Solo Journey through the Scenic Ourika Valley

Arrival in Marrakesh: A Sensory Overload

After months of planning and dreaming, my solo adventure through the Ourika Valley has finally begun! Leaving behind the familiar comforts of Berlin, I touched down in Marrakesh this morning, ready to immerse myself in the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Morocco. The air here is thick with the scent of spices, the sounds of bustling markets, and a kaleidoscope of colors that assaults the senses in the most delightful way. It's a world away from my quiet urban garden in Berlin, and I couldn't be more excited.


Discover the vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and enchanting atmosphere of Marrakesh, a must-visit destination in Morocco.

The flight from Berlin was thankfully uneventful, giving me ample time to pore over my travel journal and finalize my plans for the next ten days. I'm traveling solo on this trip, a decision I made to truly challenge myself and step outside of my comfort zone. Hans, my ever-supportive husband, was a bit apprehensive at first, but he knows how much this means to me. As an urban gardener and travel blogger, I'm always seeking new inspiration, and the Ourika Valley, with its lush landscapes and traditional Berber villages, seemed like the perfect place to find it. I plan to capture the essence of the valley through my photography and share my experiences with all of you.

Navigating the Marrakesh airport was an adventure in itself. The sheer volume of people, the insistent offers of taxi rides, and the general chaos were a bit overwhelming at first. But with a deep breath and a smile, I managed to find a local taxi that agreed to take me towards the Ourika Valley. The taxi ride was an experience, to say the least. The driver, a friendly man named Omar, spoke very little English, but we communicated through gestures and broken French, sharing smiles and laughter along the way. As we drove, the landscape gradually transformed from the dusty plains surrounding Marrakesh to the rolling hills and verdant fields of the Ourika Valley.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

My first stop was in Marrakesh for the day, as I wanted to soak in the atmosphere before heading into the valley. I started with breakfast at Restaurant Timalizen. It was a delightful spot, showcasing native plant species, which immediately appealed to my horticultural sensibilities. I enjoyed a traditional Moroccan breakfast of msemen (pancakes), honey, and mint tea, all while soaking in the peaceful ambiance of the garden. It was the perfect way to start my day and prepare for the adventures ahead. The server was very kind and gave me tips on what to see while in the city.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine in a serene riverside setting at Restaurant Timalizen in Ourika Valley.

After breakfast, I ventured into the heart of Marrakesh, exploring the Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The narrow, winding streets were a maze of shops, stalls, and workshops, each one more fascinating than the last. I wandered through the souks, marveling at the colorful displays of spices, textiles, and handicrafts. I even haggled for a beautiful hand-woven rug, a souvenir to remind me of my time in Morocco. The energy of the Medina was infectious, and I found myself swept up in the excitement of it all.

For lunch, I stopped at Cafe Restaurant TILILA GARDEN, a charming place adorned with trees and flowers. It was a welcome oasis of calm amidst the bustling city. I enjoyed a delicious tagine, a traditional Moroccan stew, while relaxing in the shade of the trees. The food was flavorful and satisfying, and the atmosphere was perfect for a midday break. I took photos of the plants and flowers, getting inspiration for my garden back home in Berlin.


Discover Café Restaurant TILILA GARDEN: A serene dining haven offering authentic Moroccan cuisine amid stunning landscapes.

In the afternoon, I indulged in some retail therapy at Ourika Chic. The shop was a treasure trove of unique Moroccan crafts and souvenirs. I purchased a few small gifts for Hans and my friends back home, as well as a beautiful leather journal to document my travels. Supporting local artisans is important to me, and I was happy to find a shop that showcased the talent and creativity of Moroccan craftspeople.


Experience authentic Moroccan fashion at Ourika Chic – a vibrant clothing store showcasing traditional and modern styles in the heart of Ourika.

As evening approached, I made my way to Chez Larbi Ourika Restaurant Maison d'hôtes for dinner. The restaurant is known for its authentic African and French cuisine, and I was eager to try it. The setting was beautiful, with a luxurious decor and a calm ambiance. I ordered a tagine, which was absolutely divine, and a glass of Moroccan wine. The staff was incredibly attentive and made me feel right at home. I was also fortunate enough to meet the owner, Larbi, who shared stories about the history of the restaurant and the local culture. It was a truly memorable dining experience.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Chez Larbi Ourika, where stunning views meet warm hospitality in the heart of the Atlas Mountains.

The weather in Marrakesh today was perfect for exploring. The sun was shining, and the temperature was comfortably warm, hovering around 23°C. According to the forecast, April in Ourika Valley typically has pleasant temperatures, with daytime highs around 20°C and lows around 7°C. There's also a chance of moderate rainfall, so I'm glad I packed my rain jacket, even though I forgot my portable phone charger.

Before heading to dinner I walked around the Jardin des Arts, and discovered that the Jardin'art Festival of Marrakesh is in town. The park was adorned with exhibitions, ephemeral sculptures and other magnificent floral displays. There were also concerts where local artists performed and created a very pleasant atmosphere.

As I reflect on my first day in Morocco, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude and excitement. The warmth of the people, the beauty of the landscape, and the richness of the culture have already captivated me. I'm eager to explore more of the Ourika Valley in the days to come, to discover its hidden gems, and to share my experiences with you.

Tomorrow, I plan to fully immerse myself in the Ourika Valley, visiting the Ourika Valley Waterfalls and exploring the valley itself. I've heard that the waterfalls are a must-see, and I'm looking forward to hiking through the lush landscapes and taking in the breathtaking views. I'll also be trying out some local restaurants, including La muraille de l'ourika for breakfast, Dar Hafida for lunch, and Restaurant La Nature for dinner. In the evening, I might check out Le Salama Sky-bar for a drink and some live music. I'm also keen to visit the Berber villages and learn more about their traditional way of life.

I'm especially excited about the prospect of connecting with the local communities and experiencing their authentic hospitality. As someone who values sustainable living and cultural exchange, I believe that travel is an opportunity to learn, grow, and give back. I hope to support local businesses, respect cultural traditions, and leave a positive impact on the places I visit. I am also excited to explore more of the local cuisine, and may try to book a food tour of Marrakesh.

For now, I'm settling into my charming guesthouse in Marrakesh, savoring the memories of my first day and dreaming of the adventures that await me in the Ourika Valley. The guesthouse is lovely, with a courtyard full of orange trees and a rooftop terrace overlooking the city. I can hear the call to prayer echoing from the nearby mosques, a soothing and melodic sound that lulls me into a sense of peace. I am looking forward to seeing what the rest of the trip will bring.

I am also very happy that I decided to travel in April. The weather is very pleasant, and I am also happy to have caught the Grand Prix Hassan II tennis tournament, and the Jardin'art Festival.

I can't wait to share my experiences with you as I continue my solo journey through the scenic Ourika Valley. Stay tuned for more updates, photos, and stories from Morocco!

Until then, as they say in Morocco, *bisous*!