How to Plan a Full-Day Trip to Ourika Valley from Marrakech, Morocco

Do you want to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the Ourika Valley and its vibrant culture? Ourika Valley is a place that you cannot ignore while visiting Marrakech, Morocco. With beautiful landscapes, stunning waterfalls, and Berber villages, Ourika Valley makes for a perfect destination to escape the bustle of Marrakech. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan a full-day trip to Ourika Valley from Marrakech, Morocco.

Step 1: Choosing a Tour

The first step in planning your trip to Ourika Valley is to choose a suitable tour. There are many tour agencies and operators offering different tour packages. But, we recommend the Full-Day Trip to Ourika Valley that is provided by GetYourGuide. This tour costs USD 32 per person and takes approximately 8 hours.

The tour is guided by an experienced tour guide who will take you to the best spots in the valley. Highlights include visiting the Berber market, hiking in the Atlas Mountains, visiting a traditional Moroccan house, and experiencing Berber culture.

Step 2: Booking the Tour

Booking the Full-Day Trip to Ourika Valley is easy. All you need is to visit the GetYourGuide’s website and click on the “Book Now” button on the tour page. You’ll be redirected to the booking page where you will need to provide your details to confirm your booking. You will also need to select the date you want to take the tour and the number of persons in your group. After that, you will be requested to provide payment details to confirm your booking.

Step 3: Preparing for the Tour

Before you leave for the tour, make sure that you have packed everything you will need for the day. Here is a list of things you should bring:

• Comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces
• Sun hat and sunscreen lotion
• A camera to capture memories
• Lightweight clothing that is suitable for the weather
• Snacks and water

Step 4: The Tour Itself

On the day of the tour, be sure to arrive at the designated meeting point at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time. You will be picked up in a comfortable air-conditioned minibus and will be driven to the Ourika Valley.

During the tour, you will see the marvellous sights of the Atlas Mountains and Ourika Valley. You will visit the Berber market, hike through the mountains, and visit a traditional Moroccan house.

At lunchtime, a delicious traditional Moroccan lunch will be served at a local restaurant. Vegetarian options are also available.

Step 5: Returning to Marrakech

After experiencing the beautiful sights and sounds of the Ourika Valley, you will return to Marrakech. You should arrive back in Marrakech in the evening, around 5:00 PM. You can then head back to your hotel or explore the city further.

Conclusion

Marrakech is a beautiful city with lots to see and do. But, a day trip to the Ourika Valley is a must-do when you visit Morocco. With stunning landscapes, Berber villages, and traditional markets, it’s the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of Marrakech.
To book the Full-Day Trip to Ourika Valley, click here.

An Insider’s Guide to Marrakech, Morocco

As one of Morocco’s most prominent cities, Marrakech is rich in culture, history, and architecture. It’s home to some of the world’s most famous tourist spots, including the Jemaa el-Fnaa square and the Majorelle Garden. But, there’s a lot more to the city’s character than these well-known attractions. Here’s an insider’s guide to Marrakech that explores some hidden gems that only locals know about.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems

Marrakech’s charm lies in its authentic atmosphere, and there are plenty of places that only locals can show you. One must-visit spot is Jardin Mouassine. This majestic garden contains an ornate 17th-century palace, which is now a museum showcasing traditional Moroccan arts and crafts. For tea enthusiasts, a visit to Ksar Essaoussan Tea House is a must. There, you can enjoy a range of traditional Moroccan teas while looking out over the city’s stunning rooftops.

Another hidden gem is the Dar El Bacha Palace. This museum palace offers a glimpse into the opulent life of Marrakech’s wealthy in the early 20th century. The palace’s lush gardens, intricate designs, and mosaics give visitors an idea of the luxury they enjoyed. To experience traditional Moroccan street art, head to Tanneries Bab Lakhmis, where skilled artisans dye and paint leather goods using natural pigments.

Dining Spots: Local Cuisine

Marrakech’s food is a vital part of its culture. For a true local experience, venture out of the tourist zones and dine where locals do. The Djemaa El-Fna food market is an excellent place to try authentic Moroccan street food. Here, you can savour harira soup, harrakech (slow-cooked meat), and of course, Moroccan mint tea served with a side of history lesson by the tea seller.

For a fancier evening of Moroccan cuisine, visit the chic Nomad. Situated in the Medina, its rooftop terrace offers a stunning view of the city. The standout menu includes inventive dishes with a Moroccan twist like Freekeh risotto served with ginger-braised chicken and roasted beetroot puree. Spice lovers can visit Café Des Épices where they will try a variety of authentic dishes amidst superb decor and a bustling atmosphere.

Cultural Experiences: Traditions and Customs

Marrakech’s culture is renowned for its hospitality, which stems from Islamic principles. One unique experience is visiting a traditional Moroccan hammam or public bathhouse. Hammam Dar el-Bacha is one of Marrakech’s most famous public baths, with several options available, from basic to more luxurious. More than just a way to wash, the ritual offers visitors a taste of the local ways; relaxation and purification.

To learn about Berber culture in Marrakech, take a trip to Jardin Secret. This elegant garden contains a restored 19th-century palace that now showcases Berber handcrafts and architectural techniques. The museum has a captivating story that includes Chinese immigrants and French archeologists. Another unique experience is a trip to the Camels Souk (market), which offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Moroccan nomadic communities.

Local History: Fascinating Stories

Marrakech has a complex history dating back more than a thousand years, which has influenced its culture, cuisine, and architecture. The city is home to some of the world’s most ancient Islamic architecture and is home to the largest mosque in North Africa, Koutoubia.

The city’s Saadian dynasty palace ruins trace its history back to the 16th century; the high ceilings and intricate carvings are a testament to the dynasty’s wealth and power. For those interested in European history, head to Moulay El Yazid Mosque. It stands on what was once the site of an old casino used by the French administration during the colonial period. The mosque’s construction was part of Morocco’s efforts to create a Muslim identity in contrast to their French occupiers.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Marrakech is full of experiences that go beyond the typical tourist trail. Taking a hot air balloon ride at sunrise over the Atlas Mountains is an unforgettable activity that offers panoramic views of the city’s surroundings.

For the adventurous, quad biking will take you deep into the Marrakech countryside, where you can experience locals’ life in rural areas like the charming Berber towns of the Imlil valley. Alternatively, take a hands-on trip to explore the backstreets of Marrakech by using your culinary skills to prepare a traditional Moroccan tagine in a local home.

Marrakech is a feast for the senses, from its cuisine and culture to its art and design. Exploring the city’s hidden gems, sampling its traditional food, and experiencing its rich culture is sure to leave any visitor wishing for more.