Plan your visit
Plan your visit
Prepare for a rocky mountain hike. Learn when to arrive, how to negotiate with guides, and what gear you need for the upper trails.
Ourika Waterfalls
Setti Fatma, Ourika Valley, Al Haouz, Morocco
GPS 31.22508, -7.67751
Open directionsGetting there
Setti Fatma is 60 to 65 kilometers south of Marrakech via the P2017.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Self-drive from Marrakech via the P2017 road to Setti Fatma. | 1 to 1.5 hours | Car rental + 10-20 MAD parking | The road narrows significantly in the valley; drive carefully and arrive early to secure parking. |
| Car: Shared grand taxi from Bab er-Rob or Moulay El Yazid mosque in Marrakech. | 1.5 hours | 30-50 MAD per person | Grand taxis only depart when all 6 passenger seats are filled. Wait times can vary. |
| Tour: Organized day trip from Marrakech in a shared or private minivan. | Full day (7-8 hours) | From 250 MAD (25 EUR) per person | Tours often include stops at Berber villages and women's argan oil cooperatives along the way. |
| Bus: ALSA line 25 suburban bus from Marrakech. | 1 hour to Tnine Ourika | approx. 10 MAD | The bus only goes as far as Tnine Ourika; you must take a local taxi the rest of the way to Setti Fatma. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
The site is open year-round. Spring (March to May) offers the highest water flow and green landscapes. Autumn (September to November) provides mild weather. Arrive before 10:30 AM to hike the lower falls before midday crowds appear.
What to bring
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Do not attempt the upper falls without hiking boots.
The trail is slippery, steep, and requires using fixed ropes.
How the day runs
Choose a pace that matches your hiking experience.
A balanced day exploring the first waterfall and relaxing in Setti Fatma.
- Depart Marrakech
Drive or take a tour 1.5 hours south to Setti Fatma.
- Arrive & Prep
Park, buy water in the souk, and walk to the guide office.
- Hike to First Fall
Walk 40 to 45 minutes up the rocky path to the lowest cascade.
- Descend
Carefully hike back down to the village base.
- Riverside Lunch
Eat tagine at a cafe set in the shallow waters of the Ourika River.
- Return Trip
Head back to Marrakech, stopping at an argan cooperative if on a tour.
For fit, experienced hikers wanting to reach all seven waterfalls.
- Early Departure
Leave Marrakech early to beat the heat and crowds.
- Hire a Guide
Negotiate a fee (100-200 MAD) at the official guide office.
- Begin Ascent
Pass the first fall and start the steep rock scramble.
- Upper Falls
Use fixed ropes and narrow ledges to reach cascades 2 through 7.
- Mountain Views
Rest at the high panoramic viewpoints over the valley.
- Descent & Meal
Return to the village for lunch and tea before heading back.
Packing for the trail
You must wear sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes with strong grip. Climbing the rocky trail in flip-flops or sandals is highly dangerous. Bring a small backpack to keep your hands free while scrambling. Pack bottled water, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket for sudden mountain weather changes.
Carry cash in Moroccan Dirhams. You will need it for parking, hiring local guides, and paying at the riverside cafes. There are no trash bins on the upper sections of the trail, so bring a small bag to carry out your waste.
Easiest way to do it
Ourika Valley Day Trip From Marrakech Day Trip To Ourika Valley
7 h 4.9 (86)
- Stop at a local argan oil cooperative.
- Scenic drive through the Ourika Valley Atlas Mountains.
- Guided visit to a Women's Cooperative in Morocco.
- Pickup and drop-off from your Marrakech accommodation.
From$5per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
What should I wear to hike Setti Fatma?
Wear actual hiking shoes or grippy trainers. You need a small backpack, a hat, and a light rain jacket. Bring warm layers for the cool morning mountain air.
When is the best time of year to visit Ourika Valley?
March to May is the best time. The snowmelt makes the water flow heavily, and the landscapes are green. September to November is also excellent for mild hiking temperatures.
Can you swim in the Ourika waterfalls?
You can wade in the lower pools. However, avoid swimming in the upper pools if directed by locals. Strong currents and safety concerns make swimming dangerous in the higher cascades.