Exploring the Serene Beauty of Ourika Valley, Morocco

Finding Oasis in Ourika Valley

Today, Hans and I ventured deeper into the heart of Morocco, leaving the vibrant city of Marrakech behind for the serene embrace of the Ourika Valley. It was a day filled with the soothing sounds of cascading water, the vibrant colors of Berber craftsmanship, and the warmth of Moroccan hospitality. I was eager to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness that this valley promised.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Jnane Ayam Atlas. The setting was simply magical. We sat surrounded by lush greenery, with the Atlas Mountains providing a majestic backdrop. I savored a traditional Moroccan breakfast of msemen (pancakes), honey, and mint tea. Hans, ever the adventurous eater, tried a tagine even for breakfast! It was the perfect start to fuel our explorations.


Discover tranquility and organic delights at Jnane Ayam Atlas in the breathtaking Ourika Valley.

After breakfast, we set off to explore the highlight of the day: the Setti Fadma waterfalls. The village of Setti Fadma itself is nestled high in the Atlas Mountains, a charming Berber settlement that serves as the gateway to the famous cascades. As we began our trek, the air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from the city. The path to the waterfalls was an adventure in itself, winding alongside the Ourika River. We passed local Berber women selling handmade crafts and children playing in the water. The energy of the valley was infectious.


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

The hike was more challenging than I anticipated. The terrain was rocky and uneven, and at times, we had to cross makeshift bridges over the rushing stream. I was grateful for my hiking boots, one of the essentials I remembered to pack. Hans, of course, took it all in stride, his long legs easily navigating the path. We only made it to the first of the seven waterfalls, but it was well worth the effort. The water cascaded down the rocks with a thunderous roar, creating a refreshing mist that cooled us instantly. We took some time to simply sit and enjoy the natural beauty, the sound of the water a soothing balm to our souls.

The beauty of Ourika Valley lies not just in its landscapes, but in the warmth and resilience of its people, who have carved a life of beauty and simplicity amidst the rugged mountains.

After our waterfall adventure, we were ready for lunch. We stopped at Café Restaurant Azaghar Ourika. The café is known for its traditional Moroccan dishes and its lovely setting. We sat on the terrace, enjoying a delicious tagine while overlooking the valley. The tagine was flavorful and aromatic, cooked with fresh, local ingredients. Hans particularly enjoyed the Berber tagine, a local specialty. It was the perfect spot to relax and refuel after our hike.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine in the heart of Ourika Valley at Café Restaurant Azaghar – where flavor meets breathtaking views.

With our bellies full, we decided to immerse ourselves in the local culture with a visit to the Khalid Tafza Ourika pottery workshop. I’ve always been fascinated by pottery. I even took a pottery class in Berlin last winter, though my creations were… less than impressive. The workshop was a vibrant space filled with colorful ceramics and the rhythmic sounds of artisans at work. We were given a tour of the workshop and learned about the traditional techniques used to create the beautiful pottery.


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

Then came the best part: we got to try our hand at the pottery wheel. It was much harder than it looked! My first attempt resulted in a wobbly, misshapen lump of clay. Hans, surprisingly, had a natural talent for it. He quickly fashioned a small bowl, much to my amusement and slight envy. The artisans were patient and encouraging, offering tips and guidance. I eventually managed to create a somewhat presentable vase, which I proudly purchased as a souvenir.

Before heading back, we had dinner at Dar Hafida. It was a cozy, family-run restaurant known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine. We enjoyed a tagine with seasonal vegetables. It was a comforting and satisfying meal, a perfect end to a day filled with exploration and discovery.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine amidst breathtaking scenery at Dar Hafida in Ourika Valley.

As we drove back to our guesthouse, I reflected on the day's adventures. The Ourika Valley had exceeded all my expectations. It was a place of stunning natural beauty, rich Berber culture, and warm hospitality. I felt a deep connection to the land and its people. I am so glad I got to share this experience with Hans.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Anima, André Heller Garden, and Maison du meunier berbère. I am excited to see what other treasures the Ourika Valley holds. I’m also looking forward to perhaps having a drink at Café restaurant elJawhara vert [Café restaurant elJawhara vert]. It’s supposed to be a great place to relax and enjoy the evening. Until then, good night from the enchanting Ourika Valley!

While I remembered to pack my hiking boots, I realized I had forgotten my sunglasses. The sun was quite strong during our hike to Setti Fatma, and I ended up squinting for most of the way. Note to self: always double-check the essentials!

The visit to Khalid Tafza Ourika pottery workshop was also a great experience. I’ve always been interested in pottery, and it was fascinating to see the traditional techniques used by the Berber artisans. It was also a lot of fun to try my hand at the pottery wheel, even though my creations were far from perfect.

I was also intrigued by the Berber Ecomuseum, but unfortunately, we didn't have enough time to visit it. It's definitely on my list for our next trip to Ourika Valley. The ecomuseum showcases Berber artifacts, pottery, carpets, and photographs of Berber life in the High Atlas, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

I learned that the valley is easily accessible from Marrakech, about 30 km south of the city, making it a popular destination for day trips. The Ourika River carves through the High Atlas Mountains, creating a lush, green landscape that contrasts with the arid surroundings. The valley is dotted with Berber villages, where traditional ways of life are still practiced.

One thing that struck me was the ingenuity of the Berber people in adapting to the mountainous terrain. They have built their villages on the hillsides and terraced the land to create fields for agriculture. The houses are made of stone and adobe, blending seamlessly into the landscape.

The valley is also known for its argan oil production. Many cooperatives run by women produce argan oil, and we stopped at one of these cooperatives during our drive through the valley. We learned about the process of extracting the oil from the argan nuts and had the opportunity to purchase some of the products. It was a great way to support the local community and take home a unique souvenir.

As we prepare for our next day of exploration, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we had today. The Ourika Valley is a place that touches the soul, reminding us of the beauty and simplicity of life. I look forward to discovering more of its hidden treasures tomorrow.