the north: asilah & chefchaouen & rif mountains & mediterranean coast
part of the series “mahendra’s morocco“
© mahendra myshkin 2025
Northern Morocco is dominated by the Rif Mountains, a region historically known for both resistance to central authority and for cannabis cultivation. Cannabis (kif) has been grown here since at least the 15th century and remains a central part of the local economy, with much of it processed into hashish for export to Europe. Despite periodic attempts at prohibition, cultivation has persisted and even expanded, making Morocco the world’s largest producer.
The Rif is also home to striking landscapes and historic towns such as Chefchaouen, with its blue-washed medina, and Asilah. Tourism and rural crafts have been promoted as alternative sources of income, but the dominance of the cannabis trade continues to shape both the economy and reputation of the region. East of Al Hoceima the tranquil Mediterranean coast offers pristine beaches upto Nador and Melilla.
