Rif Mountains

The Rif mountains run beside the Mediterranean for some 200km; while seldom higher than 1,800m, they are strewn with visual pleasures. Their mountains, cliffs and gorges, and cedar (some rare), pine/fir and holm oak slopes, inhabited by Barbary apes, interspersed with farmland and littered with traditional villages, make for interesting and enjoyable walking.

Wildlife includes eagles and other raptors, as well as boar and mountain goats and gazelles.

There is a huge selection of walking, from tough multi-dayers to day-explorations. Chefchaouen, in its mountain valley, is a popular and attractive centre and walking base, with restaurants, accommodation and guides/expedition firms.

Day walks near Chefchaouen:

Jebel el-Kelaâ: This 1,616m mountain north-east of Chefchaouen makes for a fine day walk, quite a bit of it high and gorgeous traverse. You can retrace your route or, better, descend by other trails.

Jebel Tissouka with the Sfika Telj Ridge. Another long day walk, south-east of Chefchaouen. Approach on a track from the south to the summit ridge (main peak at 2,122m) then head northwards along the high ridge to Sfika Telj.

Other Areas:

The Talassemtane National Park is particularly lovely. 

Multi-day walks:

Chefchaouen to Targa.

Chefchaouen to Bab Taza. A 4-5 day trek into the mountains East of Chefchaouen. Peaks to bag, slopes and ridges with big views, gorges and forests to enjoy, traditional villages to stay in. High pass at 1,800m.

North from Chefchaouen to the sea: a lovely trek of 5 days across the mountains to Bou Ahmed, a small fishing village on the coast. A justly popular route.

Beware of snakes and scorpions. This has been a drug (kif) growing area; travel carefully, best with a guide in some areas.

Winter is very cold and summer burningly hot. Spring and autumn are good times.

Once on trek, camping is usually the only option.

This page is at an early stage of development. Please help us by recommending your best walks and making suggestions and sending photos! Thank you!