Marrakech , Morocco

Excursion Ourika valley Atlas mountains

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About this experience

Embark on a memorable 7-hour journey to the breathtaking Ourika Valley in the Atlas Mountains from Marrakech! Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through picturesque landscapes. The first stop is a traditional Berber village, where you'll experience local life and explore a Berber house. Next, visit an argan oil cooperative to learn about the oil-making process and shop for unique, handmade products.

The highlight of the trip is Setti Fatma, home to the stunning Seven Cascades waterfalls. Enjoy a short hike through lush valleys and capture incredible photos of the natural beauty surrounding you.

Afterward, indulge in a delicious Moroccan lunch, savoring dishes like tagine and couscous while enjoying the peaceful mountain views.

Finally, return to Marrakech, arriving by 4:30 PM. This excursion offers the perfect mix of culture, adventure, and scenic beauty in just one unforgettable day!

Available options

Excursion Ourika valley Atlas mountains

Pickup included

What's included

Transportation Insurance

Air-conditioned vehicle

Guide (English, Spanish, French, German, Italian)

Detailed itinerary

Location: Pick-up from your hotel or riad in the Marrakech Medina. Our driver will meet you at the designated location to start the day’s adventure.

Enjoy a scenic drive through the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, passing through lush green landscapes and small villages. Along the way, you can take photos of the beautiful surrounding landscapes.

Arrive at a traditional Berber village where you can take a walk and explore the unique architecture of the Berber houses. You will also learn about the customs and traditions of the Berber people. The guide will explain how the Berber community lives, their agricultural practices, and their culture. Feel free to interact with locals and learn more about their daily life.

Stop 4

We’ll stop at an argan oil cooperative. Here, you will learn about the production process of the world-renowned argan oil. Women from local communities demonstrate how the oil is extracted from the nuts, and you’ll have the opportunity to purchase high-quality, handmade products such as argan oil, cosmetics, and culinary items.

Continue your drive towards Setti Fatma, a picturesque village in the heart of the Atlas Mountains. As you get closer to the village, the terrain becomes more rugged and scenic. You’ll be surrounded by mountains, valleys, and lush greenery.

Arrive at Setti Fatma, the starting point for a visit to the famous Seven Cascades waterfalls. The guide will take you on a short hike through the valley, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. The walk takes around 45 minutes each way, depending on your pace and stops for photos. When you reach the waterfalls, you’ll have time to explore, take photos, or even relax by the natural pools.

After the hike, enjoy a delicious traditional Moroccan lunch. The restaurant will serve classic dishes such as tagine (slow-cooked stew), couscous, and pastilla (a savory pastry), along with fresh mint tea. It’s the perfect way to relax and recharge before continuing the journey.

After a satisfying meal, we will begin our drive back to Marrakech. Enjoy the last views of the Atlas Mountains as we head back to the city.

Drop-off at your hotel or riad in Marrakech's Medina. You will be dropped off at your original pick-up location.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Audio guide

AR EN FR

Guide guide

AR EN FR

Written guide

AR EN FR

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The transportation will be in a minibus, with an French and English-speaking driver for a smooth experience, when you arrived to the meeting point,

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.