In short
- Entry to the waterfall trail costs 0 MAD.
- Parking in Setti Fatma costs 10 to 20 MAD.
- Official local guides charge 100 to 200 MAD.
In this article
While you save money on entry tickets, you still need to budget for the day. Bringing Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) in cash is essential. You will use it to pay for parking, optional guides, transport, and food at the riverside cafes.
Is there an entry fee for Ourika Waterfalls?
No, the entrance to the waterfall trail is completely free to the public.
There are no ticket booths or gates at the start of the hike. You can walk from Setti Fatma to the first waterfall without paying any admission fees.
How much does parking cost in Setti Fatma?
Parking in the village of Setti Fatma costs around 10 to 20 MAD.
If you drive a rental car from Marrakech via the P2017 road, you will need to park in the village. Arrive early to secure a spot, as the road narrows significantly.
Do I need to pay for a guide?
Hiring a guide is optional, and official local guides cost approximately 100 to 200 MAD.
You do not have to hire a guide for the first waterfall. However, reaching cascades 2 through 7 requires scrambling over rocks and using fixed ropes. Local rules advise against attempting the upper falls without a guide. Negotiate and agree on your guide fees at the official guide office near the wooden river bridge before starting.
How much does transport from Marrakech cost?
Shared grand taxis cost 30 to 50 MAD per seat, while bus tickets are about 10 MAD.
Grand taxis leave from Bab er-Rob or Moulay El Yazid mosque and take 1.5 hours. They only depart when all six seats are full. The ALSA line 25 bus costs roughly 10 MAD, but it only goes to Tnine Ourika. You must pay for a local taxi to reach Setti Fatma from there.
How much do organized tours to Ourika cost?
Organized day trips from Marrakech start from 250 MAD (25 EUR) per person.
Booking a tour covers your transport and often includes stops at Berber villages or women's argan oil cooperatives. These group tours usually run for 7 to 8 hours. Prices change depending on the booking platform and whether you choose a shared or private minivan.
What else should I budget for?
Bring cash for bottled water, riverside cafes, and small shops.
Buy bottled water at the Village Souk Area before your hike. Prices rise at the small stalls along the trail. After the hike, many visitors buy tagine and mint tea at the riverside cafes. Make sure you carry enough cash, as cards are rarely accepted.
Questions travellers ask
Can I pay for a guide with a credit card?
No. You need cash in Moroccan Dirhams to pay the official local guides at the office.
Are the upper waterfalls free too?
Yes, access to all seven waterfalls is free. However, you will likely need to pay 100 to 200 MAD for a guide to safely climb the upper sections.
How much are the cafes by the river?
Specific meal prices vary. Bring enough cash to cover your food and drinks, as they do not take cards.
