Things to do in Ouzoud

Inland from the Essaouira coast, beyond Marrakech in the Middle Atlas, the Ouzoud Waterfalls drop more than 100 metres in a triple cascade — the tallest in Morocco and one of the country's great natural sights. Travellers based on the coast usually pair them with Marrakech, the gateway city. Here is what the falls and the gorge below them offer.

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6 experiences

The best of Ouzoud

01Nature

The main cascade

The Ouzoud falls tumble in stages for over 100 metres into a green gorge of the Oued el-Abid. Mist, rainbows and the sheer drop make the viewpoints along the rim the headline sight, especially in spring full flow.

02Hiking

Walking down to the pools

A path of switchbacks descends through olive groves and small cafés to the base, where the water collects in pools at the foot of the cascade. The climb back up is the main effort of the visit.

03Wildlife

Barbary macaques

Wild Barbary macaques live in the trees around the falls and are often seen along the trails. They are habituated but still wild, so watch your belongings and don't feed them.

04Activity

Boat rides at the base

Small wooden rafts ferry visitors close to the foot of the falls for the spray and the rainbows. A short, simple way to feel the scale of the water from below.

05Break

Cafés on the rim

Terraced cafés cling to the gorge edge with tables looking straight at the cascade, an easy spot for a tagine and mint tea with one of Morocco's best views.

06Landscape

The olive country & old mills

The area is dotted with olive groves and traditional water mills that gave 'Ouzoud' its name, the local word linked to olives. The green, watered landscape is a striking change from the arid plains.

Frequently asked

How far are the Ouzoud Waterfalls from Marrakech?

The Ouzoud Waterfalls are about 150 kilometres northeast of Marrakech in the Middle Atlas, roughly a two and a half to three-hour drive each way. They are a popular full-day trip from the city.

Can you visit Ouzoud from Essaouira?

Not easily in a day. Essaouira to Marrakech alone is two and a half to three hours, and Ouzoud is a further two and a half to three hours beyond. Most travellers visit Ouzoud from a Marrakech base rather than directly from the coast.

Are the Ouzoud Waterfalls worth it?

Yes. At over 100 metres they are the tallest in Morocco, set in a green gorge with rainbows, walking trails, wild Barbary macaques and clifftop cafés. They make one of the best nature day trips from Marrakech.

When is the best time to visit Ouzoud?

Spring brings the fullest flow from snowmelt and the greenest landscape, while autumn is pleasant and quieter. Summer is hot but the pools and spray offer relief; go early to beat the midday crowds and heat.

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