A Riverside Escape: The Essential Travel Guide to Ourika
- Malika
- Jul 4, 2024
- 10 min read
Updated: Jul 16
Looking for the best things to do in the Ourika Valley or highly recommended places to stay? Discover the ideal time to visit, tips for getting there and around, plus the best Ourika tours in this essential travel guide.
Carved into the High Atlas Mountains, the Ourika Valley is one of the most popular day trip destinations from Marrakech. We've visited several times during our visits to the "Red City" and soaking in the area's natural beauty is always a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the medina.
Situated in Al Haouz Province, Ourika is a picturesque rural area that's notable for its natural wonders, mild climate and traditional Amazigh culture. The name "Ourika" itself can be traced back to the Urika, one of the Amazigh tribes descended from the influential Almohad Dynasty.
The town of Ourika serves as the gateway to the valley, which stretches around 30 kilometres to the village of Setti Fatma. Several Amazigh villages dot the route, together with riverside restaurants where you can dine with your feet submerged in the flowing water.
Towering over this magnificent setting is the High Atlas massif, from which the Ourika River flows down to join the Tensift River on the outskirts of Marrakech. With its seasonal blossoms, relaxed ambiance and waterfall hiking trails, it’s easy to see why Ourika is a perennial favourite amongst locals and a growing number of in-the-know tourists.
In this Essential Travel Guide to Ourika, discover the best things to do in Ourika, as well as inspiring places to stay and the ideal time to visit.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best things to do in Ourika
Visit the Berber Ecomuseum
In the picturesque village of Tafza is this fascinating museum, which offers a unique insight into the cultural traditions of the Amazigh people. It houses an extensive collection of photographs, rugs, clothing and jewellery, as well as pottery that has long been produced in the region.
Through its curated displays, the Berber Ecomuseum explains the traditional way of life in the valley that has been sustained for generations. I particularly love the exhibits about carpet weaving and the significance of the designs.
Please note: The Berber Ecomuseum in Ourika has been closed since sustaining damage in the 2023 earthquake and a reopening has not yet been announced.
Experience the harvest at La Safranière de l’Ourika
Set amidst the stunning landscapes of the Ourika Valley is La Safranière de l’Ourika, a farm dedicated to the cultivation of one of the world’s most sought-after spices: saffron. Aptly nicknamed the "Red Gold of Morocco," the saffron grown here is renowned for its exceptional quality and unparalleled aroma.
Depending on when you visit, the manager may be around to guide you through the property, explaining the history and cultural significance of saffron. If not, there are information panels you can peruse independently before wandering over to the fields.
Either way, it's a wonderful opportunity to learn about the various stages of saffron cultivation and its medicinal properties, as well as its diverse culinary and cosmetic applications. The tour usually ends with a cup of saffron tea!
If possible, coincide your visit to La Safranière de l’Ourika with the saffron harvest, which takes place from late October to mid-November each year. During these weeks, the delicate crocus sativus bulbs bloom, revealing their precious blood-red stigmas - the source of the world's most expensive spice. If you visit outside of this period, don't expect to see any flowers!
Donations are welcome and high-quality saffron is available to purchase at the farm.
Explore the Jardin Bio-Aromatique d’Ourika
Located in the village of Elhaddad, the Jardin Bio-Aromatique d'Ourika is a "must" for to plant enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in the wonders of medicinal flora. Established in 1998, the one-hectare garden showcases the botanical diversity of the Marrakech region, with an impressive collection of nearly fifty aromatic, medicinal and ornamental plant species on display.
Guided tours (70 DH) are available through the gardens to learn about the therapeutic properties of the various plants or you can explore independently (20 DH). In my opinion, indulging in a foot bath (80 DH) infused with bath salts and essential oils is a highlight of any visit and is accompanied by herbal tea.
Workshops in everything from bread making to henna tattooing and Amazigh beauty rituals are available. Check the Jardin Bio-Aromatique d’Ourika's official website for more info. Additionally, home-cooked lunches are served overlooking the lawns and the quality is really good!
From March through June, the garden is particularly gorgeous, with its vibrant colours and fragrant blooms painting a wonderful scene against the backdrop of the High Atlas peaks.
Best things to do in Ourika
Hike from Setti Fatma to the Seven Waterfalls
Located at an elevation of 1,500 metres, Setti Fatma is a large-ish village near the southern end of the Ourika Valley. It serves as the departure point for hikes to the Seven Waterfalls that cascade down the nearby mountainsides. Fed by the flowing river that runs through the heart of Setti Fatma, these powerful falls put on an impressive display, particularly during the springtime melt.
It’s around 1.5 to 2 hours’ trek up mountain but the journey is well worth the effort. The trail is quite steep and rocky in places, requiring a good deal of clambering over uneven terrain and crossing the river at various points along the way.
Aside from the spectacular waterfalls, the trail takes in several tiny settlements before culminating in the source of the river, surrounded by the towering peaks of the High Atlas Mountains.
While you can hike to the Setti Fatma Waterfalls independently, there is little signage, although most people can find their way. Alternatively, you can negotiate with one of the guides that hang out near the parking area - just decide whether you want to visit only the first waterfall (which most people do) or continue to the others. The price should reflect this.
The further you trek, the quieter it gets, so keep this in mind if you're after a peaceful trekking experience. Heading out early in the morning will also provide a more tranquil adventure, before the day trippers arrive!
Please note: Sections of the trail to the Seven Waterfalls have been off-limits following damage caused by the 2023 earthquake. Adhere to all signage to avoid finding yourself in a dangerous situation.
Relax at a riverside restaurant
Dotted throughout the Ourika Valley are several riverside restaurants where you can relax over a mint tea or a tajine. These are places that are designed for a leisurely meal, with colourful cushions where you can kick back while listening to the tranquil sounds of the river flowing nearby.
Some have spots where you can submerge your feet in the water while you eat and let the river provide its natural therapy. In my opinion, it’s the perfect post-hike experience and most definitely one of the best things to do in Ourika!
Best things to do in Ourika
Best tours to Ourika Valley
If you're short on time, this half-day tour packs a lot into five hours, including a short guided hike, a visit to an argan oil cooperative and time to relax at a riverside restaurant.
Including return transport from Marrakech, a guided trek to the Seven Waterfalls and a riverside lunch, this private day trip to Ourika Valley is perfect for families and small groups.
This small-group tour from Marrakech is an affordable way to explore the Ourika Valley, including a guided trek, a visit to an argan oil cooperative and the option for a riverside lunch.
Ourika is one of several valleys visited on this full-day tour from Marrakech, which has absolutely glowing reviews online. Aside from guided hikes and village visits in Oukaimeden and Tahnaout, it includes a traditional breakfast AND lunch.
How to get to Ourika Valley
By car
The Ourika Valley is a popular day trip destination from Marrakech, with the journey just 40 kilometres (less than an hour’s drive). To reach Setti Fatma, it’s slightly longer (60 kilometres) and takes around 1.5 hours. Keep in mind that the mountain roads here are winding and steep in places, so be sure to drive with care.
You can find more information about driving in Morocco in my comprehensive article here. Consider renting a car in Morocco with Discover Cars, as they offer free cancellation and 24/7 support. They have a diverse selection of vehicles, from compact automatics to manual vans, to suit all kinds of travel groups and driving preferences.
By private transfer
If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can organise a private transfer to Ourika from Marrakech. Prices are fixed and you can read reviews from previous passengers for your peace of mind before booking.
By bus or share taxi
Although it may not be the most convenient choice, public transportation is available from Marrakech to Ourika. Buses and grand taxis run from Marrakech to Asni, from where you can catch another bus or grand taxi to reach Ourika. The cost of public transportation can vary from around 20 to 50 MAD, making it a budget-friendly option.
Guided tours
Several companies offer full-day guided tours from Marrakech to Ourika, including pick-up and drop-off at your Marrakech hotel. Private tours can be customised to suit your interests while small-group experiences are perfect if you're travelling on a budget. Some are "transport only", meaning you can create your own itinerary once you arrive in Ourika and hire a local guide if that's what you want.
Travel guide to Ourika
Best places to stay in Ourika
It's true that most people visit Ourika as a day trip from Marrakech and you can cover most of the valley's highlights in the space of a few hours. But if you're someone who likes to revel in natural beauty or explore a destination once the day trippers have left, then I'd highly recommend spending a night or two.
In the Ourika Valley, you'll find everything from family-friendly farmstays to contemporary hotels and budget-friendly guesthouses. For more Ourika accommodation inspiration, check out my detailed article here.
Perched on a hillside overlooking the Ourika Valley, this enchanting farm stay features colourful rooms and a restaurant serving locally sourced produce. But the true highlight of a stay at this Ourika guesthouse is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the daily workings of the farm and traditional activities such a pottery-making and artisanal bread baking.
"Magical mountain stay.” - Ryan (read more reviews here)
Best places to stay in Ourika
Recently renovated, this contemporary guesthouse is located near the village of Setti Fatma and features modern rooms with complimentary Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. There’s an outdoor swimming pool where you can refresh in the summer months and a restaurant serving Moroccan and international favourites.
“The perfect mountain retreat.” - Andrew (read more reviews here)
Best places to stay in Ourika
This luxury Ourika riad is situated in Aghmat, a historic Amazigh town renowned for its archaeological site. It really is an oasis, with exquisite tilework, carved wooden furnishings and Moroccan textiles adorning its welcoming rooms and shared areas. Meals are served on the terrace with breathtaking views of the nearby mountains or in the cosy lounge warmed by the flickering light of the fireplace.
"It totally exceeded our expectations. The pictures don't do it justice." - Sarah (read more reviews here)
Best places to stay in Ourika
Offering magnificent views across the Ourika Valley, this charming guesthouse features traditionally styled rooms with tiled floors. Meals are served on the sun-drenched terrace or in the interior dining room, which is adorned with gorgeous Amazigh rugs. The hospitality at Dar Zohra is second to none.
“An unexpected oasis of beauty and relaxation.” - Catriona (read more reviews here)
Best places to stay in Ourika
Located in the town of Aghmat, this stunning, six-bedroom villa is ideal for families or groups of friends visiting the Ourika Valley. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, it boasts a sparkling swimming pool framed by towering date palms, plus a fully-equipped kitchen kitchen and a traditional dining area.
“Outstanding stay!” - Isabelle (read more reviews here)
Best time to visit Ourika
While Ourika can be visited year-round, the peak summer months can be quite hot and crowded when travelling Moroccans are on their annual break. That being said, the valley's cool temperatures provide a welcome respite from the scorching heat of Marrakech - this a wonderful time to laze at a riverside restaurant with your feet in the flowing water.
In my opinion, the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are the perfect time to explore the Ourika Valley in near-perfect conditions. Both seasons offer comfortable temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor adventures and leisurely strolls.
In the springtime, the Ourika Valley's fruit trees ignite with blossoms and the river (fed by the melting snow of the Atlas peaks) is at its most impressive. This draws a significant influx of both Moroccan and international visitors, so book your accommodation well in advance and be prepared for crowds, particularly on weekends.
Autumn offers a more tranquil experience in the Ourika Valley, with the hiking trails slightly quieter than in the springtime. The winter months can be chilly, so bring lots of warm layers if you plan on visiting during this season.
