Exploring the Blue Streets of Chefchaouen with Friends

A Day of Natural Wonders

Today was all about escaping the blue embrace of Chefchaouen and venturing into the raw, untamed beauty of Akchour. Lena and I, along with our friends, were eager to trade the city streets for mountain trails and the promise of cascading waterfalls. After several days immersed in the town, a day in nature felt like the perfect reset.



Our day began, as many do here, with a hearty breakfast at Sofia. I opted for the traditional Moroccan breakfast, a delightful spread of harsha, msemen, amlou, honey, jam, cheese, orange juice, and of course, the ubiquitous mint tea. It’s a carb-lover’s dream and provided the perfect fuel for our upcoming hike. Lena, ever the health-conscious architect, went for a simple yogurt with fruit. Fuelled up, we piled into our pre-booked taxi and set off towards Akchour. The drive itself was a treat, the landscape shifting from the blue-washed buildings to rolling green hills and the rugged Rif Mountains looming in the distance.



Arriving in Akchour, the air was noticeably fresher, crisper. The scent of pine and damp earth replaced the spices and hustle of Chefchaouen. We were immediately greeted by a throng of local guides offering their services. While I usually prefer to explore independently, the promise of insider knowledge and a helping hand on the potentially challenging trails convinced us to hire one. Plus, it felt good to support the local economy.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in guidebooks, but in the spontaneous detours and unexpected encounters along the way.

Our guide, a wiry Berber man named Ali, led us towards the trailhead. He spoke a mix of Berber, Arabic, and surprisingly good French, which made communication easy. The trail began gently enough, winding alongside a gurgling stream. The landscape was lush, with ferns clinging to the rocks and wildflowers dotting the path. It was immediately clear why Akchour is known as a hidden gem of Morocco. The crowds of Chefchaouen felt a world away. I made sure to keep my camera handy, snapping photos of the scenery and the occasional Barbary macaque scampering through the trees. I was glad I remembered my camera, even though I forgot my raincoat and power bank.


The hike to the first waterfall, the smaller of the two, was relatively easy. The path was well-worn, and Ali kept a steady pace. Along the way, he shared stories about the local flora and fauna, pointing out medicinal plants and explaining the importance of the forest to the Berber people. It was fascinating to learn about their traditional way of life, so intertwined with nature. The air was filled with the sound of rushing water, a constant reminder of the natural wonder that awaited us. When we finally reached the Waterfalls Akchour, it was a welcome sight. The water tumbled down the rocks into a clear, turquoise pool. Some of our group braved the chilly water for a quick dip, while others, including Lena and myself, simply enjoyed the refreshing spray and the stunning views.


After a short break, Ali suggested we continue to the larger waterfall, the Grand Cascade. This part of the hike was more challenging, with steeper inclines and rocky terrain. There were a few moments where I was grateful for my comfortable walking shoes. Lena, with her usual grace, navigated the path with ease. I was puffing and panting, but the thought of the grand waterfall kept me going. The trail wound deeper into the forest, the sunlight filtering through the trees in dappled patterns. We passed by several small waterfalls and pools, each one more beautiful than the last. The sound of rushing water grew louder, building anticipation for the main event.


Finally, after what felt like an eternity, we reached the Grand Cascade. It was truly breathtaking. The water plunged down a sheer cliff face, creating a thunderous roar and a cloud of mist that hung in the air. The pool at the bottom was larger and deeper than the first, and the surrounding rocks were covered in lush vegetation. It was a scene straight out of a movie, a hidden paradise in the heart of the Rif Mountains. I found a spot on a large rock and simply soaked in the view. Lena joined me, and we sat in silence, appreciating the beauty of nature. I took some photos, of course, trying to capture the majesty of the waterfall, but no picture could truly do it justice. It was one of those moments that had to be experienced to be fully appreciated.


The hike back was just as rewarding, the scenery taking on a different perspective in the afternoon light. We stopped at a small Berber stall along the way and enjoyed some freshly squeezed orange juice, a sweet and refreshing treat. As we made our way back to Akchour village, I felt a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. It had been a challenging but incredibly rewarding day, a perfect escape from the city and a chance to reconnect with nature.


Back in Chefchaouen, after freshening up at Hotel Casa Miguel, we decided to try Restaurant Hajji for lunch. I had heard great things about their tagines, and I was eager to sample some authentic Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with traditional décor and a friendly atmosphere. I ordered the lamb tagine with vegetables, while Lena opted for the chicken couscous. Both dishes were delicious, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. It was the perfect way to end our day of adventure.


As evening approached, we ventured to Cafe Clock for dinner. I had heard it was *the* place to be and I was curious. The cafe was lively, with a mix of tourists and locals enjoying the atmosphere. The food was tasty and well-prepared, with labeled vegan options. The prices were slightly higher than local-style restaurants, but the quality of food and service made it worth the extra dirhams. They even had live music! I opted for the camel burger, while Lena went for a vegan tagine. After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll through the blue streets of Chefchaouen, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. The city was even more magical at night, the blue walls glowing under the soft light of the street lamps.


Before heading back to our hotel, we made a final stop at Mandala for a nightcap. The restaurant served local Italian dishes in an environment with traditional Moroccan décor. It was a unique and wonderful blending of Moroccan and Italian ingredients creating unique and wonderful flavors. I ordered a glass of Moroccan wine, while Lena had a mint tea. We sat on the terrace, enjoying the cool evening air and reflecting on our day of adventure. It had been a perfect day, a blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and culinary delights. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a magical place.


Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Chefchaouen itself, including the Ethnographic Museum and the Grand Mosque. I’m also hoping to do some shopping for local crafts, something Lena is particularly excited about. But for tonight, I’m content to simply relax and dream of waterfalls and blue streets.


Discover the serene beauty of Akchour, Morocco, where breathtaking waterfalls and lush landscapes await your exploration.


Explore Chefchaouen: A Moroccan gem known for its stunning blue streets and authentic culinary experiences.


Explore the breathtaking Waterfalls of Akchour in Morocco, a stunning natural paradise with scenic hikes and refreshing waters that captivate every visitor.


Experience comfort and convenience at Hotel Casa Miguel, your perfect base in the heart of Chefchaouen, complete with wellness services and local cuisine.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Hajji in Chefchaouen – where every dish tells a story of local tradition.


Explore authentic Moroccan flavors and vibrant culture at Cafe Clock in Chefchaouen, where every meal is a journey through tradition.


Experience unique pizza flavors in Chefchaouen's enchanting atmosphere at Mandala – where Moroccan tradition meets culinary creativity.