All about visiting the Ouzoud waterfalls-WWNEED.COM
Listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, the Ouzoud Waterfalls near Marrakech are one of the most beautiful natural sites in Morocco. These are the most beautiful waterfalls in the country, especially the most famous! Anyway, their visit is a must for any stay in this beautiful region, especially if you do not yet know what to do in Marrakech.
Why visit the Ouzoud Waterfalls?
The place is just beautiful to visit: the falls are indeed in the middle of majestic landscapes. If you’re going on a road trip to Morocco, you can’t miss it!
Between the green meadows, the fields of almond trees, those of olive trees and the rocky peaks, the spectacle is dazzling. Especially since the Oued Ouzoud flows through a valley of red sandstone with waterfalls over 110 meters high and 90 meters wide at the end (they are divided into three levels and their flow varies depending on the season). The falls then pour into a natural pool of a pretty blue, bathed almost every day by a rainbow of colors.
The tourist site largely competes with the most beautiful beaches of Marrakech, it looks like a beautiful oasis where Moroccans like to spend their summer days.
What activities can be practiced on site?
Many excursions are possible to the Ouzoud Waterfalls. You can get as close as possible to the waterfalls aboard one of the boats made by the locals You can also cross the river on a bridge and hike around the site.
You also have the option of descending to the foot of the waterfalls. This activity is very popular despite a steep path. You can also reach the source of Ouzoud 3 km away. Along the way, you will pass through olive groves, can visit an oil press and wheat mills before being able to bathe in the springs. You will also see many monkeys (wild Berber macaques). If you want to simply relax, you can have a picnic or eat a tajine with your feet in the water or drink a tea/coffee in one of the small restaurants located on the terrace. Of course, you can swim in the river to cool off while enjoying the show.
If you prefer a guided hike followed by a boat trip to get a closer look at the falls, I recommend booking a trip that combines the two.
If you are wondering what to bring back from Marrakech, know that you can buy souvenirs in the small craft shops located along the path down the waterfall.
Where are the Ouzoud Waterfalls?
The Cascades d’Ouzoud are located about 150 km northeast of Marrakech, between the Middle and High Atlas, at an altitude of 1,060 meters. This is the Beni Mellal-Khénifra region. The nearest large town is Azilal (30 km).
How to get there ?
If you plan to rent a vehicle for your stay in Marrakech, you can easily go to the Cascades d’Ouzoud by car. From Marrakech, count 2 and a half hours by road (159 km) and from Casablanca: count 4 hours by road (250 km).
You can also take a Grand Taxi (public transport) from Marrakech or you can also take a bus from the “Bab Doukkala” bus station in the direction of Azilal. The journey will be longer: about 4 hours.
CTM, the largest bus company in Morocco, offers you the following formulas:
Marrakech-Beni Mellal (3h35 drive) from 86 dirhams ($ 9 ).
Casablanca-Beni Mellal (4h45) from 129 dirhams ($13).
Otherwise, go through a stay organizer: it will be easier! Many companies offer excursions to the Ouzoud Waterfalls at more than advantageous prices, especially with pick-up at your hotel (the return transfer will therefore be included).
When is the best time to visit the Ouzoud Waterfalls near Marrakech?
The site is open all year round, all week and all day from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Go there preferably early in the morning or at the end of the afternoon because the site is very busy. Dedicate a day of your stay in Morocco to see the essentials of the Cascades.
What is the best time of year to go?
If you do not yet know when to go to Marrakech to enjoy the Ouzoud waterfalls, know that the best period is probably the one that goes from June to September when it is hot throughout the country. The day spent there will be most refreshing.
How much does the visit cost?
The visit to the waterfalls is free but through a specialized agency, you will have to pay for a day trip between 20 and 30 $ per person. However, this sum will allow you to benefit from certain advantages, including the shuttle from your hotel, the discovery of the various Moroccan landscapes to the waterfalls, an English-speaking guide and/or an activity/excursion of your choice: boat trip, hike, etc. .
Tips for your trip
Remember to put good walking shoes, a hat or cap, sunscreen and your swimsuit in your luggage.
Unfortunately, the site is only partly accessible to people with reduced mobility.
Watch out for monkeys that can steal food and other items from you.
Where to sleep near the Ouzoud Waterfalls?
As for accommodation, you can sleep on site in small reed and bamboo huts. This will allow you to enjoy small traditional shows (Berber songs and dances in the evening). Remember to take a tent and a sleeping bag!
You will also find many inns and hotels near the waterfalls or in the surrounding area.
If you have come to the Cascades d’Ouzoud by car, go camping in Marrakech at Camping Zebra, which offers parking at 100 dirhams. To this, you will have to add 20 dirhams for electricity and 10 dirhams for wifi. Nine rooms are also available for rent on the campsite.
Here are two additional addresses according to your desires and your budget of course:
Le Petit Riad Dar Ouzoud (for two people only) from $23.
Your travel budget is bigger? The Borj des Cascades hotel (5 stars) will make you happy. You can book a deluxe room from $150 per night and a standard room from $115. Go to their website from Booking now:
You can also consult the articles on riads in Marrakech and where to sleep in Marrakech to see the comparisons of the best accommodation in the city.
That’s all for this article on the Cascades d’Ouzoud in Marrakech, I hope you enjoyed it. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments
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