The Friouato caves or cave are located about 30 km south of the city of Taza, Morocco. The farthest explored known point is about 272 meters, but its real limits are still mysterious. However, experts believe that its ends stretch to about 3.5 kilometers. There are also signs of an underground river that is believed to flow near the Grottes of Chiker. People of the nearby village say that there have been many explorers visiting the cave, some of whom never came back.
A cave diving expedition by Exeter University Speleological Society passed two static sumps in 1969 to discover more large chambers and shafts. The system ends in a massive choke of boulders. This may well be the same massive choke of boulders that can be seen at the end of the upststream passages of the nearby Grotte du Chiker; this choke was also discovered in 1969 by the same group of cavers. These were taken in 1976 during an expedition by the Cerberus Speleological Society from the UK.

Near the town of Taza lies one of the most breathtaking natural attractions in Morocco. The Friouato Caves, or Gouffre de Friouato, make up the largest known cave system in Northern Africa and the site has become increasing popular with visitors and tourists. Gouffre de Friouato was first explored by Norbet Casteret in the year 1930 and, thanks to his efforts, the caves can now be enjoyed by many.
The road leading to the Friouato Caves is quite steep, but is fortunately tarred for most of the way. All guests and visitors to the caves will be lead on this amazing journey by a guide who will take them safely through the cave system. To enter the caves, visitors need to descend down a hundred-meter shaft to reach several large chambers. It is also recommended that visitors take their own flashlights with them as the caves are extremely dark inside. A warm jacket should also be worn since many find the caves to be a little cold. Comfortable and sturdy walking shoes are advisable since a little climbing and navigation through rocky and slippery areas form part of the cave exploration journey.
The Friouato Caves stretch for kilometers underground, with the deepest cavern being 150 feet deep. Some parts along the way tend to be quite narrow but the few struggles along the way are definitely worth the effort. The caves are decorated in beautiful stalagmites and rock features. Their true beauty can be seen when shining a flashlight on them and seeing them sparkle in the light. Water and many slimy rocks and stones are also found in the cave. And, as with any cave system, the Friouato Caves are home to a large family of bats.
Professional cave explorers have ventured as far as 272 meters deep into the caves and it is believed that there is an underground river that flows near the Grottes du Chiker. This cave system stretches for 3.8 kilometers and is it is not advisable that inexperienced cavers attempt to explore it.
A cave diving expedition by Exeter University Speleological Society passed two static sumps in 1969 to discover more large chambers and shafts. The system ends in a massive choke of boulders. This may well be the same massive choke of boulders that can be seen at the end of the upststream passages of the nearby Grotte du Chiker; this choke was also discovered in 1969 by the same group of cavers. These were taken in 1976 during an expedition by the Cerberus Speleological Society from the UK.

Near the town of Taza lies one of the most breathtaking natural attractions in Morocco. The Friouato Caves, or Gouffre de Friouato, make up the largest known cave system in Northern Africa and the site has become increasing popular with visitors and tourists. Gouffre de Friouato was first explored by Norbet Casteret in the year 1930 and, thanks to his efforts, the caves can now be enjoyed by many.
The road leading to the Friouato Caves is quite steep, but is fortunately tarred for most of the way. All guests and visitors to the caves will be lead on this amazing journey by a guide who will take them safely through the cave system. To enter the caves, visitors need to descend down a hundred-meter shaft to reach several large chambers. It is also recommended that visitors take their own flashlights with them as the caves are extremely dark inside. A warm jacket should also be worn since many find the caves to be a little cold. Comfortable and sturdy walking shoes are advisable since a little climbing and navigation through rocky and slippery areas form part of the cave exploration journey.
The Friouato Caves stretch for kilometers underground, with the deepest cavern being 150 feet deep. Some parts along the way tend to be quite narrow but the few struggles along the way are definitely worth the effort. The caves are decorated in beautiful stalagmites and rock features. Their true beauty can be seen when shining a flashlight on them and seeing them sparkle in the light. Water and many slimy rocks and stones are also found in the cave. And, as with any cave system, the Friouato Caves are home to a large family of bats.
Professional cave explorers have ventured as far as 272 meters deep into the caves and it is believed that there is an underground river that flows near the Grottes du Chiker. This cave system stretches for 3.8 kilometers and is it is not advisable that inexperienced cavers attempt to explore it.
Comment