Quick answer: The Ouzoud Waterfalls are the highest in Morocco, dropping about 110 metres in several tiers in the Middle Atlas, roughly 150 km (2.5–3 hours) from Marrakech. A visit includes a walk down to the base through olive groves, a small boat ride close to the falls and wild Barbary macaques along the trail.
If you want green landscapes and fresh air after the heat of Marrakech, the Ouzoud waterfalls are the best day trip. Here is everything you need to know, from our guides who lead this excursion several times a week.
Where are the Ouzoud Waterfalls?
The falls are near the village of Tanaghmeilt, in the province of Azilal, in the Middle Atlas. “Ouzoud” means olive in Tamazight – the area is covered with olive trees and old water mills.
How to get there from Marrakech
- Private day trip: the easiest option, with hotel pickup and a local guide on site – see our Ouzoud Waterfalls day trip.
- Shared tour: cheaper but in larger groups.
- Bus + grand taxi: possible via Azilal, but slow.
Driving time is about 2.5–3 hours each way, with a stop at a viewpoint on the way.
What to do at Ouzoud
- Top viewpoints – panoramic views over the cascades and rainbows in the afternoon.
- Walk down to the base – a 20–30 minute path with steps, lined with small cafés.
- Boat ride – colourful rafts take you close to the spray.
- Barbary macaques – wild monkeys live in the trees. Watch them, but do not feed them.
- Lunch with a view – tajine on a terrace facing the falls.
- Swim – in some pools downstream in summer (the water is fresh!).
Best time to visit
Spring (March to May) has the strongest flow after winter rains and snowmelt. Summer is busy with Moroccan families escaping the heat. Weekdays are quieter than weekends. See our best time to visit Morocco guide.
What to bring
- Good walking shoes – the path is steep and sometimes wet.
- Swimwear and a small towel in summer.
- Cash in dirhams for the boat, lunch and tips.
- A light jacket in spring.
Other nature day trips from Marrakech
Prefer mountains? Try the Ourika Valley day trip or the Three Valleys. See all our day trips from Marrakech or read about hiking in Imlil and Toubkal.
Tours related to this guide
- Ouzoud Waterfalls Day Trip
- Ourika Valley Day Trip from Marrakech
- Three Valleys Day Trip from Marrakech
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Frequently asked questions
How far are the Ouzoud Waterfalls from Marrakech?
About 150 km, which takes 2.5 to 3 hours by road each way.
How high are the Ouzoud Waterfalls?
They drop about 110 metres in several tiers, making them the highest waterfalls in Morocco.
Can you swim at Ouzoud Waterfalls?
Swimming is possible in some pools downstream in summer, but not directly under the falls. The water is cool.
Are there monkeys at Ouzoud?
Yes, wild Barbary macaques live around the falls. Observe them from a distance and do not feed them.
Written by the Todo Marruecos Tours travel team, local tour operators based in Morocco. Last updated: September 2026.