Coastal cliffs
Towering limestone.
Samirnova — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Abdou3622 — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Houssain tork — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Kokopelado — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Abdelhafid — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Rifipure — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Boudra2015 — CC BY-SA 3.0 · Boudra2015 — CC BY-SA 3.0
A national park created in 2004 west of Al Hoceima, covering about 480 square kilometres, 196 of them at sea, and taking in fifty kilometres of Mediterranean shore, some of the most unspoilt coast in northern Morocco, with towering limestone cliffs, rocky coves and a forested mountain interior. Barbary thuya, Aleppo pine, lentisk, wild olive, carob and dwarf palm grow here, and a large colony of ospreys nests on its cliffs. Three species of dolphin swim in its waters, sea turtles feed there, and its sea caves sometimes shelter the endangered Mediterranean monk seal. Highlights include Cala Iris beach with its small rocky islet, Rif villages scattered over the slopes, and trails that drop through stony ravines to secluded pebble beaches; hikers come to explore its mountains and shore. Entry is free, but the mountain roads are narrow and winding, some tracks are unpaved and need a suitable vehicle, and services are few, so bring water and food. Respect the park's rules: no fires, and do not disturb birds or animals.
Towering limestone.
Beach and islet.
A colony on the cliffs.
West of Al Hoceima on the Rif coast, Al Hoceima Province
By car from Al Hoceima along the coast road and mountain roads; plan a full day and bring water and food, as services are few.