visit Chechaouen
Chefchaouen:
It is called the ‘blue pearl’ of Morocco for its beautiful blue houses and streets. After Jewish immigrants painted their houses blue, people have long wondered why; it is this mystery that gives the town its charm and makes it a popular destination in the long run. Spend a day or two in Chefchaouen and enjoy the best the town has to offer, or stay for three days or more and soak up the breathtaking natural beauty of the surrounding Rif Mountains.
1 : Wander the Blue Streete
The best reason to visit Chefchaoun is the beautiful streets lined with houses painted in various shades of blue. There are many theories as to why the walls are painted blue. Some say it’s for practical reasons, like keeping mosquitoes away or keeping the house cooler.
Others say the blue represents the colour of the sky, the Mediterranean Sea or the nearby Ras Maa waterfall. Even today, locals paint their houses blue to keep this tradition alive or to attract visitors to Chefchaouen with its picturesque streets.
Chefchaouen is much more quiet than other Moroccan towns, so you can spend hours wandering around the blue streets and photographing the beautiful terraces and porches in the sunshine. The blue houses of this town are undoubtedly the best thing to see in Chefchaouen.
note: Always be respectful, as the houses are inhabited by locals. Some ‘Insta-famous’ houses charge a small fee for taking photos.
2:Watch the Sunrise or Sunset in Chefchaouen
Sunrise and sunset in Chefchaouen are the most magical moments of the day in the city. Make sure to include it in your Chefchaouen itinerary. Wake up early in the morning and climb onto the roof of a riad for one of the most spectacular sunrises you’ll experience on your trip. You can also choose one of the many hikes in the Rif Mountains on the outskirts of the city to enjoy this magical moment from up high. We recommend this hike for stunning views of the city.
3:Visit the Spanish Mosque
The Spanish Mosque is a beautiful building on top of a hill in Sheffield; the mosque was not used during the war in the 1920s and now lies in ruins overlooking the city. It is a 30-minute walk to the top of the hill and the views are spectacular.
Watching the sun set, as the golden light reflects off the backdrop of the green hills, is magical, but at this time of year it can get crowded as this is one of the most popular sunrise locations in Chefchaouen. If you are looking for a quieter time, we recommend coming early in the morning to see the sunrise.
4:The Kasbah Museum:
The old Moroccan fortress Kasbah is located in the main square. The building has been used several times over the centuries, mainly as a prison, but now houses an ethnographic museum and an art gallery. Inside, there are also beautiful Spanish-style gardens, which provide a pleasant, quiet space away from the city. Learn about the fascinating history of the area through displays of ancient objects, costumes, musical instruments, traditional decorations and artefacts. Climb the fortress tower and enjoy the magnificent view of the city.
5:Enjoy the Nature Around Chefchaouen:
The Rift Mountains are the perfect place to see some great scenery and wildlife. We didn’t venture out of town ourselves, but we heard great reviews from other tourists.
- Ras El Maa Waterfall: This is a small but beautiful waterfall located in a beautiful forest outside the Medina. Sit here and sip mint tea, dip your feet in the cool stream water and watch the locals wash their clothes. It can be reached by taking a walk to the Spanish Mosque. Be sure to stop in Chefchaouen if you’re on your way and have time
- jeb Al Kalaa: This is a moderate hike that takes about six to eight hours. The route can be difficult to follow, so you’ll need to check your navigation or book a guide. When you reach the top, you will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of the mountains and the green city below. If you have a day to spare, there are some amazing things to do in Chefchaouen.
- Bridgs of God and Akchour Waterfalls: The Akchour area of Tarasemtan National Park is full of amazing emerald pools, waterfalls and gorges. Don’t miss the Akchour Falls and the Bridge of God, an impressive natural stone arch that rises 25 metres above the gorge. Both are accessible on foot via steep paths, so be prepared to walk.
- Thalassemtane National Park: less than 45 minutes’ drive from Chefchaouen, this stunning national park is full of natural wonders. Hire a guide to take you on unforgettable hikes.
6: Experience Delicious Food
Moroccan food tastes unlike anything else. In every corner of the charming alleyways you will find homemade bread baked by people in their wood-fired ovens. Restaurants offer typical Moroccan dishes including coarse grains, fish, spices and vegetables. Enjoy sitting on beautiful Moroccan cushions in the romantically lit restaurant and eating locally made dishes tagine – a true way to experience Moroccan culture and Chefchaouen culture.
Don’t forget to have a cup of fresh mint tea. It’s a Moroccan tradition, not only for socialising but also for your health.
7: Hotels and Riads Chefchaouen
There are many accommodation options at Chefchaouen. For the most authentic experience, stick to traditional dishes. Most riads and hotels range in price from affordable to ultra-luxurious. Many of the more luxurious riads even have spas a stay in the medina is a great way to get the most out of your stay. Staying inside the medina can be expensive, but don’t forget that there are some great hotels here too.
8:Getting to Chefchaouen & Getting around
Chefchaouen is not the easiest town to reach by mountain bike as it is very remote, but it is well worth a visit! It can be reached from Tangier (2.5 hours) and Tetouna (1.5 hours) by rental car, taxi or local bus. Chefchaouen is not accessible by plane or train, but Tangier and Tetouan both have airports.
The town of Chefchaouen is accessible on foot. Most of the natural sites can also be explored on foot along one of the many paths that start from the town.
We have listed only the most interesting ones. there are many things to do bleuy city.
