Ouzoud Waterfalls, Morocco: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go
The Ouzoud Waterfalls are one of Morocco’s most breathtaking natural wonders — and one of those places that truly lives up to the hype. As the second tallest waterfall in Africa, cascading over 100 meters into lush green pools below, Ouzoud is among the most visited and photographed natural sites in Morocco. Located in the Middle Atlas region, the waterfalls feel like a refreshing escape from the heat and hustle of Marrakesh. Think thundering water, rainbows dancing in the mist, olive groves, red-earth cliffs, and the occasional Barbary monkey peeking through the trees. Whether you’re visiting Morocco for the first time or returning for more, Ouzoud is an unforgettable day trip.
1/10/20265 min read
When Is the Best Time to Visit the Ouzoud Waterfalls?
The Ouzoud Waterfalls can be visited year-round, but each season offers a slightly different experience.
Summer (June–August)
Summer is the busiest time of year, but it’s also the best season for swimming. The pools at the bottom of the falls are warm enough to enjoy, and cooling off in the water feels incredible on a hot Moroccan day.
Winter & Early Spring (December–March)
During winter and early spring, the waterfalls are at their most powerful, thanks to higher water levels. There are also far fewer tourists, making it a more peaceful visit. While it’s usually too cold to swim, this is arguably the best time to visit if you prefer dramatic scenery and quieter trails.
How to Get to the Ouzoud Waterfalls from Marrakesh (Quick Guide)
There are three main ways to reach the Ouzoud Waterfalls from Marrakesh, depending on your travel style and time.
1. Organized Day Tour (Easiest & Most Popular)
Booking a guided day tour is the most convenient option. Tours typically cost around 275 MAD ($20–25 USD) and include round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, hotel or riad pickup, and free time at the falls. Some tours also include a local guide, though lunch is usually extra. This option saves time and eliminates the hassle of navigating public transport.
👉 [Ouzoud Waterfalls Day Tour from Marrakesh – GetYourGuide]
2. Drive Yourself (Most Flexible)
Driving from Marrakesh takes about 2.5 hours each way (157 km). Renting a car gives you complete freedom to explore at your own pace, spend more time swimming, and visit viewpoints without being on a group schedule. The drive is scenic and enjoyable if you’re comfortable driving in Morocco.
3. Public Transport / Shared Taxi (Least Convenient)
You can take a shared taxi from Bab Doukala to Azilal, then continue to the waterfalls. While doable, this option involves multiple transfers and can be time-consuming, making it less ideal for a day trip.
What to Expect When You Arrive at the Ouzoud Waterfalls
Once you arrive, you’ll set off on foot along well-maintained walking paths that lead through olive groves, red cliffs, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the cascades.
Along the way, we stopped at:
Olive fields
A local Amazigh (Berber) village
A visit featuring Amazia, a Moroccan natural cosmetics brand rooted in Amazigh traditions, using 100% organic ingredients inspired by ancient beauty rituals from the Ouzoud Mountains
These cultural stops add depth to the experience beyond just the waterfalls.
What Can You Do at the Ouzoud Waterfalls?
1. Swimming at the Bottom of the Falls
In summer, swimming is one of the biggest highlights. Several natural pools form at the base of the waterfalls, and the water is refreshing without being too cold.
If the current is strong near the falls, you can swim farther downstream in calmer sections of the river, away from the crowds.
2. Take a Small Boat Ride
At the first pool below the falls, local boatmen offer short boat rides for about $2.25USD
They’ll take you extremely close to the cascading water — sometimes very close.
👉 Tip:
Bring:
A rain jacket
A water-resistant phone or camera
You will get wet, but it’s part of the fun.
3. See the Barbary Monkeys
One of the most unique aspects of Ouzoud is the presence of wild Barbary monkeys.
You’ll see them playing in trees, lounging by the river, and moving freely around the site. They are larger and less friendly than the monkeys in Gibraltar, so admire them from a distance.
⚠️ Important:
Please do not feed the monkeys — keeping them wild is essential for their safety and the ecosystem.
Lunch Near the Waterfalls
Most tours stop for lunch around 3:00 PM at a local restaurant overlooking the river.
Typical lunch costs around €10 (cash) and usually includes:
Fresh bread
Starters
Tagine or chicken skewers
Mint tea
Fruit for dessert
The setting — with the sound of water in the background — makes it especially enjoyable.
Best Viewpoints for Photos at Ouzoud Waterfalls
There are many beautiful viewpoints around the Ouzoud Waterfalls, but if you’re looking for a spot that truly captures the scale, power, and beauty of the cascades, there is one viewpoint I highly recommend.
This spot is located near the Burj des Cascades Hotel, perched high above the falls. From here, you get a sweeping view of the entire waterfall as it plunges into the valley below. On sunny days, you’ll often catch a rainbow forming in the mist, making this one of the best places for photos at Ouzoud.
It’s the perfect viewpoint to appreciate just how massive and dramatic the waterfalls are — and a must-stop for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Is Ouzoud Waterfalls Worth Visiting?
Ouzoud Waterfalls is one of those places that reminds you just how diverse and beautiful Morocco truly is. From the powerful cascades and scenic viewpoints to swimming pools, boat rides, and wild Barbary monkeys, this day trip offers a perfect mix of nature, adventure, and culture. Whether you visit independently or on a guided tour from Marrakesh, Ouzoud is absolutely worth the journey — and a destination you won’t soon forget.
