09 Feb 2025
This was an incredible hike through the remote Rif mountains, through many different micro climates, up and over ridgelines, and along deep canyons. We saw several troupes of monkeys, fresh snow amongst towering pines, and endless vistas punctuated occasionally by Berber villages. We especially appreciated that we started the hike directly from the Chefchaouen medina.
The inns along the way were simple and rustic with piles of warm blankets and surprisingly hot showers. The food in Akchour was good but in Affaska the dinner and breakfast were exceptional.
Our guide, Najib, was helpful and happy to answer questions. He was unobtrusive and let us enjoy the hike by ourselves when we wanted to. Booking information beforehand was a bit sparse, so be sure to ask whatever questions via Whatsapp you need.
We kept track of some approximate information to help: First day is 12 miles, 1200 meters up then 600 meters down. Took us 7 hours. Second day: 9.5 miles, a little bit of uphill 600 meters down, 5.5 hours. Last day was very chill, 4 hours of hiking with not a lot of up or down, though you can do more if you'd like. We did the hike with our 8 year old and she didn't have a problem, though she is a pretty accomplished hiker.