The Ouzoud Waterfalls in Morocco
Morocco, though best known for its rolling sand dunes and Sahara desert vistas, also has some spectacular sights that one would not expect to see in a North African country. Consider the Ouzoud Waterfalls. The Ouzoud Waterfalls (or “Cascades d’Ouzoud” in French) are located in Morocco’s Azilal province, 95 miles north-east of Marrakech, and present a striking picture of beauty that is all the more surprising given the ruggedness of the surrounding country. Camel Excursions offer you some Morocco best tours that includes visiting the Ouzoud waterfalls.
Is it possible to see monkeys in Ouzoud Waterfalls?
Various Barbary macaques can be seen on your way down to the bottom of the Ouzoud waterfalls. These monkeys are mostly amiable and approach humans in search of food. To have meaningful interaction with them, however, you can buy some nuts at a local store, and believe me, monkeys love it!
The Ouzoud Waterfalls are a complex network of waterfalls that cascade into one another via three major drops and several minor drops. The waterfall chain stretches 330 feet from top to bottom. The brilliant white of the stirred-up water contrasts sharply with the El Abid river gorge’s rich red sandstone outcroppings. The Ouzoud Waterfalls, as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region, provide visitors with a variety of options for viewing this incredible natural wonder.
A path winds from the base of the falls between the ancient olive trees that gave the falls their name – “Ouzoud” means “olive” in Berber. There are a number of small roads that lead to the summit and then descend to the bottom for those who prefer a bird’s eye view. Keep an eye out as the sun sets: extended family groups of local monkeys visit the falls to play in the splashing waters and rising mists.
Local, regional, and national government bodies are spearheading conservation projects to protect the area and prevent its exploitation, as befits its importance to Morocco as a scenic destination and recognition of the fragile ecosystem surrounding the Ouzoud Waterfalls. If you are fortunate enough to visit the Ouzoud Waterfalls, perhaps as a side trip from a vacation in Marrakech, please do not litter. The preservation of the Ouzoud Waterfalls for future generations to enjoy is both a gift to future visitors and a mark of respect for your gracious Moroccan hosts.
Marrakech to THE OUZOUD WATERFALLS IN MOROCCO
Day excursion from Marrakech to Ouzoud Waterfalls – Itinerary:
Departing from Marrakech at 8:30, a day trip to the legendary Ouzoud waterfalls, which are about 100 meters high and are one of Morocco’s most outstanding natural beauty locations. It takes around three hours to get there.
The neighboring landscape features red cliffs, oleander and doves, and, if you’re lucky, some Barbary apes. Birdwatchers will enjoy a visit to the waterfalls, as would walkers who may enjoy the area at any time of year, with the exception of the hottest summer months of July and August.
There are numerous restaurants with terraces that offer views of the waterfalls. A short stroll will take you to the top of the falls, where you may gaze down at their full splendor and the river. The best view of the falls is from the bottom; it’s also terrific exercise, as there are over 1000 stairs!
We drive the six kilometers to Imi-n-Ifri, which means “entrance to the cave” in the local tongue, on the way back to Marrakech from Demnate. It is a natural rock bridge produced by the collapse of an underground cave system. The scenery is breathtaking as the Méhasseur River rushes between the sheer, vertical rock faces. Your full-day tour to the Ouzoud Waterfalls from Marrakech concludes in the late afternoon.
If you have two days available in Marrakech, you also can take an overnight desert trip to Zagora, like that you can enjoy the deert and it’ charming atmospher,