Ouzoud is the most impressive waterfall in Morocco and one of the few day trips from Marrakech where the destination, not the drive, is the main event. Here is what the day actually involves.
Quick answer
- Distance from Marrakech: about 150 km
- Drive time: roughly 2.5 to 3 hours each way
- Height of the falls: around 110 metres, dropping in stages
- Typical day: morning departure, back in Marrakech in the evening
- Main draw: the walk down to the base, the boat ride, and the Barbary macaques
Getting there
Ouzoud lies north-east of Marrakech in the Middle Atlas foothills. The road climbs gradually out of the Haouz plain, and most of the drive is scenic rather than dramatic. Our Ouzoud Waterfalls day trip leaves Marrakech in the morning and returns the same evening.
What you actually do there
The walk down
From the car park a path leads down through olive groves to the base of the falls. It is a proper descent rather than a stroll — uneven in places, with steps — and you have to climb back up afterwards. It is manageable for most people at a steady pace, but it is worth knowing before you come if you have knee or mobility problems.
The boat ride
Small boats run out towards the base of the main cascade. It is short, a few minutes, and you will get some spray. It is optional and paid separately in most cases.
The monkeys
Ouzoud has a resident population of Barbary macaques, usually along the wooded stretch of the path. They are wild animals and completely used to people, which is a bad combination if you start offering food. Do not feed them and do not try to touch them.
When to go
Spring is the obvious answer: snowmelt and winter rain mean the falls are at their strongest, and the surrounding hills are green. Summer is hotter and the flow is weaker, but the pools at the bottom become appealing for exactly that reason. Autumn is a good compromise. Whenever you come, going early means the path is cooler and the viewpoints are emptier.
What to bring
- Shoes with grip — the path gets slippery near the bottom
- Water, and a hat in summer
- A layer for the morning drive, which can be cool
- Cash for the boat, drinks and tips
Is it worth a full day?
If you have four or five days in Marrakech, yes. If you only have two, a closer trip like the Ourika Valley gives you mountains and water with far less time in the car. Ouzoud earns the longer drive because nothing else near Marrakech looks like it.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Ouzoud?
There are pools at the base of the falls and people do swim in summer. Conditions change with the season and the flow, so take local advice on the day rather than assuming.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, with the caveat that the descent and climb back are real walking. Younger children usually manage it fine; the monkeys tend to be the highlight.
Can the trip be private?
Yes. The day trip runs as a shared departure or privately for your group, which also lets you set your own departure time.
Planning your day
If you would rather not organise the driver, the timing and the route yourself, we run this as a full day from Marrakech — see the Ouzoud day trip, or browse all our Marrakech day trips and Morocco tours.
