1-Day Trip to Ourika Valley from Marrakech: Setti Fatma Waterfalls & Berber Culture (Private)
Escape Marrakech for a refreshing Atlas foothills day trip. Travel through scenic countryside and Berber villages, visit a traditional Berber home for mint tea, and reach Setti Fatma for an optional guided hike to the waterfalls. Enjoy a riverside lunch break and relaxed free time before returning to Marrakech in the afternoon.
Top highlights
- Breathtaking Atlas Mountain views and lush valley landscapes
- Drive through countryside and Berber villages in the Ourika Valley
- Visit a traditional Berber home and enjoy mint tea hospitality
- Setti Fatma village with optional guided hike to the waterfalls
- Riverside lunch break (tagine/couscous options available)
- Free time to relax by the river, take photos, and browse local stalls
Overview
Ourika Valley is one of the best easy day trips from Marrakech if you want cool mountain air, river scenery and authentic local culture. In a single day, you’ll travel into the Atlas foothills, meet a Berber family, and (optionally) hike with a licensed mountain guide to the Setti Fatma waterfalls — then return to Marrakech with plenty of time to enjoy your evening.
Itinerary (Sample)
- 08:30 pick-up from your accommodation in Marrakech
- Drive through the Atlas foothills with panoramic countryside views
- Pass fertile fields, olive groves and traditional Berber villages
- Stop at a local Berber house: mint tea + cultural exchange
- Arrive Setti Fatma: optional guided hike to the waterfalls (45–60 minutes each way, moderate)
- Lunch at a riverside restaurant (not included)
- Free time to relax by the river, take photos, or browse small shops
- Return drive to Marrakech • drop-off around 17:00 (traffic dependent)
Included & details
- Air-conditioned minivan or 4WD vehicle (fuel included)
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Marrakech
- Professional driver
- Licensed mountain hiking guide for Setti Fatma waterfalls
- Bottled water during the trip
- Flexibility to stop for photos along the way
- Soft drinks
- Lunch at the riverside restaurant
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel insurance
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, snacks, etc.)
- Private 4x4 upgrade (instead of minivan)
- Extra photo stops or short village walks (time permitting)
- Earlier pickup time in summer to avoid midday heat
Wear comfortable walking shoes (rocks can be slippery near the waterfalls). Bring sunscreen and a light jacket in cooler months. Waterfall flow is seasonal — strongest after rain and in spring.
FAQs
Yes. It’s private. We can adjust pickup time, the number of stops, and how long you spend in Setti Fatma.
It’s generally moderate (rocky steps and uneven ground). A local guide is recommended, especially if you want to reach higher cascades.
No. Lunch is not included so you can choose a riverside café or restaurant based on your preference and budget.
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a light layer, and a small day bag. In warmer months, bring a hat and extra water.
Flow depends on the season and rainfall. Spring usually has the strongest water levels; late summer can be lower.
