article · Acta Carsologica
Kef El Ghar cave in northeastern Morocco represents a notable karst geosite distinguished by rich natural and cultural features. Field investigations demonstrate well-developed karst landforms, visible stratigraphic exposures, active water systems, and diverse speleothems. Alongside these physical traits, the cave contains evidence of historical human occupation, archaeological remains, and distinctive aesthetic qualities. However, the site is under mounting pressure from unmanaged visitor access, an absence of official protection, and human-induced environmental degradation. Proposed conservation and site management frameworks aim to protect the cave environment while enabling its inclusion in regional geotourism and educational outreach. Preserving the location supports broader regional geoheritage initiatives, including the potential establishment of a designated regional geopark in the Taza area.
Caves preserve unique records of natural history and past human activity, yet their underground environments remain highly susceptible to irreversible damage. Assessing sites like Kef El Ghar highlights the need to balance public access with protective regulations. Developing structured conservation strategies ensures that irreplaceable geological features, archaeological traces, and active hydrological networks can be preserved for educational initiatives and sustainable tourism.
This research provides applied baseline assessments for local government authorities, environmental agencies, and tourism operators developing managed geotourism and educational programmes. The primary application lies in heritage management planning and the proposed creation of a regional geopark. The work appears to be at an early planning stage, offering recommendations for site preservation and public access rather than a commercial product ready for deployment.
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Kef El Ghar cave, located in the Taza region of northeastern Morocco, is a remarkable karst feature of significant natural and cultural value. This study aims to characterize the cave’s geodiversity and assess its significance as a karst geosite. Field investigations and descriptive analyses reveal well-developed karst morphologies, stratigraphic exposures, active hydrological systems, and diverse speleothems, highlighting the cave’s natural significance. In addition, evidence of historical human use, archaeological traces, and aesthetic features emphasize its cultural importance. Despite these attributes, the site faces increasing threats from uncontrolled access, lack of formal protection, and anthropogenic degradation. Based on these findings, this study proposes conservation and management strategies to preserve the cave’s integrity and promote its integration into regional geotourism and public education initiatives. Kef El Ghar cave thus represents a valuable component of the karst heritage of the Taza region and supports initiatives aimed at the establishment of a regional geopark.
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DOI: 10.3986/ac.v55i1.14888
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