Akchour Waterfalls | Chefchaouen

The Akchour Waterfalls are one of Morocco’s most enchanting natural wonders, located within the Talassemtane National Park in the Rif Mountains, about 30 km (a 45-minute drive) from the town of Chefchaouen. This area is celebrated for its unspoiled nature, crystal-clear rivers, dramatic cliffs, and lush greenery.

Here’s a detailed guide to the Akchour Waterfalls and the hiking experience:

Overview

The Akchour area features a series of waterfalls and scenic hiking trails. It’s divided into two main attractions:

The Lower Falls – Easier to reach, with natural pools and picnic spots.

The Grand Cascade (Big Waterfall) – A taller, more dramatic waterfall at the end of a longer and more challenging trail.

There’s also a third point of interest, God’s Bridge, a spectacular natural rock arch spanning over a gorge.

Trail and Hiking Routes

The hike starts at a small parking area near a café, where local guides and donkeys are sometimes available. The trail follows the Oued Farda River, which flows through a deep, wooded gorge.

To the Lower Falls

Time: About 45 minutes to 1 hour each way.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate.

Trail: Mostly flat with a few small inclines. The path runs alongside the river and passes through dense vegetation.

Experience: You’ll encounter small waterfalls, wooden bridges, and areas to relax by the water. The lower falls end in a small basin where people often swim, especially in summer.

To the Grand Cascade

Time: Around 2 to 2.5 hours each way from the trailhead.

Difficulty: Moderate to slightly challenging, depending on weather and trail conditions.

Trail: More rugged, with steeper climbs and uneven sections. It continues beyond the Lower Falls and ascends through rocky terrain.

Experience: The waterfall itself drops from a height of nearly 80 meters, framed by cliffs and forests. The power and echo of the water make it a memorable endpoint to the hike.

To God’s Bridge

Time: Around 1 to 1.5 hours round trip from the starting point.

Trail: A separate route that branches off from the main trail. It involves some steeper ascents and descents, and there may be sections requiring careful footing.

Experience: God’s Bridge is a giant natural rock arch over a gorge with the river running far below. It’s a popular stop for photos and can be included as part of a loop hike with the waterfalls.

Nature and Scenery

Flora: Oak, cedar, olive trees, and aromatic plants such as wild thyme and rosemary.

Fauna: You may see monkeys, wild goats, eagles, and various birds native to the Rif region.

Water: The river and pools are clean and usually cool even in summer. Swimming is common in the warmer months, though the water can be cold year-round.

Practical Tips

Footwear: Good hiking shoes or trail runners are essential due to uneven and sometimes slippery paths.

Water and Snacks: Bring plenty of water and snacks, although small stalls and cafés pop up along the trail during tourist seasons.

Timing: Early morning is best for a peaceful experience and cooler temperatures.

Seasons: Spring and early autumn are ideal for hiking. In summer it can get hot, while winter may bring muddy trails and more difficult terrain.

Guides: Not required but available at the start of the trail if you prefer company or want local insight.

Local Culture and Experience

Hospitality: Locals along the trail often set up small tea shops and offer snacks like msemen (Moroccan pancakes) or fresh fruit.

Eco-Tourism: Akchour is a protected area, so visitors are encouraged to respect nature, avoid littering, and stay on the designated trails.

Photography: The area is a paradise for landscape and nature photographers with its dramatic contrasts between forest, cliffs, and water.

Akchour Waterfalls are more than just a hiking destination—they’re a peaceful retreat into the heart of Moroccan wilderness. Whether you're soaking your feet in a pool beneath the falls or standing beneath the towering Grand Cascade, the experience offers tranquility, beauty, and a deep connection to nature.