Ourika Travel Guide

A trip to the Ourika Valley is a great escape from the heat and noise of Marrakesh. The first thirty minutes, you drive through a rather dull, flat plan. At the village, souk tnine de l’ourika, the breathtaking views of Berber villages and landscapes begin. There is a great Monday souk at this roadside village.

Setti Fatma is the place to go, if the road is not too washed out. If you take anything but a four-wheel drive, especially during spring, you will be dropped off beside a stream of icy water. Above the village, you can wander around waterfalls. The higher waterfalls can be difficult to climb, and especially to come down. Wear good foot-wear!

It’s possible to set out for trekking to Toubkal from Setti Fatma. The valley is in the middle of the Atlas mountains. The Djebel Yagour with prehistoric rock carvings, the Djebel Tougledn (at least 1 night overnight) are for adventurous trekkers. A three day trek across the Zat Valley, beginning at Setti Fatma and ending beneath Taddert on the Tizi n’Tichka is spectacular but challenging. For guides, go to the Cafe Azagza.