
moderate
2 days
Moderate fitness—able to manage a 15–90 minute uphill hike, uneven trails, and several stair sections.
A compact two‑day escape from Fes that pairs the photogenic blue medina of Chefchaouen with the limestone gorges and cascades of Akchour. Expect private transport, an overnight hotel stay, short town hikes, and a riverside trail through Talassemtane National Park.
You climb into a leather-upholstered car before dawn in Fes and the Rif Mountains unfold like a slow-motion revelation: olive groves give way to scarred limestone slopes, and then—blue—Chefchaouen’s compact medina glows against a shawl of morning mist. The driver eases into a lookout above the town; below, alleys ladder down between painted houses, cats patrol doorways, and steam rises from cafés where mint tea is already being poured.

Depart at first light to avoid midday traffic and to have cooler, quieter time in Chefchaouen and at Akchour.
Akchour’s trails include wet rocks and stream crossings—wear grippy hiking shoes to prevent slips.
Local vendors, tips, and small purchases in the medina often require Moroccan dirhams—ATMs are limited in smaller towns.
Even on cool mornings the Rif sun can be strong—carry 1–2 L water, sunscreen, and a hat for the hikes.
Chefchaouen grew as a 15th-century refuge for Andalusian exiles; its blue-painted medina reflects both practical and cultural practices brought by these settlers.
Talassemtane National Park protects rare Rif flora and river systems—stay on marked trails, avoid swimming in sensitive pools, and pack out trash.
Provides traction on wet stones and uneven trails at Akchour.
Keeps water, snacks, and layers accessible during hikes and town walks.
Useful in spring for sudden mountain showers and cool evenings.
spring specific
Protects from strong sun on exposed stretches of trail and viewpoints.
summer specific