountains, their authentic unspoilt Berber villages and one the most kind and easy-to-approach people you'll ever met. Welcome on this stress-free journey to the 'real' Morocco. With us, you'll avoid the touristy spots, you'll go inside a Berber house and enjoy lunch with locals, you'll be able to reconnect with yourself in front of mesmerizing and breathtaking sceneries, and also take epic photos with awesome panoramic views! You'll learn everything you need to know about the famous Moroccan organic Argan oil, create your own pottery... In short, get ready to be amazed!!

Note: One Life Trips only works with genuinely passionate tour guides & meticulously selected local partners to deliver the most delightful and unique travel experiences.

Available options

Private Day Trip

Pickup included

What's included

Professional Driver & Local Expert / Ambassador

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Lunch (Moroccan salad + main Tajine + mint tea)

Air-conditioned vehicle (incl. insurance) & Round-trip transportation

Local Berber Tour Guide to help you walk through the wateralls

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The scenic drive to Ourika is breathtaking! On this mountainous road, you'll get to see the majestic Atlas peaks and pass by authentic Berber villages in several valleys: Tafza, Aghbalou, Oulmes, ... offering magnificent views and a rich variety of mesmerizing landscapes to admire.

After getting in the mood for adventure and exploration, we'll stop at the colorfully painted Berber village of Setti Fatma, neatly nestled in a canyon beneath the High Atlas mountains and famous for its series of seven waterfalls. We manage to come there a little bit earlier, in order to avoid the mass tourism crowds and be able to enjoy some peace and quiet, in front of the beautiful panoramic views of this area!

You'll be able to enjoy a nice hike to the waterfalls with a local guide, that we'll hire at no extra cost for you, and who will help you walk through them. You'll also walk along the Ourika river, so please remember to wear comfortable shoes!

Stop 3

Now that you were able to take some epic shots with awesome backgrounds, or just be in the moment and reconnect with yourself; and after a stop at a women's organic Argan oil cooperative to learn about the health benefits of Morocco's most precious natural gift.. it's time for a proper mouthwatering lunch!

To avoid tourist traps and overpriced restaurants, you're going to meet and have lunch with genuine locals in a Berber family house: a fresh Moroccan salad, the main meal (a scrumptious, slowly-cooked, authentic vegetables & meat Berber Tajine) and fresh season fruits. Homemade and hearty, wholesome and healthy!

And for your belly to be filled with joy, you'll also be offered some Moroccan tea with a local pastry!

On your way back to Marrakech, if you wish to supplement your experience, you can also visit a traditional handicraft pottery workshop or/and a local Berber store displaying traditional carpets woven in the High Atlas mountains.

Note: At One Life Trips, we have decided to be 100% transparent about all our services. Thus, we'd like to inform you that if you decide to buy some products during this day trip, we may receive a sales commission. This keeps us attractive to the best tour guides & local partners, so we can meticulously select genuine, helpful, non-pushy people to work with!

What's not included

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

AR EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.6

18 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

83 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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.