Ouzoud Waterfalls from Marrakech: How to Go, Price & Tips
Updated October 3, 2026 · By the Sun Sky Camp team
The Ouzoud Waterfalls are one of the most impressive natural sights in Morocco: cascades about 110 metres high falling into green pools, surrounded by olive trees, red cliffs and small terrace cafés. They lie about 150 km north-east of Marrakech, in the foothills of the Middle Atlas, which makes them a full but easy day trip.
Here is what you need to know before you go, from our local guides.
How far is Ouzoud from Marrakech?
About 150 km. The drive takes around 3 hours each way through farmland and small villages, usually with a coffee stop on the way. Plan to leave Marrakech in the morning and to be back in the early evening.
How to get to the Ouzoud Waterfalls
- Guided day trip: transport from Marrakech, a local guide at the falls, the boat ride and, depending on the option, lunch, from €12. The easiest way, especially if you do not drive in Morocco.
- Private driver: more flexible timing, with a price per vehicle.
- Public transport: buses run from Marrakech to Azilal, then shared taxis to Ouzoud. It is cheap but slow, and hard to fit into a return trip on the same day.
What to see and do at the falls
- The viewpoints at the top, for the first view of the whole cascade.
- The walk down to the bottom, on paths and steps through olive groves and past small cafés.
- A boat ride on the pool at the foot of the falls, close enough to feel the spray.
- The Barbary macaques that live in the trees around the falls. They are wild animals: watch them, but do not feed them.
- Lunch on a terrace facing the cascades: the cafés around the falls serve tagines and grilled dishes.
Best time to visit
The falls flow all year. Spring (March to May) is the best season: the water is strongest after the winter rains and the countryside is green. Summer is hot and busy, especially at weekends, but the shade and the spray at the bottom keep it pleasant. In late summer and autumn the flow can be lower.
Try to arrive before midday to enjoy the paths before the busiest hours.
How much does it cost?
Access to the falls area is free. You pay for transport, a guide if you want one, the boat ride and your meal. Our guided day trip from Marrakech starts from €12 per person, with free pickup from 9 meeting points in Marrakech and payment on the day.
Practical tips
- Wear shoes with good grip: the steps and paths near the water can be slippery.
- Bring cash for drinks, tips and souvenirs, as card payment is rare in the cafés.
- Keep food in your bag and out of sight of the monkeys.
- Take a light jacket in winter and spring: it is cooler near the water.
- Use sun cream and a hat for the walk back up, which is steep.
Prefer a shorter day? The Ourika Valley is about one hour from Marrakech, with waterfalls and lunch by the river. See all our day trips from Marrakech.
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Frequently asked questions
How long is the drive from Marrakech to Ouzoud?
About 3 hours each way for around 150 km, so the trip takes a full day.
Is the walk at Ouzoud difficult?
The paths are short but include many steps, and the climb back up from the bottom is steep. It is fine for most people with normal fitness: take your time and wear good shoes.
Are the monkeys at Ouzoud dangerous?
The Barbary macaques are used to visitors and usually calm, but they are wild. Do not feed or touch them, and keep your bags closed.
Is lunch included in the Ouzoud tour?
Our guided tour has options with and without lunch. The tour page shows exactly what each option includes.
Is Ouzoud worth a day trip from Marrakech?
Yes, if you like nature: the height of the falls, the green setting and the boat ride make it one of the most popular day trips from Marrakech. For a shorter day, the Ourika Valley is about one hour away.