Cascades Ourika
Cascades Ourika is a waterfall area in a valley near Marrakech where the river flows in several stages over smooth rocks carved naturally into pools. The landscape combines green vegetation, stone-built villages on the slopes, and natural rock formations shaped by the flowing water.
Berber communities have lived in the Ourika valley for generations, building settlements based on agriculture and livestock farming in this mountain region. The river and waterfalls have always been central to local life, providing water for irrigation and daily needs since ancient times.
Berber villages throughout the valley show traditions in their stone houses and daily routines that visitors can directly observe. Women engage in traditional crafts like weaving and carpet making, while families use the river for washing clothes and cooling off after their work.
Start your walk early in the day to avoid crowds and wear comfortable hiking shoes since paths can be steep and slippery, especially after rain. Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the terrain offers little shade and weather can change quickly at higher elevations.
The valley is home to Barbary macaques that live in the trees and can sometimes be spotted on the walking paths. This is one of the few mountain regions in North Africa where these primates naturally survive.
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