Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco with Friends

Day 7: Embracing the Wild Side of Chefchaouen

Today, I traded the blue-washed alleys of Chefchaouen for the vibrant greens of the surrounding Rif Mountains. It was a day of hiking, exploring, and immersing myself in the natural beauty that this region has to offer. I was eager to see what lay beyond the city walls, and I wasn't disappointed.

Our adventure began with a hearty breakfast at Hôtel restaurant La fuente. I opted for the traditional Moroccan pancakes with honey and a strong mint tea – the perfect fuel for a day of hiking. The friendly staff and cozy atmosphere made it a great start to the day. I knew I would need the energy for the adventures ahead.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine in the heart of Chefchaouen at Hôtel Restaurant La Fuente.

From there, we set off towards Parc National de Talassemtane. The drive itself was stunning, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the mountains. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from the city. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience this natural wonderland. The park is truly one of Morocco's most spectacular natural reserves, featuring an extensive network of hiking trails. I made sure to pack my camera, as I knew there would be plenty of photo opportunities.


Discover the breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife of Parc National de Talassemtane, a hidden gem near Chefchaouen in Morocco.

We chose a trail that led us towards the Waterfalls Akchour. The hike was moderately challenging, with some steep inclines and rocky paths, but the scenery was more than worth the effort. We passed through lush forests of cedar and fir trees, and the sound of running water grew louder with each step. I even spotted a few Barbary macaques swinging through the trees, which was a delightful surprise. The weather in March is ideal for this type of adventure, not too hot and not too cold.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Waterfalls of Akchour, a natural wonder in Morocco perfect for hiking and photography enthusiasts.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

Reaching the Akchour Waterfalls was like stepping into a different world. The cascading water flowed into serene turquoise pools, creating a picturesque oasis. Some of us took a refreshing dip in the cool water, while others simply relaxed and enjoyed the view. I spent some time taking photos, trying to capture the beauty of this hidden gem. The Akchour Waterfalls consist of both a lower and a taller waterfall, along with smaller cascades that run along the river. This is a must-see for any nature lover visiting Chefchaouen.

After our hike, we were famished. We headed to Chez Aziz for lunch. This charming spot offered a variety of Moroccan dishes, and we decided to try the tagine. It was absolutely delicious, cooked to perfection with tender meat and flavorful vegetables. The rooftop terrace provided stunning views of the city, making it a memorable dining experience. Chez Aziz has a history rooted in warm hospitality and is known for its commitment to excellence since 1992. I highly recommend it.


Experience the fusion of traditional Moroccan cuisine and international flavors at Chez Aziz in Chefchaouen.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Chefchaouen. Before heading back to the hotel, we decided to have dinner at Restaurant Terrasse Djebli. The restaurant is located in the heart of the Medina, making it a popular spot for tourists. Despite its touristy location, it offers a great view and a lively atmosphere. I ordered the grilled chicken, which was cooked to perfection. The mint tea was the perfect way to end the meal.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine amidst stunning views at Restaurant Terrasse Djebli in Chefchaouen.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how fortunate I am to be able to experience such incredible places. The Rif Mountains and Akchour Waterfalls are a true testament to the beauty of nature. It's moments like these that make traveling so rewarding. I feel refreshed and rejuvenated, ready for whatever tomorrow brings.

Tomorrow, we'll be exploring more of Chefchaouen itself, including Bab el Mahrouk and Bab Chaouen. I'm also looking forward to doing some shopping at the Chefchaouen copper and lamps shop. I can't wait to see what treasures I'll find!

Until then, goodnight from Chefchaouen!

P.S. I almost forgot! I ran into a fellow traveler today who mentioned the International Nomads Festival usually held in March. It celebrates nomadic culture with music, dance, and workshops. I'm sad to have missed it, but it sounds like an incredible experience!

Also, I found out that Ramadan will be starting soon. It is expected to start around March 1st, which means that the Eid al Fitr celebration, marking the end of Ramadan, will likely be on March 31st or April 1st. It's fascinating to learn about these cultural events, even if I can't experience them firsthand. I will keep an eye out for any local celebrations that may be happening during my stay.

I also learned a bit about the local climate. March in Chefchaouen typically brings temperatures between 46°F and 68°F, so warm clothes are definitely a must. There's also a good chance of rain, so packing a waterproof jacket is a good idea. Despite the cooler weather, there are still plenty of sunny days to enjoy the outdoors. The humidity can be high, especially in the mountainous areas, so staying hydrated is important.

I am also happy to report that I remembered to pack my adapter for Moroccan outlets today! After forgetting it yesterday, I made sure to grab it before leaving the hotel. It's the little things that make a big difference.

I am also excited about the prospect of learning more about the local flora and fauna. The Talassemtane National Park is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, including the rare Abies marocana (Moroccan fir). I hope to spot some more wildlife during my hikes and learn about the unique ecosystem of the Rif Mountains.