Rif War Tour: Abdelkrim El Khattabi And The Battle For Freedom

Tangier – The Gateway to History

Begin your journey in Tangier, a city with a rich and layered past. Our dirver will pick you op form your hotel or accomodation for the start of the tour.

• • Old Medina Exploration: Stroll through the bustling streets of Tangier’s historic medina, absorbing its mix of Arab, Berber, and European influences.

As you leave Tangier, marvel at the dramatic views of the Rif Mountains, an ideal setting for stories of resistance and resilience.

Souk El Arbaa – The Meeting Place of Tribes

This vibrant town was a key gathering point for tribes during the Rif War.

• • Market Visit: Experience the lively souk (market), where you’ll get a glimpse of local life and hear stories about its historical role in the resistance.

Chefchaouen – A Hidden Gem with a History of Resistance

Nestled in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen served as a cultural and strategic hub during the Rif War.

• • Kasbah Museum Visit: Learn about the city’s involvement in the Rif resistance and how its location provided a haven for Riffian fighters.

• • Cultural Walk: Wander the picturesque streets of this famous blue city and visit local artisan shops for traditional crafts like woven rugs and pottery.

Travel to Draa El Asef (1 hour)

Draa El Asef – Into the Rugged Rif

Arrive at Draa El Asef, where the surrounding mountains provided a natural fortress for guerrilla fighters.

Travel to Al Hoceima for overnighting.

Al Hoceima – A Coastal Stronghold

Start the day in this stunning coastal city, a key base for Abd el-Krim’s forces.

• • Rif War Memorial: Pay your respects at this monument, which honors the resilience and sacrifices of the Riffian people.

• • Coastal Walk: Take a brief stroll along the Mediterranean coastline and learn how it served as a critical supply route during the conflict.

• • Boat Trip: Set sail to see various attractions, such as hidden beaches, impressive cliffs, Moroccan islands still occupied by Spain, and small coves with turquoise waters.

Travel to Ajdir (30 minutes)

Ajdir – Birthplace of a Leader

Ajdir, the birthplace of Abd el-Krim, is central to the Rif War’s legacy.

• • Guided Tour: Visit Abd el-Krim’s family home and learn how he transformed from a local tribal leader into a global anti-colonial icon.

• • Lunch: Experience Riffian hospitality with a homemade meal featuring local delicacies, such as freshly baked bread, grilled vegetables, and marinated chicken.

Travel to Dhar Ubarran and Igueriben (2 hours)

Dhar Ubarran, Igueriben and Annual – Strategic Battlefields

• • Dhar Ubarran: Explore the rugged, mountainous terrain that served as a critical defense point for the Riffian forces. Learn about the strategies used to outmaneuver the better-equipped colonial armies.

• • Igueriben Siege Site: Visit the remains of the Spanish fort where one of the war’s most dramatic sieges unfolded. Hear vivid accounts of the events and the significance of this site in turning the tide of the war.

• • Battle of Annual Site: Walk the battlefield where Abd el-Krim’s forces dealt a devastating blow to the Spanish military in 1921. Learn about the tactical genius that led to this victory, which shocked the world.

Travel to Nador for overnighting.

Nador – A City of Contrasts

• • City Tour: Explore this bustling port city, which played a significant role in colonial logistics during the war.

• • Lunch: Enjoy Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a seaside restaurant, such as freshly grilled fish or pastilla.

Travel to Atlaten, Ras Medua, and Monte Gurugu (1.5 hours)

Scenic and Strategic Points

• • Atlaten: Discover this key resistance point, where the landscape itself became a weapon for the Riffian forces.

• • Monte Arruit Fort: Visit the site of one of the war’s darkest moments, where thousands of Spanish soldiers were killed after surrendering. Reflect on the human cost of war amidst the ruins of the fort.

• • Ras Medua: Visit this panoramic lookout used during the conflict, offering sweeping views of the Rif.

• • Monte Gurugu: Explore the Spanish fortifications on this iconic mountain, which served as a defensive outpost for Melilla.

Travel to Melilla (30 minutes)

Melilla – A Colonial Stronghold

Conclude your journey in Melilla, a historic Spanish enclave.

• • Historical Center Tour: Visit the old fortifications, the military museum, and the Plaza de España, reflecting the city’s colonial legacy.

• • Farewell Dinner: Celebrate the end of your adventure with a traditional Spanish-Moroccan meal, blending flavors from both cultures.