The Ouzoud waterfalls or Uzud are found in the central part of Morocco and constitute one of the great attractions of the entire Middle Atlas, the mountain range that crosses the country vertically on its eastern side. They belong to the region of Beni Mellal-Jenifra and is located about one hundred and sixty kilometers from Marrakech.
In another sense, they constitute the head of the Ourika river, which bathes an entire fertile valley. This, in turn, reaches the Tensfit, already in the area of the aforementioned city, which is one of the most important in the country. As a curiosity, we will tell you that "uzud" It is a word of Berber origin that means "olive tree" and refers to the many that there are on the path that leads to the waterfalls. But, below, we are going to explain everything you need to know about the Ouzoud waterfalls.
What the Ouzoud waterfalls are like
One of the Ouzoud waterfalls seen from afar
Is seven imposing waterfalls including the highest in the entire country, with one hundred and ten meters. It is true that it does not fall freely, but in several sections. They form a privileged natural space, although modified by the hand of man, in which you can relax after visiting the area itself. Marrakech or the equally beautiful city of Beni Melal, which we will talk about later.
The flow of water that makes up the waterfalls comes, precisely, from the High Atlas. Likewise, they occupy a space that begins in the vicinity of the town of Tanaghmeilt, close to where the first and most accessible of them is. In this town, you also have numerous shops, bars and restaurants. Regarding the latter, we advise you to eat in one of those that They install their tables in the riverbed itself, so you can do it with your feet in the water. Even later, you can take a bath both in one of the backwaters and under the waterfalls themselves.
The route through the waterfalls
Artisanal tourist boats in the waterfalls
As we have already told you, the tour of the waterfalls begins in the town of Tanaghmeilt, where you have the parking. It is a town of traditional adobe houses. From its streets comes the path that runs parallel to the Ourika River and leads to the waterfalls. It won't be difficult for you to find it, as it is well signposted.
However, after a certain section, the path steepens and you will have to climb five hundred steps until you get to those. In total, it is about a twenty-minute journey punctuated by street vendors offering you all kinds of products. It is precisely at the base of the waterfalls where you can take a bath.
You will see that the water has a certain earthy tone, but it is not dirt. It is due to the clay that makes up the orange mountains that surround her. On the other hand, you should be careful with its temperature, which is not hot at all. Think it comes of the melting snows of the Atlas. You also have to be careful with the wild macaques that populate the area. They are not dangerous, but they will approach you in search of food and you are not the first to be upset by taking some of their property.
Furthermore, if you consider yourself a good hiker, you can follow the route to the last of the Ouzoud waterfalls. It is somewhat difficult and it is advisable to wear mountain shoes. Between round trip, it will take you about two and a half hours. But the really daring can continue along the path that descends through the impressive gorges of Wadi el-Abid, which, in some areas, have more than six hundred meters of elevation difference.
How to get to the Ouzoud waterfalls
The path up to the Ouzoud waterfalls full of street vendors
Normally, the visit to these spectacular waterfalls is organized from the aforementioned city of Marrakech. Although it is located, as we told you, about one hundred and sixty kilometers away, the road trip takes around two and a half hours. Keep in mind that these are narrow and winding roads and that driving in Morocco is not as easy as in Spain.
For all these reasons it is better that you don't do it. Hire some of the excursions that take you to the waterfalls. They will inform you at your own hotel. Alternatively, you can look for a trustworthy taxi driver who will not charge you a lot for the trip. Furthermore, in this way, you can organize the route to suit you, stopping at the places you want.
In any case, if you decide to travel to those in a rented car, you are interested in knowing that the best itinerary is to take the road N8 stop, before reaching Ayat me, deviate through the P3105, which takes you directly to the area. Also, once you arrive, you will see numerous guides who offer to accompany you. In reality, you won't need them, because the route is well signposted. However, if you wish, you can travel with one of them.
What to visit around Ouzoud
Kasbah of Bel Koush, Beni Mellal
We have already mentioned the town of Tanaghmeilt, where the route to the Ouzoud waterfalls begins. It is a small town lying on a hillside and made up of traditional houses built in mud. Many of them are berber houses, that is, typical of that mountain town. Many of its inhabitants will invite you to see them and have tea and then try to sell you some crafts.
On the other hand, about twenty-five kilometers away you have the Bin el Ouidane tourist complex, created around the reservoir of the same name. There you will find bathing areas, hotels, restaurants and even recreational spaces for children. You can also make beautiful hiking trails through the steep mountains. Likewise, if you enjoy the climb, this place is perfect to practice it.
Finally, on the route from Marrakech to the Ouzoud waterfalls you have the beautiful city of Beni Melal. Located at the foot of the Mount Tassemit Front of Talda plateau, has beautiful buildings from the French colonial era such as the St. Paul's Church. But, above all, you must visit the Kasbah Bel Koush, an impressive fortress built in the XNUMXth century that is located on a hill. And, just below this you have the no less spectacular Ain Asserdoun gardens and fountain. All this without forgetting its traditional medina.
In conclusion, we have explained everything you need to know about the spectacular Ouzoud waterfalls. If you travel to this beautiful area of Morocco, are an unavoidable visit. Get to know them and enjoy everything they offer you.