The Ourika Valley is the most popular day-trip destination from Marrakech. The valley is located in the Ourika River basin in the High Atlas, approximately 60 km south of Marrakech.

The valley is home to many Berber communities. The river’s name is derived from the Berber clan of Ourika, who were descendants of the famed Almohad dynasty. Berbers have inhabited Africa since antiquity. When the Arabs came in Africa in the seventh century, the Berbers fled to remote portions of the Atlas Mountains. Today, most Berbers have converted to Islam while retaining their Berber language. Ourika Valley residents speak Tashelhit, a distinct Berber dialect.

Setti-Fatma, which is 1500 meters above sea level, is the most well-known town in the Ourika Valley. It’s a popular tourist site during the hot summer months. From the town, one can walk to Jebel Toubkal, the highest peak in the Atlas Mountains.

Another hiking trail leads towards the seven waterfalls.

Hiking always ends at a nearby restaurant…

…or café, located right by the river.