Akchour Waterfalls & God’s Bridge: The Ultimate 2026 Day Trip Guide

While the blue streets of Chefchaouen are magical, the real adventure lies 45 minutes away in the Rif Mountains. Akchour is a lush paradise of turquoise rock pools, towering red cliffs, and cascading waterfalls.

Whether you want a challenging 5-hour trek or a quick dip in a mountain river, this guide covers everything you need to know for a perfect day trip in 2026.

How to Get from Chefchaouen to Akchour

The most popular way to reach the trailhead is by Grand Taxi (shared taxi).

  • Taxi Stand Location: Taxis leave from the area near the Police Station (Sûreté Nationale), just down the hill from Plaza Mohammed V. Note: This is not the main bus station (Gare Routière).
  • Cost (2026): 25 DH per person (~$2.50 USD) for a seat.
  • The Wait: Shared taxis only leave when all 6 seats are full. If you are in a hurry, you can "buy" the remaining empty seats to leave immediately.
  • Private Hire: You can hire a private taxi for roughly 150–200 DH one way.
Pro Tip: Start your day early! Aim to leave Chefchaouen by 9:00 AM. Shared taxis are easier to find in the morning, and you’ll beat the afternoon heat.

The Two Main Routes: Which one should you choose?

Once you arrive at the Akchour dam (the "Barrage"), the path splits. You have two very different options:

Route A: The Grand Waterfall (Oued Kelaa)

This is the "classic" hike. It follows the river through a forested valley.

  • Time: 4–5 hours round trip.
  • Difficulty: Moderate (steady incline, some slippery rocks).
  • Highlights: You’ll pass several "Petite Cascades" before reaching the massive 100-meter Grand Waterfall.
  • Best for: Hikers who want a full-day immersion in nature.

Route B: The Bridge of God (Oued Farda)

A shorter but more dramatic hike leading to a massive natural stone arch.

  • Time: 2–3 hours round trip.
  • Difficulty: Moderate (the final climb to see the bridge from the top is steep).
  • Highlights: Standing under a 25-meter high natural rock bridge spanning the canyon.
  • Best for: Those with limited time or those who want to swim in deep turquoise pools.

Where to Eat in Akchour

One of the best experiences in Akchour is the "River Tagine." All along the trail, local families set up tables and chairs directly in the shallow parts of the river. You can soak your feet in the cool water while waiting for a fresh Goat Cheese salad or a steaming Tagine (approx. 60–80 DH).

2026 Essential Packing List

  • Footwear: Sturdy sneakers or hiking boots. The rocks are extremely slippery near the water.
  • Water: At least 2 liters per person.
  • Swimwear: Even in spring, the pools are tempting (though the water is always "refreshingly" cold!).
  • Cash: There are no ATMs in Akchour. Bring enough for taxis, lunch, and small tips.

Returning to Chefchaouen

Taxis wait in the main Akchour parking lot to take travelers back.

  • Warning: Shared taxis become harder to find after 5:00 PM in winter or 7:00 PM in summer. Don't wait until sunset to start your journey back, or you may have to pay for a private car!

Why this article will rank for you:

  1. Direct Answer: It answers the #1 question (How much is the taxi?) immediately.
  2. Comparison: The "Route A vs Route B" section helps users make a decision, which Google loves.
  3. Local Expertise: Mentioning the "River Tagines" and the specific taxi stand location shows "Real World Experience."

Next Step: Staying in Chefchaouen for the night? Check out our Top 7 Riads Guide to find the perfect place to rest your legs after the hike."