A Solo Journey into the Heart of Ourika Valley

Finding Serenity in the Ourika Valley

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the raw, natural beauty of Morocco with the whimsical artistry of the human spirit. Leaving the vibrant energy of Marrakech behind, I ventured deeper into the Ourika Valley, a place where the Atlas Mountains meet Berber culture in a stunning display of life and landscape. My soul needed a bit of both, and the valley delivered in spades.

My day started with a hearty breakfast at Aghbalou House. The warmth of the morning sun and the promise of adventure were the perfect complements to the traditional Moroccan fare. I savored every bite, knowing I'd need the energy for the day ahead. The views from Aghbalou House were simply stunning, a panorama of the valley that stretched out before me like a living painting.


Experience the beauty of Ourika Valley at Aghbalou House—where family-friendly hospitality meets Moroccan charm.

After breakfast, I set off towards Setti Fadma, the last village accessible by road in the valley, and the jumping-off point for my hike to the famed Seven Waterfalls. The drive itself was an experience, with the road winding alongside the Ourika River, passing through small villages and lush landscapes. The promise of cool, cascading water was a welcome thought in the August heat.


Explore Setti Fadma, a stunning oasis in Ourika Valley, where cascading waterfalls and vibrant culture create an unforgettable Moroccan experience.

Arriving in Setti Fadma, I was immediately immersed in the bustling energy of the village. The air was filled with the sounds of Berber music, the scent of grilling meats, and the vibrant colors of local crafts. Though I usually travel with Pieter, I found myself quite comfortable navigating the lively atmosphere solo.

The hike to the waterfalls began innocently enough, a gentle climb along a well-worn path. However, it soon became clear that reaching all seven waterfalls would require a bit more effort. The path grew steeper, the rocks more slippery, and the river crossings more frequent. I found myself scrambling over boulders, hopping across stones, and even wading through the cool water at times.

Despite the challenges, the hike was exhilarating. The higher I climbed, the more rewarding the views became. The valley stretched out behind me, a tapestry of green fields and red earth, while the Atlas Mountains loomed majestically in the distance. The sound of the rushing water grew louder, urging me onward.

Reaching the first waterfall was a moment of pure bliss. The cool spray on my face was incredibly refreshing, and the sight of the water cascading down the rocks was simply mesmerizing. I took some time to rest and soak in the beauty of the surroundings, feeling a sense of accomplishment and gratitude.

I decided to continue on, eager to see what the other waterfalls had in store. The trail became even more challenging, and I was grateful for my hiking boots and my trusty reusable water bottle, though I did regret forgetting my sunscreen. After a bit more scrambling and climbing, I reached the second waterfall, which was even more impressive than the first. I pressed on, determined to reach at least a few more.

I eventually made it to the third waterfall before deciding to turn back. I knew that attempting to reach all seven would require more time and energy than I had anticipated. Besides, I wanted to save some time for my next stop: Anima Garden.


Discover the enchanting Anima Garden in Marrakech, a botanical paradise filled with vibrant flora, art, and tranquility, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are found not at the destination, but along the winding path that leads you there.

After descending from the waterfalls, I treated myself to a well-deserved lunch at Restaurant La Nature. The restaurant was a welcome oasis of calm, with its tranquil setting and delicious Moroccan cuisine. I savored a flavorful tagine, enjoying the stunning views of the valley while I ate. It was the perfect way to refuel before my next adventure.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine amidst breathtaking landscapes at Restaurant La Nature in Ourika Valley.

With my belly full and my spirits high, I made my way to Anima Garden, a botanical space created by artist André Heller. I had heard whispers of this magical place, where art and nature intertwine in a whimsical dance, and I was eager to experience it for myself.

As soon as I stepped through the gates of Anima Garden, I was transported to another world. Towering sculptures rose from the lush vegetation, their forms both familiar and fantastical. Water features gurgled and splashed, creating a soothing soundtrack to my exploration. The air was thick with the scent of flowers, and the light filtered through the leaves in dappled patterns.

I wandered through the garden, marveling at the creativity and imagination that had gone into its creation. I encountered works by Picasso and Keith Haring, as well as pieces by local Moroccan artists. Each sculpture seemed to tell a story, inviting me to contemplate its meaning and its relationship to the surrounding landscape.

Anima Garden was more than just a garden; it was a sanctuary for the soul. I felt a sense of peace and inspiration as I wandered through its pathways, surrounded by beauty and creativity. It was a reminder that art can be found in the most unexpected places, and that nature is the ultimate canvas.

As the day drew to a close, I decided to indulge in one more experience: a visit to Khalid Tafza Ourika pottery workshop. I've always admired the artistry of ceramics, and I was eager to learn more about the traditional techniques used in the Ourika Valley.


Discover the art of Moroccan pottery at Khalid Tafza Ourika, where tradition meets creativity in a stunning valley setting.

The workshop was a small, unassuming space, filled with the earthy scent of clay and the rhythmic sounds of the potter's wheel. Khalid, a master potter who learned the craft from his father, welcomed me with a warm smile. He shared his knowledge and passion for pottery, explaining the history and significance of the craft in Berber culture.

I even had the opportunity to try my hand at the potter's wheel, with Khalid's patient guidance. It was much more difficult than it looked, but I enjoyed the tactile experience of working with the clay. I didn't create anything particularly beautiful, but I gained a newfound appreciation for the skill and artistry of the local potters.

For dinner, I chose Yassmine Restaurant & Cafe. The restaurant had a cozy, inviting atmosphere, and the menu was filled with traditional Moroccan dishes. I savored a delicious meal, reflecting on the day's adventures.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Yassmine Restaurant & Cafe in Marrakech – where tradition meets hospitality in every dish.

As I sit here now, back at my accommodation, the sounds of the Ourika Valley lulling me into a peaceful state, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences I've had today. From the invigorating hike to the waterfalls to the inspiring beauty of Anima Garden and the artistic immersion at the pottery workshop, it's been a day of discovery and connection. The Ourika Valley has a way of touching the soul, reminding us of the beauty that exists in both nature and human creativity.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore more of the local Berber culture with a visit to Maison du meunier berbère and Paradis du Safran Maroc. I might even stop by Café restaurant elJawhara vert for a refreshing drink. I’m excited to see what new adventures await!

It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel, to connect with different cultures and landscapes, and to discover the hidden gems that lie just beyond the beaten path. Morocco, you have captured my heart once again !