A Family Adventure in the Blue Pearl of Morocco: Chefchaouen

Akchour's Embrace: A Day of Nature and Nourishment

Today was a day of embracing the natural beauty surrounding Chefchaouen and savoring the delicious flavors of Morocco. It was a welcome change of pace after exploring the blue-washed streets, and I was excited to share the experience with my family. We traded the vibrant hues of the city for the lush greens and cascading waters of Akchour, promising a day filled with adventure and tranquility.


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

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Morisco. The weather in Chefchaouen was sunny, with a gentle breeze that hinted at the adventures to come. Aisha was particularly excited, having heard tales of the waterfalls and the possibility of spotting monkeys. Hans, ever the pragmatist, made sure we had plenty of water and sunscreen – essentials for a day of hiking under the Moroccan sun. As we enjoyed our breakfast, which included a delightful mix of Moroccan pancakes and fresh fruit, I couldn't help but feel grateful for these moments of family bonding amidst such a beautiful backdrop.

After breakfast, we set off towards Akchour Waterfalls. The drive itself was a treat, with the Rif Mountains unfolding before us in all their glory. The landscape was a tapestry of green hills and valleys, dotted with small villages that seemed to cling to the mountainsides. It was a stark contrast to the blue city, yet equally captivating. The roads were winding, and I was glad Hans was behind the wheel, navigating the curves with his usual calm precision. Aisha kept her eyes glued to the window, pointing out every goat and donkey we passed, her excitement palpable.

Finally, we arrived at Akchour. The air was noticeably fresher, and the sound of rushing water filled our ears. We started our hike, and the initial part of the trail was relatively easy, a gentle walk through the lush foliage. The path was well-maintained, and we passed several small waterfalls, each more enchanting than the last. Aisha, ever the curious explorer, insisted on stopping at each one, wanting to touch the cool water and examine the plants growing nearby.

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

As we continued deeper into Parc National de Talassemtane, the trail became more challenging. The ascent was steeper, and the terrain rougher, but the stunning views kept us motivated. The park itself is a hidden gem, teeming with diverse flora and fauna. I made a mental note to research more about the endemic species found here, particularly the Barbary macaque, which I was hoping we might spot. The weather was perfect for hiking, with temperatures hovering in the mid-20s Celsius and a clear sky above us. We took several breaks, catching our breath and soaking in the panoramic vistas. I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment as we climbed higher, the air growing crisper and the scenery more dramatic.


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

About halfway to the main waterfall, we stopped for a refreshing break. A local vendor had set up a small stall, offering freshly squeezed orange juice and traditional Moroccan mint tea. We gratefully accepted, the cool drinks providing a welcome respite from the heat. Aisha, initially hesitant about the mint tea, took a tentative sip and declared it delicious, her face lighting up with a smile. As we sat there, surrounded by the beauty of nature, I felt a deep sense of peace and contentment.

The final stretch of the hike was the most challenging, but also the most rewarding. The trail wound its way through a narrow gorge, the sound of the cascading water growing louder with each step. Finally, we rounded a bend, and there it was – the magnificent Akchour Waterfall. The water plunged down from a great height, creating a misty spray that cooled our faces. The sight was simply breathtaking, a true testament to the power and beauty of nature.

We spent a long time at the waterfall, taking photos and simply enjoying the spectacle. Aisha was eager to swim in the natural pool at the base of the falls, but the water was a bit too cold for her liking. Instead, she contented herself with splashing around near the edge, her laughter echoing through the gorge. Hans and I sat on a nearby rock, watching her play and marveling at the scene before us. It was a perfect moment, one that I knew we would cherish for years to come.

After working up quite an appetite, we made our way to Chez Aziz for lunch. We were ready for some traditional Moroccan fare. Fortunately, it wasn't too far from the falls and was a welcome break from the hike. The restaurant was bustling with activity, but we managed to find a cozy table in a corner. We ordered a tagine, couscous, and some grilled meats, eager to replenish our energy after the long hike. The food was delicious, a flavorful blend of spices and aromas that epitomized Moroccan cuisine. Aisha, initially wary of the tagine, soon devoured her portion, declaring it her favorite dish of the trip so far.


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

As we savored our lunch, I reflected on the day's adventures. We had traded the blue streets of Chefchaouen for the green mountains and cascading waters of Akchour, and it had been a truly enriching experience. We had hiked, explored, and discovered the natural beauty of Morocco, and we had savored the delicious flavors of Moroccan cuisine. Most importantly, we had spent quality time together as a family, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Our final stop for the day was at BILMOS for dinner. I had heard great things about this place, particularly its vegan options, and I was curious to try it out. The restaurant had a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. We ordered a variety of dishes, including a vegetable tagine, a vegan panini, and some customized crepes for Aisha. The food was exceptional, fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Even Hans, a self-confessed meat-lover, was impressed by the vegan options, declaring the vegetable tagine one of the best meals he had had in Morocco.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Bilmos in Chefchaouen's vibrant heart - a culinary journey you won't forget!

As we walked back to our hotel, the stars began to appear in the night sky. The air was cool and crisp, and the silence was broken only by the sound of our footsteps. I held Hans' hand, and Aisha skipped ahead, her energy seemingly inexhaustible. I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey, for the opportunity to explore new places and cultures, and for the chance to share these experiences with my family.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Blue Medina Tours and the Grand Mosque of Chefchaouen, diving back into the cultural heart of the city. And perhaps, if we're feeling adventurous, we might even venture out to Restaurant Bar Chaouen for a nightcap. But for now, I'm content to simply savor the memories of today, the beauty of Akchour Waterfalls, and the delicious flavors of Morocco.

This trip has already been such a blessing, and as we approach the final days of our adventure, I'm excited to see what other treasures Chefchaouen has in store for us. It's amazing how a change of scenery and a bit of exploration can bring a family closer, creating bonds that will last a lifetime. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!