Marrakesh: Ourika Waterfalls, Atlas Mountains, Guide + Lunch

A2: A day trip to the Ourika Valley usually lasts between 6 to 8 hours, including travel time to and from Marrakech. The drive itself is about 1 to 1.5 hours each way, depending on traffic and road conditions.

A3: Absolutely! The Ourika Valley offers a refreshing escape from the bustling city of Marrakech. It’s highly recommended for those seeking nature, cultural immersion with Berber communities, scenic views, and the chance to hike to waterfalls.

A4: Key attractions include:

• Setti Fatma: A small village that serves as the starting point for treks to the Ourika Valley waterfalls.

• Ourika Valley Waterfalls: A series of seven cascades. The hike to the first waterfall is relatively easy, while reaching the others requires more effort and sturdy shoes.

• Traditional Berber houses: Opportunities to see and learn about the traditional way of life of the Amazigh (Berber) people. Some tours include a visit to a local family’s house for mint tea.

• Traditional Markets (Souks): If your trip coincides, you might be able to visit local markets like the Ourika Market (Mondays) or Aghbalou Market (Thursdays).

• Argan Oil Cooperatives: Many tours include a stop at a cooperative where you can see how argan oil is produced by local women.

A5: Wear comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots with good grip, as the terrain can be uneven and sometimes slippery, especially near the waterfalls. Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly between Marrakech and the valley, even dropping considerably at higher altitudes. Lightweight, modest clothing is generally recommended. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also advisable. If you plan to swim in the natural pools (which are often very cold), bring swimwear and a change of clothes.

A6: Yes, you can swim in the natural pools at the base of the waterfalls or in the Ourika River. Be aware that the water is typically very cold, even in summer.

A7: Yes, the Ourika Valley day trip is generally suitable for families, though consider the difficulty of the waterfall hike if you have very young children or those with mobility issues. Many tours offer private transport and guided walks at a relaxed pace.

A8:

• Comfortable walking shoes/hiking boots

• Layered clothing

• Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

• Water bottle

• Cash for tips, souvenirs, or additional purchases (credit card facilities are limited)

• Camera

• Swimwear and a towel if you plan to swim

A9: Most organized tours include:

• Round-trip transportation from Marrakech (by private car, minivan, or shared bus, depending on your chosen option).

• An experienced driver and/or English-speaking guide.

• A visit to Berber villages and potentially an Argan oil cooperative.

• A guided walk to the Setti Fatma waterfalls.

• Lunch is included depending on your chosen option (see Q10).

• Mineral water might also be provided.

A10: We offer three lunch options to cater to different preferences:

• Option 1: No Lunch included.

• Option 2 (Lunch Included with Group): For those who prefer convenience, this option includes lunch and is offered as part of our group tours. You’ll dine with your fellow travelers.

• Option 3 (Private Tour with Lunch Included): Enjoy a more personalized experience with a private car and a delicious lunch included, perfect for those seeking comfort and flexibility.

A11: Most riads in the Marrakech Medina are not accessible by vehicle. Therefore, we will provide you with a convenient meeting point located close to your riad or hotel. Our pick-up process is organized efficiently, starting with travelers located furthest from Ourika and proceeding one by one based on location and distance, ensuring a smooth start to your day.

A12: We understand that plans can change. Our cancellation policy is as follows:

• 24 hours or more before trip departure: You will receive a full refund.

• Less than 24 hours before trip departure: A refund is not guaranteed but may be possible depending on the circumstances. We encourage you to contact us as soon as possible if you need to cancel within this window.

A13: We prioritize the security of your payment data. All online payments are processed through secure, encrypted platforms that comply with industry standards. We do not store your credit card details on our servers. You can typically pay using major credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard) or other secure online payment methods. Look for security indicators like a padlock icon in your browser’s address bar and “https://” in the website URL when making a payment.