Peaks between two tribes

Saying that a mountain “belongs” to a tribe simplifies a subtler reality. In the Chefchaouen mountains the summit itself is often the boundary: the line where the slopes meet is also the line where tribal territories meet. The mountain then becomes shared, attributed to one tribe without losing its link to the neighbouring one.

Jbel Lakraa: the highest peak of two tribes

The clearest example is Jbel Lakraa, at about 2159 metres. One slope belongs to the Beni Zejel and the other to the Akhmas, so it is the highest peak of both tribes. That is why the ranking of the highest peak of each tribe has thirteen tribes but only twelve peaks.

Talousis, the Beni Selmane summit

Jbel Talousis, at about 2005 metres, is the highest peak of the Beni Selmane and third in the ranking of Chefchaouen's tribes. It is also a natural boundary between two territories: attributed to the Beni Selmane, without its link to the neighbouring tribe being broken.

Taqlabt and Bab el Qarn: two near-twin peaks

Jbel Taqlabt, at about 1726 metres, is the highest peak of the Beni Mansour, and Jbel Bab el Qarn, at about 1722 metres, that of the Ghzaoua. They are only about four metres apart, and both can form a natural divide between neighbouring tribal territories, depending on the slopes and local boundaries.

The shared peaks in a table

Why this matters to hikers

Knowing these boundaries helps you understand what local people say. The village on the northern slope may name the mountain and claim it for its tribe, the village on the other slope may do the same, and both are right. Walking these mountains also means crossing human territories with their own names and memories. For good manners in the villages: hospitality in Rif villages.

Frequently asked questions