Ourika Valley's Crown Jewel
Setti Fatma Waterfalls
Seven cascading waterfalls hidden in the High Atlas Mountains. From an easy riverside stroll to a challenging mountain scramble, there is a waterfall for every adventurer.
7 Waterfalls
30 min - 4 hours hiking
Easy to Very Difficult
Best: March - July
Setti Fatma, Ourika Valley
About the Waterfalls
The Setti Fatma waterfalls are the main attraction of the Ourika Valley and the most popular hiking destination near Marrakech. Seven separate waterfalls cascade down the mountainside above the village of Setti Fatma, each progressively harder to reach.
The first waterfall is accessible to almost anyone with reasonable footwear and takes about 30-45 minutes to reach from the village. The trail follows the river valley through a rocky gorge, crossing the water several times on stepping stones. A local guide is recommended but not essential for the first waterfall.
Beyond the first falls, the trail becomes progressively steeper and less defined. Reaching all seven waterfalls is a genuine mountain hike taking 3-4 hours round trip, requiring good fitness, proper footwear, and ideally a local guide. Most visitors are satisfied with seeing the first two or three waterfalls.
The Trail
The 7 Waterfalls
Each waterfall offers its own character and challenge level.
#1
First Waterfall (Main Falls)
Height: ~15 meters 30-45 minutes
Easy Swimming
The most accessible and popular waterfall. A well-worn path leads from Setti Fatma village through the river valley to a beautiful cascading falls with a natural pool at the base. The trail crosses the river several times on stepping stones.
Photo tip: Best photographed from the pool area below. Morning light avoids harsh shadows.
#2
Second Waterfall
Height: ~10 meters 50-60 minutes
Easy-Moderate Swimming
Just above the first waterfall, this cascade is less visited but equally beautiful. The trail becomes steeper and requires some scrambling over rocks. A local guide is helpful here.
Photo tip: The narrower canyon creates beautiful light patterns in the late morning.
#3
Third Waterfall
Height: ~12 meters 1 - 1.5 hours
Moderate Swimming
The trail narrows significantly and involves climbing over boulders. This waterfall drops into a deeper pool surrounded by dramatic rock walls. The effort is rewarded with fewer crowds.
Photo tip: Wide-angle lens recommended to capture the surrounding rock amphitheatre.
#4
Fourth Waterfall
Height: ~8 meters 1.5 - 2 hours
Moderate
A smaller but charming waterfall that marks the transition to more challenging terrain. The path requires careful footing and a guide is strongly recommended from this point.
Photo tip: The intimate setting works well for close-up water photography.
#5
Fifth Waterfall
Height: ~20 meters 2 - 2.5 hours
Difficult
One of the tallest and most dramatic falls. The trail involves real scrambling and exposed sections. Only for fit hikers comfortable with heights. The views from here over the valley below are spectacular.
Photo tip: The height creates mist - protect your lens but use it for atmospheric shots.
#6
Sixth Waterfall
Height: ~10 meters 2.5 - 3 hours
Difficult
Hidden in a rocky ravine, this waterfall is rarely visited by tourists. The trail is faint and requires a guide who knows the route. The reward is total solitude and pristine natural beauty.
Photo tip: Tripod essential - low light in the ravine requires longer exposures.
#7
Seventh Waterfall (Summit Falls)
Height: ~25 meters 3 - 4 hours
Very Difficult
The final and most remote waterfall. Reaching it requires significant climbing ability and a good head for heights. Very few visitors make it this far. The panoramic views of the entire Ourika Valley are breathtaking.
Photo tip: Arrive early for the clearest mountain views. Telephoto lens for valley panoramas.
1-2
Easy Route
1-1.5 hours round trip. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
3-4
Moderate Route
2-3 hours round trip. Requires decent fitness and proper shoes.
5-7
Challenging Route
4-6 hours round trip. For experienced hikers only. Guide essential.
Prepare
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoes/bootsESSENTIAL
Not sandals or flip-flops. Trails are rocky and wet.
Water (minimum 1.5 litres)ESSENTIAL
No shops on the trail above the village.
Sun protectionESSENTIAL
Hat, sunscreen, sunglasses. Mountain sun is intense.
Light layersESSENTIAL
Temperature drops near the waterfalls and at altitude.
Cash in dirhamsESSENTIAL
For guide tips, village cafes, no ATMs available.
Camera (waterproof or in dry bag)
Spray and mist near waterfalls. Protect your gear.
Swimwear
For the natural pools at waterfalls 1-3 (summer only).
Quick-dry towel
Compact microfiber towel takes minimal space.
Snacks and energy bars
Essential if hiking beyond the 3rd waterfall.
First aid basics
Band-aids, antiseptic - minor scrapes are common.
Trekking poles
Helpful for balance on rocky sections, especially descent.
Guides
Hiring a Local Guide
Why Hire a Guide?
Trails above the first waterfall are unmarked and confusing
Guides know the safest river crossings and route options
They can assess weather and flood risk in real time
Cultural insights about Berber villages along the way
They carry basic first aid and know emergency procedures
Supporting local guides supports the community directly
Cost:100-300 MAD depending on distance (waterfalls 1-3: 100-150 MAD, all 7: 200-300 MAD)
Where to find:Official guides wait at the trailhead in Setti Fatma village. Look for those with official badges.
Tip:Agree on the price and route before starting. Tipping 50-100 MAD extra for a good guide is appreciated.
Cool Off
Swimming Spots
First Waterfall Pool
The largest and most popular natural pool. Crystal-clear water, though cold even in summer (15-18C). Shallow edges for wading, deeper in the centre.
Best: June - September
Safe in calm weather. Local guides supervise. Never swim during or after rain.
Second Waterfall Pool
Smaller and more secluded pool with fewer visitors. Deep enough for swimming but surrounded by rocks - enter carefully.
Best: July - August
Take care on slippery rocks. Guide recommended.
River Pools Below the Village
Several natural pools along the Ourika River near Setti Fatma. Easier access and shallower, good for families with children.
Best: June - September
Supervise children closely. River can be unpredictable.
Critical Safety Warning
NEVER swim during or after rainfall. The Ourika River and its tributaries are prone to sudden, violent flash floods. In August 1995, a devastating flash flood killed over 200 people in the valley. Always check weather conditions and follow local advice.
Planning
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March - May)
The absolute best time. Snowmelt fills the waterfalls to maximum flow, wildflowers cover the hillsides, and temperatures are perfect for hiking (18-25C).
Early Summer (June - July)
Warm and sunny, waterfalls still flowing well. Swimming in the natural pools becomes pleasant. Can be hot on the lower trail.
Late Summer (August - September)
Hottest period, waterfall flow diminishes. Best for swimming spots. Start hiking early to avoid afternoon heat.
Autumn (October - November)
Beautiful autumn colours, fewer tourists. WARNING: Flash flood season begins. Check weather carefully before hiking.
Winter (December - February)
Cold (5-12C) and some trails may be icy or closed. Waterfalls can be impressive after rain but trails are dangerous when wet.
Capture
Photography Tips
Use a Slow Shutter Speed
For silky waterfall effects, use 1/4 second or slower. A tripod or stable surface is essential. ND filter helps in bright conditions.
Shoot in the Morning
Arrive early (before 10 AM) for soft light. Midday sun creates harsh shadows in the canyon. The first waterfall faces west - morning light hits it beautifully.
Protect Your Gear
Waterfall mist and spray will damage electronics. Bring a dry bag or zip-lock bags. Microfibre cloth for wiping lenses frequently.
Include People for Scale
The waterfalls look most impressive with a person in frame for scale. Ask fellow hikers if they mind being photographed.
Capture the Trail
The journey is as photogenic as the destination. River crossings, boulder hopping, and canyon walls make excellent documentary shots.
Wide and Tight
Shoot wide-angle for the full waterfall context, then zoom in tight for water detail and rock textures. Both perspectives tell the story.
Waterfall Adventure
Ready to Chase Waterfalls?
Book a guided tour to Setti Fatma waterfalls with expert local guides, private transport from Marrakech, and lunch at a riverside restaurant.