Tucked into the foothills of Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains, the village of Setti Fadma is known for its lush valley views, cool mountain air, and a waterfall hike that draws visitors from Marrakech and beyond. We made the trip to stretch our legs and explore nature—but what we found was more than just a scenic walk.
In this post, we’ll share what to expect on the Setti Fadma waterfall hike, along with tips for enjoying the trail and exploring the town.
Setti Fadma
The popular Waterfall Hike draws visitors to the town, but this small Berber community is also known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine served in creek-side restaurants. The aroma of Moroccan spices and steaming tagines wafted in the air as we approached, and we were immediately mesmerized by the scene in front of us. Splashes of pinks, oranges, and turquoise, scattered amongst the vivid green landscape, were the first signs of this unique town. Small wooden bridges, some more sturdy than others, were used by patrons to cross the water to the many restaurants. Once on the other side, nestled in the rock bed beside a flowing stream, tables and chairs, with brightly coloured carpets and pillows, created the perfect space to enjoy lunch.
Tips for Hiking the Falls
We decided to hike the Waterfall Trail before indulging our appetites. Finding the entrance point to the hike was a bit tricky at first. We drove through the town and parked at the furthest lot, then walked up and behind the restaurants in search of the Waterfall Trail.
• There are seven cascading waterfalls in the area. However, most tourists coming for a day trip just make their way to the first waterfall.
• Beware of locals offering to guide you to the falls. It’s not necessary. The first waterfall is easy to find and hike without a tour.
• Look for arrows and the word “cascade” painted in blue on rocks and sides of buildings to lead you to the entrance point of the hike.
First Waterfall
The first waterfall is a moderate hike. There are some steep stairs to climb and a couple of areas that require a bit of balance as you navigate over the stream and a few unsteady rocks. Once at the waterfall, there is a juice stand to enjoy a cool beverage as you take in the sights and snap your pictures.
• Roundtrip is about 50 minutes plus time spent at the falls.
• The trail can be busy. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, consider going early in the morning before buses arrive.
Second Waterfall
We decided to attempt the hike to the second waterfall but soon turned back as the trail was very steep, with small landings and unprotected ledges with vertical drop-offs. This route is perhaps more appropriate for the experienced hiker or at least for those without a fear of heights.
Enjoy a Riverside Lunch
Once you reach the town, find a spot at one of the cafes. Sit under the shade of the umbrellas or tree canopies and dip your toes in the cool refreshing water while you sip on some sweet mint tea or savour a steaming tajine. Whether you indulge your appetite before or after the hike, a visit to one of the restaurants will be a memorable experience.
Where We Stayed: Ourika
The small town of Ourika, located about an hour east of Marrakech, is a great place to base yourself while exploring the surrounding area. It has a laid-back atmosphere, with local markets to browse and plenty of small restaurants serving up delicious Moroccan dishes. Drive time: Ourika to Setti Fadma (45 minutes).
Looking for more hikes? Visit nearby, Imlil to trek the Atlas Mountains.
Accommodations
Sitting high on a hillside on the edge of town, the Airbnb we stayed in was an amazing find. Our spacious condo included a full kitchen, in-suite laundry, central heating (a rarity in Morocco), and a large patio overlooking Ourika Valley. The complex is located within walking distance of town and has a communal pool with lounge chairs to relax in. Our hosts provided everything we needed and even went above and beyond to help us fix a flat tire.
Where We Ate
For the most part, we cook our meals. Being a relatively small town, Ourika didn’t have a large grocery store. Instead, we shopped at the local butcher shops, bakeries, and produce markets. We did splurge one night and went to Le Murailles d’Ourika, recommended by our hosts. If you’re looking for authentic Moroccan food or a little taste of home, Le Murailles d’Ourika is the place to visit. We enjoyed a delicious beef tajine with homemade bread while the kids devoured a pizza made with Moroccan spiced tomato sauce and Banana Nutella crepes.
The Charm of Setti Fadma
Setti Fadma may be a popular day trip, but it still feels like a hidden gem tucked into the mountains. Whether you’re hiking to the waterfalls, enjoying lunch by the river, or wandering through the village, it’s a peaceful escape from the bustle of Marrakech—and a memorable stop for anyone exploring the Ourika Valley.
Looking for More Places to Explore in Morocco?
Check out these related posts to help plan your trip:
• 27-Day Morocco Road Trip Itinerary
• Exploring Marrakech Medina
• Exploring Dadès Gorge: A Family Hike the Monkey Fingers Trail
• Camel Trekking in the Sahara: A Family Adventure You’ll Never Forget
