Setti Fatma Waterfalls: Ourika Valley Hike from Marrakech

The Setti Fatma waterfalls are a series of cascades at the end of the Ourika Valley, about 1.5 hours from Marrakech. The walk to the first falls is short but rocky, and the riverside cafés make it a favourite escape from the city heat. This guide explains how to get there and how to plan the hike.

Quick answer: drive to Setti Fatma, then hike 30 to 45 minutes to the first waterfall with a local guide; the higher falls need more time and good shoes. The easiest way is our Ourika Valley private day trip.

Setti Fatma at a Glance

BookDetailsTip
From MarrakechAbout 65 km, 1.5 hoursLeave early in summer
Hike30–45 min to the first fallsRocky, wear good shoes
Seven fallsThe higher ones take 2–3 hoursOnly with a guide
Best timeMarch to June, September to NovemberWater levels are highest in spring

After heavy rain the river can rise quickly; follow local advice.

The Hike

Start in the village

Cross the river on small bridges from the cafés of Setti Fatma.

To the first waterfall

A short climb over rocks and paths; there are drink stalls on the way.

Higher falls

Steeper scrambling; go with a guide and only in dry weather.

Waterfall at Setti Fatma, Ourika Valley | cascada de Setti Fatma, valle de Ourika
Waterfall at Setti Fatma, Ourika Valley | cascada de Setti Fatma, valle de Ourika. Photo: Abbas9, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Combine Your Day

Ourika Valley

Stop at a Berber house and an argan cooperative on the way. Read our Ourika Valley day trip page.

Imlil instead?

For more mountain walking, choose the Imlil day hike.

Other day trips

See Ouzoud Falls and all day trips from Marrakech.

Tips

  • Wear shoes with grip; sandals are slippery on wet rocks.
  • Agree on the price before hiring a local guide in the village, or come with your own.
  • Avoid the busiest weekends in summer.

Plan your stay with 3 days in Marrakech.

Setti Fatma Waterfalls FAQ

How far are the Setti Fatma waterfalls from Marrakech?

About 65 km, or 1.5 hours by road.

Is the hike difficult?

The first waterfall is easy to moderate; the higher falls need more effort.

Can children do the hike?

Yes to the first waterfall, with care on the rocks.

When is the best time?

Spring, when the water flow is strongest, and autumn.

Do I need a guide?

A guide is recommended, especially for the higher falls.

Visit Setti Fatma from Marrakech

In short, Setti Fatma is the perfect half-day nature escape from Marrakech. Tell us your date and we will book your private Ourika Valley day trip.

Plan your trip: ask for a free quote, write to us on WhatsApp, or see the Ourika Valley day trip.