Jbel Musa (Jbel Moussa) from Belyounech

Jbel Musa (also spelled Jbel Moussa) is the 850 m mountain on the Strait of Gibraltar coast of northern Morocco, one of the traditional Pillars of Hercules, and the standard route to its summit starts at the village of Belyounech in the Province of Fahs-Anjra, near the Ceuta border. Visitors reach Belyounech from Fnideq by grand taxi, a ride of about 10 km and 15 minutes that costs roughly 80-150 MAD. The paths start in the village, and no parking fee or permit is normally required. Because the area is close to the border fence and military zones, walkers must carry a passport and should not approach the fence or any military areas.

The round trip is about 12 km and takes 5 to 7 hours, with around 800 m of ascent to the summit. This places it in the moderate category: the climb is sustained, the footing is rocky, and the ridge near the top is exposed to wind and drops, but there is no technical climbing. The surface is a mix of dirt tracks, scrub paths and bare rock. Shade is limited, especially on the upper slopes, so sun protection is important, and the wind on the ridge can be strong and cold.

The route climbs from the village through scrub and holm oak toward the ridge. Waymarking is limited, so an offline map and some navigational care are necessary; a local guide from Belyounech can help. At the summit, the view takes in the Strait of Gibraltar, the coast of Spain on clear days, Ceuta and the Rif mountains. The summit is the natural turn-around point, and walkers return by the same route.

There are no refuge huts, and reliable water sources are scarce, so at least three litres of water should be carried. Bail-out options are to descend the way up toward the village. Cloud and haze can obscure views and the trail, so clear days are preferred.