Ourika Valley, how to get there?

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If you are visiting Marrakech and are seeking an intriguing day excursion outside of the city, consider going to the Ourika Valley.

Many visitors and residents love visiting Ourika Valley since it is peaceful and not nearly as hot as Marrakech.

There are several Berber communities in the valley where the Ourika River runs. Hidden behind the town of Setti Fatma lies a series of waterfalls.

One of the best things to see in the Ourika Valley is this set of waterfalls, which have refreshingly cold water.

The location of Ourika Valley

Toward the southeast of Marrakech, amid the foothills of the western High Atlas Mountains, lies the town of Ourika. You may go snowboarding in the winter, mountain climbing in the spring, and visit traditional Berber communities in the summer.

Depending on whatever route you choose, the Ourika Valley is around 30 or 40 kilometers from Marrakech and takes between 45 to 50 minutes to reach.

The Western High Atlas is unique in that it is the only location where the Barbary macaque may be found.

This is an extinct primate species of monkey. If you get to see a Barbary macaque during your vacation, consider yourself quite fortunate!

What to do in Ourika Valley?

The famed waterfalls are high on the list of activities to do in Ourika Valley. The road to the waterfalls starts behind the vibrant eateries of Setti Fatma, one of the valley’s communities.

Setti Fatma is situated in a gorge near the Ourika Valley’s southern end. Tourists who wish to eat lunch by the river or explore the seven waterfalls have made the place famous.

The first waterfall you come to on your trek to view the waterfalls is not likely to leave much of an impression on you. In either case, keep going! Each waterfall you see on your way further up the mountain is more breathtaking than the previous one. The trail has both shady and sunnier spots depending on where you are.

Keep your eyes on the peaks above you; you never know when you could see a group of hikers making their way through the trails in the adjacent mountains.

The month of August is peak tourist season in Setti Fatma, thanks to the town’s vibrant four-day market and fair.

Tourists love to see the area’s numerous Berber communities because of their rich cultural heritage. For five thousand years, North Africa has been home to the Berber people. The Berbers fled to the Atlas Mountains during the height of the Arab invasion in the 7th century. Although most Berbers are Muslims now, you may still hear some traditional Berber music and see some traditional Berber artwork in the villages.

Where to stay in Ourika Valley?

You may find a wide range of lodging options in Ourika Valley, from hotels to B&Bs to guesthouses to flats. The Auberge le Maquis is a highly sought-after lodging option. It’s a favorite among cyclists, hikers, and other travelers due to its convenient location and cozy atmosphere in a family-style building with eight rooms.

The Ourika House, Riad Cle de Sol, Dar Ikalimo Ourika, Villa La Zitoune, and many more are among the numerous locations to stay in the Ourika Valley. Some of the lodgings accept pets, while others feature restaurants and the internet.

Where to eat in Ourika Valley?

In Setti Fatma, the Cafe Restaurant Azrrabzou in an almond grove setting serves genuine Moroccan food.

Try the Kasbah Bab Ourika for a one-of-a-kind eating experience. This hotel and restaurant are located on a hilltop overlooking the valley and its olive, lemon, and orange orchards, as well as the river.

There are also amazing mountain vistas. Many of the meals are made using organic and locally farmed ingredients.

When to go to Ourika valley?

Springtime, between February and April, is one of the greatest seasons to explore the Ourika Valley. April might be wet, but cherry and almond orchards are in blossom at this time of year, and they are stunning!

Meanwhile, this time of year is ideal for seeing the numerous beautiful wildflowers that bloom around the region.

Summer in Marrakech is scorching, and a visit to Ourika Valley will provide relief from the heat. July is both the warmest and the sunniest month.

During the summer, though, the valley may get overcrowded with tourists and residents.

The coldest month is January, which is a popular season for snow skiers to visit Marrakech and experience some wonderful snow skiing.