As-salamu alaykum, friends! Today I want to share with you one of my favorite escapes from the scorching heat of Marrakech – the beautiful mountain village of Setti Fatma in the Ourika Valley. I recently found an amazing apartment for only 15$ that made for a perfect mountain getaway without breaking the bank!
The moment I arrived in Setti Fatma, Morocco, I felt the refreshing difference. While Marrakech was suffering under intense heat, Setti Fatma welcomed me with cool mountain air and the soothing sounds of flowing water. There's nothing better than sitting by a stream, listening to the water, and breathing in that fresh mountain air after escaping the city!
How to Get to Setti Fatma from Marrakech
Getting to Setti Fatma from Marrakech is easier than you might think. Here's how I did it:
- Find the taxi station: Head to Jemaa el-Fna square, near the Koutoubia Mosque. Behind the big yellow taxis, you'll find the white shared taxis that go to Setti Fatma.
- Choose your transportation:
- Shared taxi (Grand Taxi): 40 dirham per person
- Collective transport (Al-Khattafa): 25 dirham per person
I opted for the shared taxi since it was faster and still very affordable. The journey takes about an hour, and you'll be treated to beautiful views of the Atlas Mountains along the way.
Travel Tip: If you're struggling to find the taxi station, just look for the Koutoubia Mosque's minaret (tower) – the taxi station is nearby. You can't miss it!
My 15$ Apartment in Setti Fatma
When I arrived in Setti Fatma, my first mission was to find affordable accommodation. I was lucky to find a lovely apartment for only 15$ per night that exceeded my expectations!
What You Get for 15$
The apartment included:
- A small living room with a clean, comfortable sofa bed
- A bedroom with good ventilation
- A television
- A small kitchen with a refrigerator
- All necessary cooking equipment (pots, pans, tajine pots for traditional Moroccan cooking)
- Hot and cold running water
- A bathroom with shower and toilet
- Great location close to shops and restaurants
For 150 dirham (about $15 USD), this was incredible value! The apartment was perfect for 3-5 people, making it even more economical if you're traveling with friends or family.
Accommodation Tip: In Setti Fatma, renting an apartment is often better value than staying in a hotel, especially if you're with friends. Many local houses have been divided into apartments for tourists.
Hotel Options in Setti Fatma
If you prefer to stay in a hotel, I checked the prices for you. Most hotels in the center of Setti Fatma charge around 120 dirham per night. However, for just 30 dirham more, I think the apartment is a better choice since you get much more space and a kitchen.
Many guesthouses and hotels also offer beautiful terraces overlooking the river, which makes for a peaceful setting to relax after a day of hiking.
Exploring Setti Fatma Village
Setti Fatma is small but has everything you need:
- Village Center: You'll find cafes, restaurants, small shops for groceries, and the local mosque all within walking distance.
- Riverside Cafes: These are my favorite spots! There are beautiful cafes built alongside the river where you can sit and listen to the water flowing. It's incredibly peaceful.
- Local Markets: You can buy fresh produce and other necessities in the village.
The main street of Setti Fatma was surprisingly busy even outside of holiday season. Many Moroccans from Marrakech come here to escape the heat, as it's only about 60 km from the city.
The Famous Seven Waterfalls of Setti Fatma
The main attraction in Setti Fatma is undoubtedly the waterfalls. The area is known for having seven cascades, though most visitors only make it to the first and largest one.
The Hike to the First Waterfall
To reach the main waterfall:
- Follow the path from the village center (clearly marked)
- Walk for about 20 minutes along a scenic route
- Cross a few small bridges over the river
- Climb over some rocks (wear good shoes, not sandals!)
The path is relatively easy but does require some climbing over rocks near the end. I was happy to find that there was plenty of water flowing at the waterfall, making for a beautiful sight and great photos!
Safety Tip: If you're bringing small children, hold their hands during the climb. The rocks can be slippery, and I met a woman with children who was finding it challenging to manage the path.
Cafes at the Waterfall
At the main waterfall, there are several cafes where you can enjoy:
- Fresh juice
- Moroccan tea
- Coffee
- Tajines (traditional Moroccan stews cooked in clay pots)
There's nothing better than relaxing at these terraces, enjoying a mint tea while watching the waterfall and listening to the sound of rushing water. It's the perfect place for a break during your hike or to spend a peaceful afternoon.
Local Food in Setti Fatma
The food in Setti Fatma is delicious and reasonably priced. I visited a local restaurant run by a man named Abdel Rahim and his brothers, who prepared amazing tajines. Here's what was on the menu:
- Tajine with raisins (80 dirham)
- Vegetable tajine (90 dirham)
- Tajine with half a kilo of meat (130-140 dirham)
- Grilled meats
- Harira soup
- Traditional breads
Most restaurants in Setti Fatma specialize in tajines cooked over open fires, giving them a unique flavor you won't find in city restaurants. The combination of fresh mountain air and locally-grown ingredients makes the food taste even better!
Practical Information for Visitors
Parking
If you bring your own car to Setti Fatma:
- Daytime parking: 10 dirham
- Overnight parking: 20 dirham
During my visit, even though it wasn't a holiday period, the parking area was quite full. This shows how popular this destination is among locals!
Souvenirs
Along the path to the waterfall, you'll find many shops selling:
- Traditional Amazigh (Berber) clothing that you can rent for photos
- Local products like argan oil
- Saffron
- Almonds
- Handmade crafts
- Customized accessories with your name on them
These make for great souvenirs or gifts to take home.
Best Time to Visit
Setti Fatma is beautiful year-round, but I recommend:
- Spring: When the waterfalls are at their fullest
- Summer: To escape the extreme heat of Marrakech
- Weekdays: For fewer crowds (the place gets very busy on weekends and holidays)
Why I Love Setti Fatma
There's something special about Setti Fatma that keeps drawing me back. Maybe it's the contrast between the hustle of Marrakech and the tranquility of the mountains. Or perhaps it's the sound of the river that helps clear my mind.
I remember sitting at one of the riverside cafes, sipping mint tea and watching the water flow by. The sun was setting behind the mountains, casting a golden glow over the valley. In that moment, all the stress of daily life just melted away.
That's the magic of Setti Fatma – it's more than just a beautiful place; it's a feeling of peace that stays with you long after you leave.
My Tips for a Perfect Setti Fatma Trip
- Stay at least one night: While many people visit Setti Fatma as a day trip from Marrakech, I highly recommend staying overnight to fully experience the tranquility of the place.
- Wear proper footwear: The hike to the waterfalls requires sturdy shoes with good grip. Leave your sandals at the apartment!
- Bring a water bottle: Stay hydrated, especially if you're hiking to the higher waterfalls.
- Try the local food: Don't miss the opportunity to taste a traditional tajine cooked over an open fire.
- Respect the local culture: Setti Fatma is in a more traditional area of Morocco. Dress modestly and be respectful of local customs.
Have you visited Setti Fatma or are you planning a trip there? I'd love to hear about your experiences or answer any questions you might have! Leave a comment below and let's chat about this beautiful corner of Morocco.