Rising 110 metres from the red canyon walls of the Middle Atlas foothills, the Ouzoud Waterfalls (Cascades d’Ouzoud) are Morocco’s most spectacular natural wonder — and arguably the single best day trip you can take from Marrakech.
Every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors make the 2.5-hour journey northeast from Marrakech to stand at the edge of this thundering triple-pronged cascade. In this guide, we cover everything you need to know before you go.
Where Are the Ouzoud Waterfalls?
The waterfalls are located near the village of Ouzoud in the province of Azilal, approximately 150 kilometres northeast of Marrakech. The drive takes around 2.5 hours via the N8 highway through the Tamesloht and El Kelaa des Sraghna plains.
What to Expect at Ouzoud
The Falls Themselves
Three separate streams converge and drop 110 metres over stepped limestone shelves into a wide, turquoise pool at the base. The mist from the falls creates permanent rainbows on sunny mornings — and the roar of the water is audible from more than a kilometre away.
The Barbary Macaques
One of the most unexpected delights of Ouzoud is its population of wild Barbary macaques — the only wild primates in Morocco. They live in the olive trees above the falls and descend to interact with visitors. Guides will sometimes offer you fruit to attract them, but it is best to let them approach naturally.
Swimming at the Base
Between May and September, swimming in the natural pools at the base of the falls is one of the most refreshing experiences in Morocco. The water is cool and clear, and several rocky ledges create natural diving spots.
The Canyon Walk
A series of zig-zag trails descends through olive groves and fig trees to the canyon floor. Local guides (available at the top of the falls) can lead you through hidden viewpoints and past several smaller cascades upstream.
The Boat Ride
Local boatmen offer short rowing boat rides to the foot of the main falls for around 10 MAD per person — an extraordinary perspective that photographs beautifully.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March–May): Peak flow after winter rains — the falls are at their most powerful and the canyon is intensely green. Ideal.
- Summer (June–September): Warm enough to swim, though July and August can be busy and flows are lower.
- Autumn (October–November): Quiet, pleasant weather, and still good water levels after the first autumn rains.
- Winter (December–February): Cold but photogenic — snow sometimes caps the surrounding hills.
We recommend arriving before 10am to beat the crowds and catch the morning rainbow in the mist.
What to Bring
- Swimming costume and a small towel (April–September)
- Sturdy sandals or trail shoes for the canyon path
- Sunscreen and a hat — the canyon reflects intense heat in summer
- Small denomination dirham coins (10–20 MAD) for the boat ride and local stalls
- A waterproof phone case — the mist reaches surprisingly far
How to Get There from Marrakech
By Guided Day Trip (Recommended)
The easiest and most comfortable option is to join a guided day trip from Marrakech. Marrakech City Travel offers shared and private excursions departing at 7:30am, returning by 7pm. Your guide handles navigation, parking, and introduces you to local families and hidden viewpoints most visitors miss.
By Shared Grand Taxi
Shared taxis depart from Bab Doukkala in Marrakech to Azilal, where you change for Ouzoud. Budget around 3–4 hours of travel time each way.
By Private Car
If you rent a car, the route is straightforward. Allow 2.5 hours each way and leave early to secure a parking space near the falls entrance.
Book Your Ouzoud Waterfalls Tour
Marrakech City Travel is a licensed tour operator with 4.8/5 across 2,600+ reviews. Our Ouzoud day trip includes hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, and free 24-hour cancellation.
0 Comment