Updated
Hiking Around Faqra: Five Walks From Easy to Hard
Five walks from Faqra: Chabrouh Dam (easy), RedRock paths, the natural bridge, the plateau to Bqaatouta, and the ridges. Grades, times, and what to pack.
What to Know
- Easiest: Chabrouh Dam loop (~2 km) or the paths inside RedRock.
- No shade on most routes, water, hat, cream, every time.
- Waymarking is minimal. Download an offline map before you leave.
- Spring and autumn are best; summer only early or late.
The plateau around Faqra is open limestone, big views, and almost no shade. These five walks start close to The Nest. Pick by fitness, not by Instagram.
1. Chabrouh Dam loop, easy, 2km, 1.5hrs
The best introduction. Park below the gate, walk the road or take the stone steps, then loop the reservoir. Wide, gentle, and suitable for children and older walkers.
No shade at all. May to September, go early or late.
2. Around RedRock, easy, 1–2km, 45mins
Paths through the village and out into the surrounding land. Ideal first thing with coffee, or with a dog.
3. The natural bridge descent, moderate, short, 1hr
Ten minutes down to the river beneath the arch, and back up. Short but rough, slippery and thorny, cover your legs and wear grip. The reward is standing under the arch with water running through in spring.
4. Faqra ruins to Baaktouta, moderate, ~8km, 3hrs
A proper walk across the plateau, starting at the ruins. Open ground, big views, and very few people. Navigation matters, there's little signage and the terrain looks similar in every direction. Download an offline map.
5. Up onto the ridges, hard, variable, 4hrs+
Routes climbing from the Chabrouh area onto the higher slopes. Real elevation, real exposure, and no facilities. For confident walkers only, and not alone in winter.
What to bring, every time
Water, more than you think. There is no shade and altitude dehydrates you faster.
Sun protection. Year-round. Snow reflection in winter is as strong as summer sun.
Layers. Wind at height turns a mild day cold.
Proper shoes. Limestone is uneven and slick when wet.
An offline map. Signal is patchy and waymarking is minimal.
Seasons
Spring, best. Water running, flowers, comfortable temperatures. Autumn, clearest light, ideal temperature. Summer, only early morning or evening. Winter, the Chabrouh loop and RedRock paths work. Higher routes need proper equipment.
Guided walks
Local guides run routes in this area, including around the Chabrouh trails. Worth it for the longer ridge routes if you don't know the ground.
Common questions
What's the best easy walk?
The Chabrouh Dam loop.
Is there shade on the trails?
Almost none. Plan around it.
Are the trails waymarked?
Minimally. Bring an offline map.
Can I walk in winter?
The lower routes, yes. Higher ridges need equipment.
Is it suitable for children?
Chabrouh and the RedRock paths, yes.
Staying in Faqra?
The Nest is a one-bedroom chalet at RedRock with mountain views, 24/7 electricity, free garage parking and a fire pit. Sleeps 3.
