The Setti Fatma seven waterfalls hike
The seven waterfalls hike above Setti Fatma in the Ourika valley: difficulty, route, local guide, time needed, gear and precautions.
- Route: gorge above Setti Fatma, with a series of falls.
- Level: first waterfall accessible. Beyond it, you scramble over boulders and need sure footing.
- Guide: strongly recommended beyond the first waterfall. Agree the price before setting off.
Above Setti Fatma, the trail climbs a gorge with a series of falls, often called the "seven waterfalls". The first is within reach of most walkers. The next ones mean scrambling over boulders, being sure-footed and allowing more time, ideally with a local guide.
- Time: more than the free time on a group tour. A private tour or a night in the valley suits it better.
- Avoid: hiking after heavy rain.
What is the route above Setti Fatma like?
The trail leaves the village, crosses the river on footbridges, then climbs into a narrow gorge. After the first waterfall, the path gets steeper and less clearly marked: you move over rocks, sometimes using your hands. The falls are stacked up the gorge, each with its own pool.
How fit do you need to be for the Ourika seven waterfalls?
The first waterfall suits most reasonably fit walkers. To go higher, you need to be comfortable on rocks and not mind a few exposed passages. It is not a hike for toddlers or for anyone with a fear of heights.
Why hire a guide in Setti Fatma?
Beyond the first fall, the route is not always obvious and the passages change with the water level. A local guide from Setti Fatma knows the way and the safe spots. Agree on the price before setting off.
How much time to allow from Marrakech?
To do the whole climb without rushing, you need more time than the free time on a group tour. The private tour lets you arrive early and choose your return time. A night in the valley is also possible with a transfer from Marrakech.
Gear and precautions in the High Atlas
- Hiking shoes with a grippy sole.
- Water, snacks, a warm layer and a windproof jacket.
- No hiking in the gorge after heavy rain: the water can rise fast.
If you are only going to the first fall, read our guide to the Setti Fatma waterfalls.
Frequently asked questions about Ourika
Are the Setti Fatma seven waterfalls difficult?
The first is accessible. The next ones require sure footing and confidence on rocks.
Do you need a guide for the Ourika waterfalls?
It is strongly recommended beyond the first waterfall.
Can you do the waterfall hike on the Ourika group tour?
The free time on the group tour is mainly enough for the first waterfall. To go higher, choose the private tour.
What is the best season for the Ourika waterfall hike?
Spring for the fullest waterfalls, summer for the cool air. Avoid stormy days.
Fancy going? Discover our Ourika day trip from Marrakech, or compare the Ourika Valley group tour and the private Ourika Valley tour.
