A Pedacito Of Hiking To The Akchour Waterfalls In Morocco
Morocco is a captivating country with a unique blend of African, Arab, and European cultures. It is home to breathtaking landscapes, ancient cities, and impressive architecture. One of the highlights of visiting Morocco is exploring the country’s natural beauty, and the Akchour Waterfalls are a must-see. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about hiking to the Akchour Waterfalls in Morocco.
What Is Akchour?
Akchour is a small village located in the Rif Mountains of northeast Morocco. It’s about a 45-minute drive from the city of Chefchaouen, popularly known as ‘The Blue Pearl’ for its charming blue-painted buildings. The village is a hub for hiking enthusiasts, as it sits at the base of the Talassemtane National Park. The Akchour Waterfalls are the main attraction, and they are roughly a two-hour hike from the village.
How To Get To Akchour?
There are several ways to get to Akchour, depending on your location. Most visitors to the area start from Chefchaouen, which is popular as a day trip or as a stopover for those exploring the region. The easiest option is to hire a private taxi or a shared taxi (known as Grand Taxi) from Chefchaouen for around $20 to $25. Alternatively, if you’re feeling more adventurous, you can take a local bus from the city’s central bus station to Akchour, which is less than $1.
The Hike To Akchour Waterfalls
The hike to the Akchour Waterfalls is a moderate-level hike that takes about two to three hours, depending on your pace. The trail is well-maintained, and you’ll pass through picturesque forests, cross crystal-clear rivers, and witness the dramatic mountain scenery.
The first part of the hike is relatively easy, and it takes you through a forest of oak trees. You’ll pass several small waterfalls and streams before reaching the first bridge. From here, the trail becomes more challenging, as you start to climb up the mountains, with steep drops to the side.
As you get closer to the Akchour Waterfalls, you’ll reach another bridge called “La Pont de Dieu,” which offers a stunning view of the mountains and the river below. This is the perfect spot to take a break and take some photos before continuing to the final section of the hike.
After crossing the bridge, the trail becomes steeper, and there are a few more challenging rocky sections. However, the impressive sight of the Akchour Waterfalls in the distance will keep you motivated to push forward. The trail eventually brings you to a small village, where you’ll pay a small entrance fee before reaching the waterfalls.
The Akchour Waterfalls
The Akchour Waterfalls are a series of waterfalls, with the highest one reaching over 100 feet. The waterfalls are set against the backdrop of tall cliffs and surrounded by lush greenery. The water is refreshingly cool, making it an ideal spot to swim or take a dip.
You can spend as much time as you want by the waterfalls, admiring the natural beauty and taking in the serene atmosphere. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike further up the mountains to get even better views of the waterfall and valley below.
Conclusion:
Hiking to the Akchour Waterfalls is a wonderful experience that rewards you with stunning natural beauty and breathtaking scenery. The hike is a moderate-level challenge that is suitable for most people, and the waterfalls are a picture-perfect spot to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, wear appropriate footwear, and take breaks if you need them. So, if you ever find yourself in Morocco, make sure to visit Akchour.
