Detailed One-Day Ourika Valley Excursion from Marrakech

Start Time: 9:00 AM

1. Departure from Marrakech (9:00 AM)

  • Leave Marrakech early in the morning, around 9:00 AM, to ensure a full day of exploration. The journey to Ourika Valley is approximately 1.5 hours, offering scenic views of the Atlas Mountains and traditional Berber villages along the way.

2. Stop at Pottery Workshop (10:00 AM - 10:45 AM)

  • Your first stop will be at a local pottery workshop. Here, you can observe traditional Moroccan pottery techniques, learn about the process, and even try your hand at shaping clay. This stop allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship involved in creating Morocco’s iconic pottery pieces.

3. Visit to Argan Oil Feminine Cooperative (11:00 AM - 11:45 AM)

  • Continue your journey with a visit to an argan oil cooperative run by local Berber women. You’ll learn about the production process of this precious oil, from the harvesting of the argan nuts to the final extraction of the oil. This is also an opportunity to purchase authentic argan oil products directly from the source.

4. Berber House Visit (12:00 PM - 12:30 PM)

  • Visit a traditional Berber house to get a glimpse into the daily life of a Berber family. Enjoy a warm welcome with mint tea, and discover the unique architectural style and cultural heritage of the Berber people.

5. Arrival at Setti Fadma (1:00 PM)

  • Arrive at the village of Setti Fadma, located at the end of the road through Ourika Valley. This is a popular starting point for treks into the Atlas Mountains.

6. Guided Hike to the Waterfall (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM)

  • Meet with a local guide who will take you on a hike to the Setti Fadma waterfall. The hike is moderately challenging, offering stunning views of the valley and the surrounding mountains. The waterfall itself is a beautiful spot for photos and a refreshing break.

7. Lunch Beside the River (2:00 PM - 3:00 PM)

  • After the hike, enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of the local restaurants beside the river. Many of these restaurants offer traditional Moroccan dishes, such as tagine and couscous, with a view of the flowing river.

8. Return to Marrakech (3:00 PM - 4:00 PM)

  • After lunch, depart Setti Fadma and head back to Marrakech, aiming to arrive by 4:00 PM. This will give you ample time to relax and reflect on your day in the beautiful Ourika Valley.