Solo Journey to the Heart of Ourika Valley

A Day of Discovery in the Ourika Valley

Today was a day of sensory overload in the best possible way. The Ourika Valley, with its vibrant landscapes and rich Berber culture, truly captivated me. Leaving the city behind, I found myself immersed in a world where the air is fresher, the colours are brighter, and the traditions run deep. It's a place where you can feel the pulse of Morocco in every step you take.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Aghbalou House. Fuelling up with traditional Moroccan pastries and strong coffee was essential for the adventures that lay ahead. The plan for today was ambitious, to explore the famous Setti Fatma waterfalls, learn about saffron cultivation, and immerse myself in the local culture with a pottery workshop. I was excited to see how much I could experience in a single day and I knew I wouldn't be disappointed.

The drive to Setti Fatma was a scenic treat in itself. The road wound its way through the valley, with stunning views of terraced fields, fruit orchards, and Berber villages clinging to the hillsides. I couldn’t help but think how different this was from Toronto, and how much I appreciated the shift in pace and scenery. It was a reminder of the simple, yet profound beauty that exists in the world, a beauty I am so grateful to witness. The weather was perfect, a balmy temperature with a gentle breeze, ideal for hiking.

Arriving at Setti Fatma, the last accessible village by paved road in the valley, I was immediately greeted by the lively atmosphere. The village is nestled amongst the High Atlas peaks. Locals and tourists bustled about, and the sound of the Ourika River filled the air. I hired a local guide, a friendly Berber man named Hassan, who knew the trails like the back of his hand. Hassan was very helpful and ensured I was able to navigate the terrain safely and comfortably. He shared insights into the local ecology and Berber traditions.

The hike to the waterfalls was invigorating. The path meandered alongside the river, crossing over makeshift bridges and rocky terrain. The first few cascades were easily accessible, but as we climbed higher, the trail became more challenging. I had to clamber over rocks and wade through shallow pools. It was a bit of a workout, but the stunning views made it worthwhile.

Reaching the seventh waterfall was a triumphant moment. The cascading water plunged into a refreshing pool below, and the surrounding mountains created a dramatic backdrop. It was the perfect spot to take a break, soak in the scenery, and appreciate the raw beauty of nature. I took some photos, capturing the moment, and then sat for a while, simply listening to the sounds of the water and the wind. It was a meditative experience, a chance to clear my head and reconnect with myself. The refreshing spray from the falls was very welcome given the heat.


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

The beauty of the Ourika Valley lies not just in its landscapes, but in the way it connects you to the earth and its people.

After the hike, I was ready for lunch. Hassan led me to Café Restaurant Azaghar Ourika, where I enjoyed a delicious tagine with a view of the river. Eating traditional Moroccan food while sitting by the water was a delightful experience. It was a moment to savour the flavours of the local cuisine and reflect on the morning's adventures. I made sure to try some traditional mint tea as well, a refreshing and essential part of the Moroccan experience.

In the afternoon, I visited Paradis du Safran, a saffron farm in the heart of the Ourika Valley. This visit was a delightful sensory experience. Christine Ferrari, a Swiss woman with a passion for saffron, established this unique paradise. She gave me a tour of the farm, explaining the cultivation process and the many uses of this precious spice.


Experience the beauty of saffron cultivation in the stunning Ourika Valley of Morocco, a unique blend of nature and culture awaits.

The fields were beautiful, filled with vibrant purple flowers. Although saffron is typically harvested in the autumn, the gardens were still lush and full of life. Christine explained that saffron is not just a spice, but also a part of the cultural heritage of Morocco. She employs local Berber people during harvest season, providing them with a valuable source of income.

I learned how to distinguish between real and fake saffron, and I even got to try some saffron-infused tea and dishes. The subtle, yet distinct flavour of saffron added a unique touch to everything I tasted. I purchased some saffron to take home, eager to experiment with it in my own cooking. It will be a lovely reminder of my time in the Ourika Valley. Before leaving, I made sure to explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the saffron fields, filled with herbs, medicinal plants, and exotic flowers.

My final stop of the day was the Khalid Tafza Ourika pottery workshop. Eager to immerse myself further in Berber culture, I was excited by the prospect of trying my hand at a traditional craft. Khalid, a skilled artisan, welcomed me warmly and introduced me to the art of Moroccan pottery.


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

He showed me the traditional techniques, using a simple pottery wheel and hand tools. I sat at the wheel and attempted to mould a piece of clay into a bowl. It was much harder than it looked! Khalid patiently guided me, helping me to shape the clay and create a somewhat presentable piece. It was a fun and rewarding experience, and I gained a newfound appreciation for the skill and artistry of pottery.

Before heading back to my guesthouse, I had dinner at Dar Hafida, enjoying a final taste of Moroccan cuisine. Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences I had. The Ourika Valley had exceeded my expectations, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and personal connection. It was a day I would cherish forever.


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

Tomorrow, I plan to explore the Maison du meunier berbère and Anima (André Heller Garden). I'm looking forward to discovering more hidden gems in this enchanting region. Before that, I'm hoping to get a good night's sleep, but I am still excited to see what tomorrow holds!

The Ourika Valley has a gentler climate than Marrakech. In June, the weather is generally hot, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 30°C to 35°C. The evenings can be cooler, especially at higher altitudes. It's important to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.

The Berber people are the dominant inhabitants of the Ourika Valley. They speak a dialect called TaChelhit. They have a rich history and vibrant traditions. Visitors have the opportunity to engage with locals, explore traditional markets, and partake in Berber tea ceremonies.

The Berber Ecomuseum in Tafza is a treasure house of Berber culture. It showcases Berber artifacts, pottery, carpets, and photographs of Berber life. Khalid, a charming young man, provides guided tours and interpretations of Berber symbolism.

Staying in local guesthouses and riads offers a more authentic Moroccan experience. Many accommodations are strategically situated to offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Dining in the Ourika Valley is a culinary delight, with a variety of traditional Moroccan dishes to savour.