Overview
Your tour itinerary should at the very least include one full day to explore and see the best of what the Ourika Valley has to offer. This picturesque destination is the nearest tour site from Marrakech, so travel-wise it won’t eat up your time getting here. Your itinerary should begin with a drive to the Atlas Mountains, to take in the lush greenery and sightings of the ancient Berber villages. A hike to the Ourika river is encouraged, so you can start out on foot to really experience being at the heart of this nature sanctuary. An option to ride camelback through the valley is also available to tourists looking for a different experience. A stop at the waterfalls is also a must, both for amazing photo opportunities and a chance to cool off after an exhilarating trek or ride. Cafes and restaurants are widely present in the area, and many offer a breathtaking view of the Atlas Mountains while you discover the best of Moroccan cuisine.
Highlights
- Explore the Valley of Ourika and the seven waterfalls.
- Visit Setti Fatma. This weekend destination favorite is a must-visit because of the seven famed waterfalls, beautiful streams, majestic cliffs, and lush valleys. This region has preserved their medieval agricultural traditions, something that is definitely worth a visit.
- A visit to a women’s argan oil cooperative. Witness firsthand how the world-famous argan oil is processed, as it is an insider’s peek into a significant part of Moroccan culture that has made an impact all around the world.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
With the Ourika valley and the Atlas Mountains a mere one hour travel from Marrakech by car, there is simply no reason why people on day trips from Marrakech should pass up on such a fantastic opportunity for a once-in-a-lifetime type of excursion. A tour from Marrakech is never complete without it, simply because it is a kind of cultural experience that takes you straight into the heart of old world Berber lifestyle from which the colorful culture of Morocco evolved.
There are many group tours one can join to share the experience with like-minded travelers, or perhaps a solo day tour is the perfect setup for those who relish the idea of solitary discovery and enjoyment. Whichever one you prefer, you are guaranteed to come back from your trip with the highest feeling of satisfaction.