First time in the mountains?
You don't need to be athletic or know the way. Guide Imad Ben Yahya picks an easy route for your level, sets the pace to match yours, and stays with the group from the first step until you are back.
Normal worries
Feeling nervous about the mountains the first time is normal. The answer is not to ignore it, but to walk with someone who knows the place and knows how to reassure you.
We start with a short route with moderate ascent, such as the Chrafat waterfalls: about 7 km and 300 m of climbing in about 3 hours. The guide sets the pace so everyone makes it, with regular breaks to drink and catch your breath.
Tell the guide before the hike. He will choose a route that suits you, avoid what worries you as far as possible, and stay with you on the sections that need care.
Rif paths are many and look alike; guide Imad knows them from walking them, not just from maps. The group walks together, and nobody is left behind.
The guide checks the forecast before every hike. If conditions are dangerous, the outing is postponed or the route changed, and we suggest another date or route.
Tell the guide before the hike about any injury or health condition that could affect walking; it stays between you. On the trail, the pace, the breaks and any decision to turn back early are set for the safety of the whole group.
To start with, comfortable walking shoes, enough water and a warm, waterproof layer are enough. Don't buy anything before asking the guide.
Routes for a first time
Two easy routes near Chefchaouen to start with, and a moderate one for those who have hiked once or twice.
EasyA short walk to a waterfall tumbling between rocks and greenery, ideal for families and beginners.
Trail details
EasyA riverside trail to the famous natural bridge, with clear pools and small waterfalls.
Trail details
ModerateA loop through cork oak and oak, springs and quiet mountain villages, away from the crowds.
Trail detailsNear Tetouan: Jbel Labyad and Jbel Dersa, two outings close to the city, easy to moderate.
Your first hike
No surprises: before you set off you know where you'll walk, for how long, and with whom.
Request my first hike
Who will you walk with?
Imad Ben Yahya is a professional mountain guide in Tetouan and Chefchaouen. He leads groups of 1 to 12 people, chooses the route to suit the group's level, works out distance, ascent and time, and checks the weather forecast before every outing.
He guides families and friends, associations and schools, and visitors from Morocco and abroad. You can walk with him alone, with people you choose, or join an upcoming group hike.
Before you decide
You don't need to be athletic. Easy routes such as the Chrafat waterfalls or Akchour require being able to walk for three to four hours at a gentle pace, with breaks. If in doubt, state your level in the booking form.
Yes. A group can be from a single person up to 12 people at most.
Guide Imad adjusts the pace and breaks to the group, and can decide to turn back before the end if needed. What matters most is that everyone gets back safely.
Tell the guide before the hike: he will choose a route that suits you and avoid what worries you as far as possible. Many easy routes run through forests and along rivers.
Yes, easy routes suit families; distance and pace are agreed according to the children's ages. Children remain their parents' responsibility throughout the hike.
No. The request is free; the booking is only confirmed after guide Imad replies and you both agree on the programme, date and price.
Get started
Send your request and say it is your first time. Guide Imad will suggest an easy route and a suitable date.