Ourika Valley (Vallée de l’Ourika)

A popular day trip destination from Marrakech, the Ourika Valley is often visited as part of a full-day tour of the Atlas Mountains. Combine it with a thrilling drive along the Kik Plateau and a stop at Lake Takerkoust, or take an Atlas Mountains Four Valleys tour and visit the Ourika, Oukaïmeden, Sidi Fares, and Asni valleys.

Alternatively, savor your visit on a hiking or mountain biking tour, explore the Berber village of Setti Fatma, trek to the Setti Fatma Falls, or visit in winter to enjoy the ski resort of Oukaïmeden.

• Pack sunscreen, a hat, good walking shoes, and plenty of water, especially if you plan on walking to the falls.

• The Ourika Valley is a great place to buy argan oil, and tours often include a visit to an argan oil collective.

• There are many shops, restaurants, and food vendors located in and around the Ourika Valley.

• Many of the lookout points and natural wonders of the Ourika Valley are reached by hiking, making access for wheelchair users limited.

The Ourika Valley is located about 25 miles (40 kilometers) south of Marrakech, in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains. Buses run from Marrakech to the main town of Setti Fatma in high season. You can also hire a taxi for the day or join a guided tour.

Time your visit for a Monday, when the local market (souk) of Tnin Ourika sprawls through the village and a mix of locals and tourists haggle for goods, sip sweet Moroccan mint tea, and catch up on gossip. The prettiest time to visit is in spring (February to April), when the valley is speckled with colorful wildflowers and the surrounding cherry and almond orchards are in full bloom.

For many visitors, the Ourika Valley’s principal attraction is its traditional Berber settlements. The village of Setti Fatma maintains a traditional way of life, tending to its communal saffron farm and organic herb farm, producing handicrafts to sell, and serving traditional tajines and breads in local restaurants. At the heart of the valley are the dramatic Setti Fatma falls, which flow into the Ourika River and offer a thrilling scramble for adventurous travelers.

The best times to visit the Ourika Valley (Vallée de l’Ourika) are in spring, to admire the wildflowers and when the orchards are in full bloom, or early fall to avoid the busy (and hot) summer months. Plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon as the valley is popular with day-trippers from Marrakech and can get crowded.

The easiest way to get to the Ourika Valley from Marrakech is by car—it’s about a 1-hour drive following a scenic route into the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains. If you don’t want to rent a car, you can join a tour or book a private taxi. During the high season, buses run to the town of Setti Fatma.

Most visitors to the Ourika Valley come to admire the beautiful natural landscapes of the Atlas Mountains. Top attractions include the hike to the Setti Fatma waterfalls, the Aghmat archeological site, and the Berber villages of Tafza and Setti Fatma. You can also visit an argan oil collective and saffron farm.

Yes, there are lots of options for day tours to the Ourika Valley from Marrakech, many of which include round-trip transportation. You could take a guided hiking tour through the valley, visit traditional Berber villages to learn more about local life, or explore the five different mountain valleys on a full-day tour.

Summer temperatures can be sweltering, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. If hiking, choose light, breathable clothing and good hiking shoes, plus a jacket or raincoat, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains. Finally, pack a swimsuit if you’re hoping to swim at the waterfalls.

Yes, the Ourika Valley is generally considered a safe area for tourists. It’s a popular destination for day trips from Marrakech and the local Berber people typically welcome travelers. As in other parts of Morocco, you should exercise common sense, avoid displaying valuables, and seek local advice before hiking.