Excursion To Ourika Valley

Nestled in the Moroccan High Atlas, the Ourika Valley stands as an ideal destination for a captivating day trip, just a stone's throw away from Marrakech. Embark on a journey through the Atlas Mountains, traversing breathtaking landscapes adorned with vast green meadows and authentic Berber villages dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries.

As you venture into the heart of the Ourika Valley, immerse yourself in the charm of a relatively preserved region, both in its natural beauty and its adherence to the traditional mountain way of life. The valley unfolds as a sanctuary, offering a glimpse into the pristine nature and the enduring cultural practices of the Berber communities.

The Ourika Valley is not merely a destination; it's an exploration of a timeless landscape, where the rhythm of life echoes through the undulating hills and the ancient architecture tells tales of centuries past. Whether you seek the serenity of green meadows or the authenticity of historic villages, the Ourika Valley invites you to experience a harmonious blend of nature and tradition, making it an enriching escape from the bustling energy of Marrakech.

Highlights :

• Discover the magnificent landscapes of the Ourika Valley, in the heart of the Great Atlas.

• Visit a Berber family in their home.

• Visit the Berber weekly market (market days: Monday and Friday).

• Enjoy the seven waterfalls of Setti Fatma with a mountain guide.

• Visit a cooperative of women producing argan oil.

• Lunch in a traditional restaurant in Setti Fatma in front of the river.

Planing :

Your full-day excursion to Ourika Valley will start at 9:00 AM with a drive across the Houz Plains, and you will stop at the local ladies Argan Oil Cooperative to see how this liquid gold is extracted and some cosmetic fine products are made.

From here, we will continue to Tnin Ourika, one of the largest Berber Souks in the area, where all the villagers from the Ourika Valley come once a week to trade and buy their goods.

From here, we will follow the Ourika river, driving next to the stream up to the Berber village of Setti Fatma, where most of the locals in Marrakech escape the summer heat and spend a day under the shades of the walnut trees.

For those who would like to explore the valley on foot, local hiking guides are available for hire to walk you to some stunning cascades and back. If you fancy a lazy day, relax at one of the cafés on the riverbank and enjoy the rest of the day listening to the sound of the stream with the High Atlas Mountains as a backdrop.

Local cafés are available for a light lunch and can accommodate all budgets.

Drive back to Marrakech late in the afternoon.