Quick answer: visiting the Ouzoud Waterfalls from Marrakech takes a full day. The falls are in Azilal Province, about 150 km north-east of Marrakech, and drop roughly 110 m in three tiers into a river gorge. A footpath leads down to the base, and you’re likely to see Barbary macaques, which are wild but used to being fed by visitors. If you want waterfalls with a much shorter drive, the Ourika Valley, about 30 km away, is the easier alternative.
Ouzoud at a glance
- Where: Azilal Province, about 150 km north-east of Marrakech
- Height: about 110 m in total, in three tiers; the longest single drop is about 75 m
- The gorge: the falls empty into the gorge of the El-Abid River
- Wildlife: Barbary macaques live around the falls. They’re wild, but used to food from tourists, so keep your distance and don’t feed them
- The name: Ouzoud comes from a Berber word meaning “the act of grinding grain”
What to expect at the falls
- Viewpoints at the top, then a footpath down to the base of the falls. Wear shoes with grip; paths near water can be slippery.
- Lunch with a view: there are terrace restaurants overlooking the falls. Meals aren’t included in transport-only trips, so carry some cash.
- Local guides at the site are separate from your driver: on our trips the driver isn’t a tour guide, and site guides aren’t included.
How to get to the Ouzoud Waterfalls from Marrakech
- Private day trip: your own car and driver, your own start time and stops. Our Ouzoud Waterfalls day trip includes pickup and drop-off at your accommodation; meals, entry tickets and site guides aren’t included. See the trip page for current timings.
- Group tour: cheaper, on a fixed schedule with other travellers.
Compare it with our other private day trips from Marrakech.
Ouzoud or the Ourika Valley?
| Ouzoud Waterfalls | Ourika Valley | |
|---|---|---|
| Distance from Marrakech | About 150 km | About 30 km |
| The falls | One big three-tier cascade, about 110 m | Waterfalls reached on foot from Setti Fatma |
| The day | A long day with more driving | A shorter, easier day |
| Best for | Seeing one big, dramatic waterfall | Mountains, villages and an easy walk |
| Our private trip | Ouzoud day trip | Atlas Mountains & Ourika Valley |
In short: go to Ouzoud for the waterfall itself; go to Ourika for an easy mountain day. More in our guide to the Ourika Valley from Marrakech.
Tips for your visit
- Start early. It’s a long drive each way, and an early start gives you more time at the falls.
- Carry cash for lunch and drinks.
- Mind the macaques. Keep food out of sight, and don’t feed them.
- With children: the full day in the car is the main consideration; Ourika, much closer, is an easier option for younger children.
FAQ
How far are the Ouzoud Waterfalls from Marrakech?
About 150 km north-east of Marrakech, so allow a full day for the round trip.
Is Ouzoud worth it?
If you want to see a big, dramatic waterfall, yes: a 110 m three-tier cascade into a river gorge and a popular destination. If you’d rather spend less time driving, the Ourika Valley is much closer.
Can I walk to the bottom of the falls?
Yes. A footpath leads down to the base. Wear shoes with grip.
Are there monkeys at Ouzoud?
Yes. Barbary macaques live around the falls. They’re wild but used to tourists’ food. Please don’t feed them.
Is a guide included on a private day trip?
No. On our day trips the driver isn’t a tour guide, and local guides at the site aren’t included.
Ready to see the falls? Book our private Ouzoud Waterfalls day trip, or ask us on WhatsApp.