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Visiting Ouzoud Waterfalls: Ultimate Guide For First Timers

Crowded viewing area at the base of Ouzoud Waterfalls on a sunny day.

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Have you ever seen water drop so high it looks like it’s falling from the sky? That’s what it’s like at Ouzoud Waterfalls in Morocco. These falls are a huge wall of water that crashes down 110 meters (360 feet) into a green valley. It’s so tall, it’s like watching a 36-story building made of water!

Ouzoud Waterfalls is the biggest one in North Africa, and it’s become super popular for people visiting Morocco. But there’s way more to see than just the falls. There are olive groves that have been around for hundreds of years, playful monkeys swinging in the trees, and rainbow mist that dances in the air.

Today, I’m going to tell you everything you need to know about visiting Ouzoud Waterfalls. We’ll talk about how to get there, when to go, what to do, what to pack, and more!

Ouzoud Waterfalls cascading into a river with boat tours at the base.

What Are Ouzoud Waterfalls and Where Can You Find Them?

Ouzoud Waterfalls, or “Cascades d’Ouzoud” in French, is a series of waterfalls on the Ouzoud River. The name “Ouzoud” comes from a Berber word that means “olive.” This makes sense because the whole area around the falls is full of olive trees.

Those olive trees aren’t new trees either – they’re super old, with twisted trunks and silvery leaves that have been growing for hundreds of years.

The Ouzoud falls are in a part of Morocco called the Atlas Mountains. They’re about 150 kilometers (93 miles) northeast of a big city called Marrakech. The closest town is a small place called Tanaghmeilt, which is in an area called Azilal province.

To help you understand where Ouzoud is, here’s a table showing how far it is from some other places in Morocco:

PlaceHow Far from OuzoudHow Long It Takes to Get There
Marrakech150 km (93 miles)2.5 – 3 hours
Azilal30 km (19 miles)45 minutes
Beni Mellal120 km (75 miles)2 hours
Demnate70 km (43 miles)1.5 hours
Distances and Travel Times to Ouzoud Waterfalls from Nearby Cities

The Ouzoud River starts way up in the Atlas Mountains. Over thousands of years, it has carved out a deep valley called the El-Abid River gorge.

The waterfalls of Ouzoud are where the river takes a big leap down into this gorge. It’s not just one big drop, though. The water falls in several steps, making a series of waterfalls that add up to 110 meters (360 feet) in total.

What’s really cool about Ouzoud is that it’s like a little green paradise in the middle of a pretty dry area. While a lot of Morocco can be hot and dry, Ouzoud is lush and full of plants. There are lots of trees, flowers, and even some animals that you won’t see in other parts of the country.

How Do You Get to Ouzoud Waterfalls?

Getting to Ouzoud Waterfalls Morocco can be an adventure all by itself! There are a few different ways to get there, and each one has its own fun parts and tricky bits. Let’s look at all the ways you can reach this amazing place:

Going on an Organized Tour

If you’re exploring the free things to do in Marrakech and don’t want to worry about figuring out directions or driving yourself, an organized tour might be the way to go. Here’s what you need to know:

Cost200-350 Moroccan Dirhams ($20-35 USD) per person
DurationFull day trip (8 AM to 6 PM approx.)
What’s includedAir-conditioned bus/van ride, sometimes a guide
What’s not includedFood, drinks, possible entrance fees
Organized Tour Details for Ouzoud Waterfalls

These tours are great if you don’t have a lot of time or if you just want everything taken care of for you. Plus, the guide can tell you all sorts of interesting things about the area as you drive there.

Taking Public Transport

If you’re feeling brave and want to travel like a local, you can try taking public transport. It’s cheaper, but it takes longer and can be a bit confusing if you don’t speak Arabic or French. Here’s how it works:

  • First, you need to get from Marrakech to a town called Azilal. You can do this by taking a bus or a “grand taxi” (that’s a shared taxi that goes between cities). This part costs about 150 Moroccan Dirhams (about $15).
  • Once you’re in Azilal, you need to find another shared taxi to take you to Ouzoud. This part is cheaper, only about 25 Moroccan Dirhams (about $2.50).

This way of getting there is an adventure in itself! You’ll get to see how local people travel and maybe even practice some Arabic. Just remember that the schedules can be a bit unpredictable, so you need to be patient and flexible.

Renting a Car

If you’re comfortable driving in a new place, renting a car can be a great option. It gives you the most freedom to explore at your own pace. Here’s what you should know:

CostAbout 250 Moroccan Dirhams ($25 USD) per day
Drive time2.5 to 3 hours from Marrakech to Ouzoud
Important noteMost cars have manual transmission
Car Rental Guide for Ouzoud Waterfalls Visit

Driving yourself means you can stop whenever you want to take photos or explore little villages along the way. Take note that the roads to Ouzoud Waterfalls can be winding in the mountains, so drive carefully!

Hitchhiking

For the really adventurous travelers, hitchhiking is possible in Morocco. It’s not the safest or most reliable way to travel, but some people enjoy the excitement and the chance to meet locals. If you decide to hitchhike, make sure you have plenty of time, be careful, and trust your instincts.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Ouzoud Waterfalls in Morocco?

Choosing when to visit Ouzoud Waterfalls Morocco can make a big difference in what you see and how much you enjoy your trip. The falls look different in each season, and the weather changes a lot throughout the year. Let’s look at what each season is like at Ouzoud:

AspectWinter (Nov-Feb)Spring (Mar-May)Summer (Jun-Aug)Autumn (Sep-Oct)
Water FlowStrongestStrongLess, but impressiveIncreasing
Temperature10-20°C (50-68°F)15-25°C (59-77°F)Up to 35°C (95°F) or more20-30°C (68-86°F)
CrowdsFewestStarting to increaseBusiestFewer than summer
ProsGreat for photos, fewer peopleNice weather, green sceneryPerfect for swimming, long daysNice weather, good water flow
ConsToo cold to swim, slippery pathsOccasional rainVery hot, crowdedUnpredictable weather
Special FeaturesPowerful fallsWildflowers bloomingSwimming pools accessibleComfortable temperatures
Seasonal Guide to Visiting Ouzoud Waterfalls

Here’s a tip: If you can, try to visit on a weekday. Ouzoud Waterfalls are a popular place for Moroccans to visit on weekends, especially in summer. So if you go on a weekday, there might be fewer people.

As for what time of day to visit, early morning is great if you want to avoid crowds and get soft light for photos. Around noon is the best time to see rainbows in the mist from the falls. And late afternoon has beautiful golden light that’s perfect for taking pretty pictures.

Hey, want even more cool travel tips like these? Check out destination.com for tons of helpful travel guides to awesome places around the world. We’ve got all sorts of insider info that’ll make your trips even more amazing!

People swimming and having fun in a river near Ouzoud Waterfalls.

What Are the Things to Do at Ouzoud Waterfalls?

Ouzoud Waterfalls isn’t just a place to look at water falling down rocks. There’s so much to do here! Let’s explore all the fun activities you can enjoy when you visit:

1. Hike Around the Falls

One of the best things to do at Ouzoud Waterfalls is to take a walk around the falls. There are trails that take you from the top of the falls all the way to the bottom. Here’s what you need to know:

  • How hard is it?: Most of the Ouzoud trails are pretty easy. You don’t have to be a super athlete to do them.
  • How long does it take?: It usually takes about 1-2 hours to walk all the way around, but you can take longer if you want to stop and look at things.
  • What will you see?: You’ll get to see the falls from lots of different angles. You’ll also see olive groves, maybe some monkeys, and beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Hiking tip: Wear shoes that won’t slip. Some parts of the trail can be a bit wet from the mist of the falls. And don’t forget to bring water to drink, especially if it’s a hot day!

2. Take a Boat Ride

Want to get really close to the Ouzoud falls? You can take a short boat ride that takes you right up to the bottom of the big waterfall. Here’s the scoop:

  • How much does it cost?: About 20 Moroccan Dirhams (that’s about $2 in US dollars) for each person.
  • How long does it last?: The boat ride is pretty short, only about 10-15 minutes.
  • What’s it like?: It’s super exciting! You’ll feel the spray from the falls on your face, and you’ll really understand how powerful the water is.

Boat riding tip: You will get wet on this ride! Don’t forget to bring a change of clothes, or at least be ready to be a bit damp afterwards.

3. Go for a Swim

On a hot day, there’s nothing better than taking a dip in the cool water at the bottom of the Ouzoud falls. Here’s what you should know about swimming at Ouzoud:

  • Where can you swim?: There are several natural pools at the bottom of the falls where it’s safe to swim.
  • How cold is the water?: Pretty chilly! The water comes from the mountains, so it’s cool even on hot days.
  • Is it safe?: Generally yes, but always be careful. Don’t swim too close to where the water is falling, and watch out for slippery rocks.

Swimming tip: If you’re planning to swim in Ouzoud falls, bring a towel and maybe a change of clothes. There are some places to change near the swimming areas, but they’re pretty basic.

4. Watch the Monkeys

One of the coolest things about Ouzoud Waterfalls is the monkeys that live there. These are Barbary macaques (Macaca sylvanus), a type of monkey that’s only found in a few places in the world like Tunisia, Gibraltar, and the Atlas Mountains of Algeria. Here’s what to know about the monkeys:

  • Where to see them: They usually hang out near the bottom of the falls.
  • When to look for them: Early morning or late afternoon is when they’re most active.
  • Important rule: Don’t feed the monkeys! It’s bad for their health and can make them act aggressively.

It’s super fun to watch the monkeys play and interact with each other. Just remember, they’re wild animals, so watch from a distance and don’t try to touch them.

5. Enjoy Local Food

All that walking and swimming will probably make you hungry! Luckily, there are lots of little restaurants near Ouzoud falls where you can try some yummy Moroccan food. Here are some things you might want to try:

  • Tagine: This is a kind of stew cooked in a special pot. It often has meat and vegetables.
  • Moroccan salads: These are usually cooked vegetable dishes served cold.
  • Mint tea: This sweet tea is a Moroccan specialty and is super refreshing on a hot day.

The restaurants near the Ouzoud Waterfalls might be a bit more expensive than in less touristy areas, but the views make up for it!

6. Visit an Olive Mill

Remember how “Ouzoud” means “olive”? Well, the area around the falls is famous for its olive trees. If you’re interested, you can visit an old-fashioned olive mill to see how olive oil is made. These mills are called “maasras” in Arabic. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Where are they?: Usually a short walk from the main falls area.
  • How much does it cost?: Often free to visit, but it’s nice to buy some olive oil if you like it.
  • What will you see?: Old stone wheels used to crush olives, presses for squeezing out the oil, and maybe even a demonstration of how it all works.

Visiting an olive mill is a great way to learn about local traditions and see a part of Moroccan life that many tourists miss.

7. Rainbow Spotting at Ouzoud Waterfalls

One of the most magical things about Ouzoud Waterfalls is the rainbows. When the sun hits the mist from the falls just right, it creates beautiful colorful arcs in the air. Here’s what you need to know about rainbow spotting at Ouzoud:

  • Best time for rainbows: Usually late morning to early afternoon, when the sun is high in the sky.
  • Where to look: The best spots are often near the bottom of the falls where there’s lots of mist.
  • Photography tip: If you want to take pictures of the rainbows, use a polarizing filter on your camera if you have one. It can make the colors pop even more!

Sometimes, if you’re really lucky, you might even see a double rainbow. That’s when there are two rainbow arcs, one above the other. It’s pretty rare, but it does happen at Ouzoud Waterfalls sometimes!

8. Birdwatching Around the Ouzoud Falls

The area around Ouzoud Waterfalls isn’t just home to monkeys. It’s also a great place for birdwatching. The mix of water, trees, and cliffs creates habitats for lots of different kinds of birds. Here are some birds you might see:

  • Kingfishers: These small, brightly colored birds dive into the water to catch fish.
  • Eagles: You might spot some of these big birds of prey soaring high above the falls.
  • Swallows: These fast-flying birds often swoop around the falls, catching insects.
  • Storks: In spring and summer, you might see these big white and black birds nesting on nearby buildings.

If you’re into birdwatching, bring a pair of binoculars if you have them. Early morning is usually the best time to spot birds when they’re most active.

9. Sunset Viewing at Ouzoud Waterfalls

If you can stay until the end of the day, watching the sunset at Ouzoud is something special. As the sun goes down, it paints the falls and the surrounding cliffs in beautiful warm colors. Here’s how to make the most of sunset at Ouzoud:

  • Best viewpoint: The top of the falls often offers the best views of the sunset.
  • Timing: Check what time sunset is on the day you visit. Try to find your spot about 30 minutes before that time.
  • What to bring: A jacket (it can get cool after the sun goes down), and a flashlight for the walk back if it gets dark.

Important note: If you’re staying to watch the sunset, make sure you know how you’re getting back to where you’re staying. If you came with a tour, check if they offer any sunset tours that stay later.

What Should You Pack for a Trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls?

Packing the right stuff can make your trip to Ouzoud Waterfalls much more fun. Here’s a list of things you might want to bring:

ItemDetailsPurpose
Walking shoesWater-resistant hiking shoes/sneakersSlippery paths, rocky terrain
SwimwearQuick-dry swimsuitSwimming in 15-22°C (59-72°F) pools
TowelMicrofiber travel towelCompact, quick-drying
Sun protectionSPF 50+ sunscreen, wide-brimmed hatUV index 8-10 in summer
Water bottle1L reusable bottleRefill at cafes, 35°C (95°F) summers
CameraWaterproof/waterproof caseCapture 110m (360ft) falls
Cash500-1000 MAD in small billsNo cards accepted, boat rides 20 MAD
Light jacketWindbreaker/fleeceEvening temps drop to 15°C (59°F)
SnacksEnergy bars, nuts, dried fruitsLimited local options
Change of clothesLight, breathable fabricsMist from falls, temp changes
Plastic bags2-3 medium ziplock bagsProtect electronics, store wet items
Essential Packing List for Ouzoud Waterfalls Trip

Remember that you’ll be carrying whatever you bring with you as you explore, so try not to pack too much. A small backpack with these essentials should be perfect for a day trip at Ouzoud Waterfalls.

How Can You Be a Responsible Visitor at Ouzoud Waterfalls?

Ouzoud Waterfalls Morocco is a beautiful natural place, and we all need to do our part to keep it that way. Here are some ways you can be a good visitor:

  • Stay on the marked paths: This helps protect plants and stops the ground from getting damaged.
  • Don’t feed the monkeys: It might seem fun, but it’s bad for the monkeys’ health and can make them aggressive.
  • Take your trash with you: There aren’t many trash cans around the falls, so be ready to carry out any trash you make.
  • Respect local customs: Morocco is a Muslim country, so it’s polite to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees.
  • Ask before taking photos of people: Some people don’t like having their picture taken. It’s always nice to ask first.
  • Use eco-friendly sunscreen: Regular sunscreen can harm the plants and animals in the water. Look for sunscreen that says “reef-safe” or “biodegradable”.
  • Support local businesses: Buy from local shops and eat at local restaurants when you can. This helps the people who live in the area.
  • Save water: If you’re staying overnight near the falls, take short showers and reuse your towels if you can.
  • Learn a few words in Arabic or Berber: People always appreciate it when visitors try to speak their language. Even just learning “hello” (marhaba in Arabic) and “thank you” (shukran in Arabic) can go a long way!

By following these simple rules, you’re helping to make sure that Ouzoud Waterfalls stays beautiful for future visitors to enjoy.

Camping tents and chairs in a forest near Ouzoud Waterfalls.

Are There Places to Stay Near Ouzoud Waterfalls Morocco?

While many people visit Ouzoud Waterfalls as a day trip from Marrakech, staying overnight can be a great way to see the falls without the daytime crowds. There are several types of places you can stay near the falls:

  • Hotels: There are a few small hotels in the village of Tanaghmeilt, which is very close to the falls. These range from basic to more comfortable options.
  • Guesthouses: These are often run by local families and can give you a more personal experience of Moroccan hospitality.
  • Camping: If you like sleeping outdoors, there are campsites near the falls. One popular place is called Camping Auberge Zebra.
  • Homestays: Some local families offer rooms in their homes. This can be a great way to experience Moroccan culture firsthand.

Here’s a quick comparison of these options:

Type of PlaceHow Much It Costs (per night)Good ThingsNot-So-Good Things
Hotel300-800 MAD ($30-80 USD)Comfortable, private bathroomsMore expensive
Guesthouse150-400 MAD ($15-40 USD)Often family-run, traditional experienceMight have shared bathrooms
Camping50-100 MAD ($5-10 USD)Cheapest option, close to natureBasic facilities
Homestay200-500 MAD ($20-50 USD)Cultural experience, home-cooked mealsLess privacy
Accommodation Options Near Ouzoud Waterfalls: Comparison Guide

These prices can change depending on the time of year. It’s usually more expensive in summer and during holidays.

If you decide to stay overnight, you’ll have the chance to see the falls in the early morning light before most visitors arrive. It’s a magical time and can be worth the extra effort of staying over.

Ouzoud Waterfalls with rainbow and cafes perched on cliffs above the river.

Insider Tips for Visiting Ouzoud Waterfalls

After all this talk about Ouzoud Waterfalls, I bet you’re excited to go! Here are some insider tips to make your visit even better:

  • Arrive at 7:30 AM: Gates open at 8 AM. First boat rides start at 9 AM. Early morning light is best for photos and you’ll avoid the midday heat that often reaches 35°C (95°F) in summer.
  • Carry 20 and 50 MAD notes: Boat rides cost 20 MAD, most meals 50-100 MAD. Many small vendors can’t break 200 MAD notes.
  • Order ‘Poisson Tagine’: Local specialty of freshwater fish with olives and preserved lemon, typically costs 80 MAD. Best enjoyed at Cafe des Cascades with a view of the falls.
  • Rainbow spot: 11 AM-1 PM: Best viewed from the lower viewing platform, about 100 meters from the base of the falls. Rainbows are most vivid after recent rainfall.
  • Try the ‘Olive Grove Trail’: 2km loop, less crowded, starts near the main entrance. Passes by century-old olive trees and offers unique views of the falls.
  • Photo tip: Best waterfall shot from ‘Rainbow Bridge’ around 10 AM. Use a slow shutter speed (1/15 sec) for silky water effect.
  • Use IPX7 rated phone case: Protects against water up to 1m deep for 30 minutes. Essential near the falls where spray can reach up to 10 meters from the base.
  • Sunset time varies: 5:30 PM (winter) to 8 PM (summer). Best viewed from top platform. Arrives about 30 minutes earlier at the falls due to surrounding hills.
  • Spot 100-year-old olive trees: Located near the old water mills, 500m from main falls. Some trees here are over 500 years old and still produce olives.
  • Learn Arabic phrase “Shukran”: Means “Thank you”, pronounced “shoo-kran”. Local vendors often offer samples of dates or nuts – this phrase is handy.

Remember, the best experiences often come from going with the flow and being open to new things. Ouzoud Waterfalls is a magical place, so take your time, enjoy everything you see, and make memories that you’ll remember forever!

So, what do you think? Are you ready to add Ouzoud Waterfalls to your travel plans? Whether you’re planning a trip to Morocco or just dreaming about future adventures, keep Ouzoud in mind. The roar of the falls, the mist on your face, the rainbows in the air – it’s an experience you won’t forget.

How Many Steps Are There at Ouzoud Waterfalls?

To reach the bottom of Ouzoud Waterfalls, you’ll need to go down about 600 steps. These steps are fairly steep but offer great views and the chance to see Barbary macaque monkeys along the way​.

Can You Swim in Ouzoud Waterfall?

Yes, you can swim in the Ouzoud Waterfalls Morocco. The pools at the base of the falls are great for a refreshing dip, especially in the summer when the water is warmer. Just be cautious of the depth and enjoy the beautiful surroundings while cooling off.

How Tall is Ouzoud Falls?

Ouzoud Falls stands at an impressive height of about 110 meters (360 feet). It’s the tallest waterfall in Morocco and a stunning natural attraction.

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