On our fourth stop in Marrakech, we visited the waterfall located northeast of the city—Ouzoud Falls. We booked a full-day tour on GetYourGuide (around a dozen pounds per person). We met at 8 a.m. in the old town (Medina). If you are staying in a riad inside the old city, they will check whether the car can enter. If not, they will email you the day before with a nearby meeting point—usually just a short walk away. Hotel pickups in the city are even more convenient. After picking up everyone (about an 8-person group), we started the journey uphill. The drive takes about 2.5 hours in total: roughly one hour driving, a 20-minute toilet break, then another hour and a half. When we arrived, a guide took us hiking down the mountain to see the waterfall, take photos, and even go on a boat ride close to the falls. Around 1:30 p.m. we had lunch, then went up to the top of the mountain to feed monkeys—brave visitors can hold peanuts and even let monkeys climb onto their shoulders for photos. After that, we returned to Marrakech around 6–7 p.m. Overall, it was a very enjoyable full-day trip, especially suitable for those who like in-depth travel experiences and want to enjoy Morocco’s natural scenery.
Ouzoud Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Ouzoud Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Ouzoud Falls famous?
Ouzoud Falls is Morocco's highest waterfall and one of North Africa's most spectacular, drawing visitors for its dramatic 110-meter drop in a lush green canyon. The site is also famous for its resident population of wild Barbary macaques that inhabit the surrounding olive groves and cliffs.
Can you swim at Ouzoud Falls?
Yes — swimming is possible in the pools at the base of the falls. The water can be cold and currents strong. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Ouzoud Falls?
Unknown — please check the official website. Pets are generally uncommon at Moroccan tourist sites. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Ouzoud Falls free? Do you need a permit?
No official park entry fee, but local guides often approach visitors and parking attendants may charge a small fee. Tips for guides are customary. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Ouzoud Falls?
Parking is available near the top of the falls in the village area. Parking may be paid (small fee collected by local attendants) and can be crowded during peak seasons. The walk from parking to the falls viewpoint is short. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Ouzoud Falls?
About 1–2 km of trails descending from the village to the base of the falls via stone pathways and stairs. The hike is one-way down, with a return climb. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Ouzoud Falls hike difficulty
Moderate — the trail involves descending and ascending hundreds of uneven stone steps and rocky paths with some steep sections, can be slippery when wet. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Ouzoud Falls?
Spring (March–May) for highest water flow from winter/spring rains and comfortable temperatures, or autumn (September–November) to avoid summer heat. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Ouzoud Falls
From the parking area in Ouzoud village, follow the main path down toward the falls. Stone steps and pathways descend through olive groves with viewpoints along the way. The trail splits into routes on either side of the gorge; you can descend to the base pools via steps, cross on small boats if available, and loop back up the opposite side. Local guides are available to show less-obvious trails behind and below the falls.
Attractions near Ouzoud Falls
- •Bin el-Ouidane Lake — large reservoir about 50 km south, popular for boating and fishing
- •Azilal town — regional center with markets, cafes, about 20 km northeast of the falls
- •Barbary macaque colonies — wild monkeys frequently seen around the falls and trails
- •Cascade d'Akchour — another waterfall system in the Rif Mountains, several hours north
- •Ouzoud olive groves — traditional terraced olive orchards in the valley surrounding the falls
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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