chefchaouen Morocco Activities And Best Things To Do
The small Moroccan town of chefchaouen, often referred to simply as Chaouen, is one of the most picturesque places in Morocco. Set in the magnificent landscape of the Rif Mountains, it boasts one of the country’s most charming medinas and is famous for the variety of shades of blue paint covering the walls.
Under the blue skies of Morocco, there is a blue-blue city, Chefchaouen. When you see it for the first time in photos, you think: Photoshop! It seems like a fairy tale. But it really exists no fraud, not even sleight of hand. Moreover, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Morocco, just a hundred kilometers from both Tangier, connected to Europe by an hour-long ferry, and Ceuta, the Spanish enclave on the northern coast of Africa. You can come here for the weekend, which some Spaniards do.
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Known as the “blue pearl” or “blue city” of Morocco, the buildings in Chefchaouen medina are painted with a talcum or chalk paint that looks so inviting.
The city is located among the gentle green slopes of the Rif Mountains, where the hot breath of the Sahara is replaced by a refreshing salty breeze of the Mediterranean. The Moors and Jews, exiled from Spain, settled here at the end of the 15th century and since then, it’s a different story: Chefchaouen looks more like Southern Europe than Africa – even Spanish is more common than French.
From the outside, the city looks like an enormous bird’s nest stuck to the side of a mountain. From afar, its blue seems unnatural, like sickly skin color.
It is so beautiful! And very, very blue :).
Here are our tips and suggestions for fun things to do in Chefchaouen!
Why Is Chefchaouen Blue?
There are several beliefs as to why the city’s walls were painted blue. They include:
-To Follow Jewish Custom and Culture:
In the 1930s, a sizeable population of Jewish refugees arrived in Chefchaouen, fleeing Nazi persecution and the growing threat of war.In Jewish beliefs, the color blue represents the sky, peace, safety, and the power of heaven, which in turn reminds people of heaven and God. Therefore, there is a strong tradition in Jewish communities of dyeing things blue and using blue dye to dye fabrics, especially prayer rugs.
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Some people believe that early Jews in Chefchaouen introduced the practice of painting walls blue, in keeping with their religious and cultural practices. Many locals say, however, that the blue-colored walls of Chefchaouen medina were only found in the Jewish part of the city, the mellah, until fairly recently. Older residents say that most of Chefchaouen’s buildings within the medina used to be white during their younger years.
-To Keep Mosquitoes Away.
There are those who believe that shades of blue decorate city to help deter mosquitoes. While mosquitoes generally prefer to live near the waters, they don’t like being in the water itself. The colors of the Chaouen medina buildings can certainly look like running water. Perhaps residents noticed fewer mosquitoes in the Jewish part of town and decided to follow suit to rid their homes of the pesky bugs.
-To Keep Cool
Some Ancient inhabitants say that the blue color helps keep their homes cool in the warmer months. While this probably wasn’t the original intention, it serves as a valid reason as to why the painting continues in modern times.
-Represent the Colour of Water
chaouen walls is daubed in all shades of blue to represent the color of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, according to some locals. Others, on the other hand, believe that the blues symbolize the importance of the city’s Ras el-Maa Waterfall where citizens get their drinking water. The essential life-sustaining water allows a community to thrive in an otherwise hostile environment in the arid mountains.
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-To Attract Tourists
While it certainly would not have been the original reason for painting the Bleu city, attracting tourists is the main reason why the practice continues. The unusual color, after all, is the city’s main claim to fame. chefchaouen blue city f used to be an unremarkable spot on the trade route between Fez and Tangier. Now, however, it is quite a popular tourist destination.
Clearly, whatever the original reasons for painting the city, there are several advantages to continuing to pull out the brushes.
Exploring The Morocco Blue City
a practical guide to Chefchaouen, the Blue Pearl of Morocco.
there are enough fun things to do in Chefchaouen that you shouldn’t miss out on your trip! I’ve created this complete Chefchaouen guide to help you plan out every detail of your time spent in this amazing pearl town, among other things the best things to do, the best places to stay, and where you can find a chefchaouen local market for a glass of wine or beer in an otherwise alcohol-free place.
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The time you want to spend in Chefchaouen depends on what you want to do and see. we suggest 4 days as we also went on a couple of hikes around the chaoen city. If you have a limited time in Morocco, just one day should be more enough to discover the ‘Morocco Blue Pearl’ as the old medina (Moroccan word for ‘city’) of Chefchaouen isn’t big as much.
thankfulness to social media platforms like Instagram Pinterest, chaouen has become a more and more popular destination due to its extremely photogenic nature. Once you travel to Chefchaouen, you will quickly see that it really is a photographer’s paradise.
Best Things to do in Chefchaouen-chefchaouen morocco things to do
enjoy the best chefchaouen things to do in this article
Get Lost in the Chefchaouen Medina
If you like to take some photos without any problem or having tons of people on them, you should hit the streets morning before 9 am.
VISIT THE SOUK (Chefchaouen Morocco Market)-Shop for Souvenirs
One of the great popular things to do in Chefchaouen is taking some time to browse the many colorful little shops(
If you appear to be in Chefchaouen on a Monday or a Thursday, you should visit the market “souk”, the Moroccan word for traditional market.). Shopping for souvenirs in Chefchaouen isn’t as cheap as you may expect but it’s a much more enjoyable experience than places like Marrakech, as you don’t get nearly as much hassle from the shop vendors.
chaouen is known for its beautiful traditional hand-made goods such as colorful rugs, local crafts, arts, clothes, and traditional souvenirs, jewelry, Moroccan lamps, caftans, woven baskets, and so much more. If you’re going to buy any souvenirs or gifts for friends in Morocco, you really can’t go wrong with getting them in chaouen market!
Tips for shopping in Chefchaouen:
- Always shop with cash(mad)Moroccan dirham, most stores don’t accept credit card payments.
- Haggling is part of the shopping experience in Morocco. . Offer them about half of their asking price and then you
- will go back and forth until you settle on an agreed price.
- If you’re looking for something in particular, check out a few different shops before settling.
Kasbah Museum Chefchaouen-Best Chefchaouen Kasbah
This ethnographic museum is located in the center of the old medina, right near Plaza Uta el-Hammam, and is surrounded by a beautiful lush garden.15th century Kasbah, it’s right next to the Grand Mosque. Inside the Kasbah is a lovely courtyard with a beautiful garden as well as the Kasbah museum, which invites visitors to explore its unbelievable collection of artifacts that tell the story of the chaouen region.
Tickets: 60 dirham/$6 USD
Opening Times: 9am – 6:30pm daily
Enjoy the Panoramic Views from the Spanish Mosque
The Spanish Mosque was built in the 1920s but is no longer in use today. Watching the sunset from the mosque is the perfect way to finish off a long day of sightseeing.
The best place to enjoy the beautiful panorama of Chefchaouen is the Spanish Mosque. The mosque is located on a hill in the east of the city, a 45-minute walk away.
One of the most important things in Chefchaouen is to undoubtedly walk to the Spanish Mosque, which sits on top of a hill overlooking the town below. In the evening, when the perfect sunset glow illuminates the town, this is a particularly good thing!
GET A GOOD TRADITIONAL MASSAGE AT A LOCAL HAMMAM
use google maps to find the best one.
we can suggest Lina Riad and Spa:
one of the best things must do in Morocco is live in one riad-and another-traditional Morocco Bathhouse. go to Lina Riad and hot spring together. Located in the heart of the Medina, this riad has spacious and bright rooms overlooking the surrounding mountains and the bustling the Medina. The on-site spa is an oasis of tranquility, with an indoor heated swimming pool and a traditional Turkish bath with massage services. Ideal base for traveling in Chefchaouen.
things to do in chefchaouen at night-Place Outa El Hammam Chefchaouen
Attractions Around CHEFCHAOUEN: Best hiking and day trips around Chaouen Medina
When you are in Chefchaouen, you have one or two days of free time. Not only should you admire the surrounding mountains from the streets, you can also hike or take a day trip to enjoy the beauty of the Rif Mountains. The best time to visite the Rif Mountains is from April to October, but if you can hade some cold or even snowy weather, you can hike all year long if you are well prepared.
Hiking in the Rif Mountains:Cascades d’Akchour And God’s Bridge
Except for the blue streets, the surrounding towns are full of natural scenery. It takes about 30 minutes by taxi from the city center to reach an attractive tourist trail. After a beautiful walk, visitors will enter an amazing waterfall. The azure waters are in keeping with the blue theme of the town. Visitors can take a dip in the rock pool or admire the majestic waterfall. When in the area, be sure to pay attention to the awesome Bridge of God, which is a rock arch across the river.
Enjoy Best of chefchaouen waterfall: The Akchour Waterfalls and Gods Bridge are two very special places near Akchour, a small town located at a 45-minute drive from Chefchaouen cntre.
Things to bring on your hike to Akchour Falls:
- Bring some cash with you, not only for the return trip back to city but so that you can buy food(
breakfast or lunch depend on time)
and drinks at the little stalls along the hike
- Swimming suit and towel so that you can swim in the pools along the hike
- Toilet paper
- Comfortable walking shoes.
Hiking to Akchour Falls makes an excellent day trip from Chefchaouen for those who have limited time but still want to get some exercise in while surrounded by beautiful nature.
Great Mosque
The Great Mosque of Chefchaouen is very popular with travelers, which naturally makes the mosque an important part of Moroccan culture, which is not surprising. The call of prayer, which is called five times a day, produces beautiful echoes, creating a great atmosphere, and this charming building, which was built in the 15th century, is gorgeous. The mosque is one of the most important buildings in the town and is definitely a must-see attraction, although remember that only Muslims can enter.
Rooftop Restaurant Chefchaouen
after breakfast, You can enjoy traditional Moroccan tagine in the rooftop restaurant. Many top restaurants have beautiful views from their roof terraces. We tried some of these foods, the following are the ones we can recommend, they are based on delicious food, reasonable prices and of course epic scenery!
- Aladdin Restaurant
After a full day of hiking or sightseeing, a delicious meal is a must more importantly, travelers can try some traditional Moroccan cuisine. Aladdin Restaurant is a good choice Listed as one of the top dining places in Chefchaouen, Aladdin is located in the center near the Kasbah on the Grand Place. The view overlooking Chefchaouen from its rooftop dining terrace is amazing because it is one of the tallest buildings in the area!. Guests can choose from a menu of international cuisine including Spanish omelets, but more importantly, from aperitifs to various tagines and couscous, A variety of Moroccan cuisine, and the prices are very affordable. The restaurant is commensurate with its name, has a romantic and charming feel, and truly complements the delicious cuisine.
Ras el-Ma
Translated as the source of water, this is where the fresh mountain water trickled into the town and proved the gathering place for locals. These refreshing waterfalls can replace the remote and magnificent waterfalls of the mountains, not only to avoid the high temperature but also to better understand standard daily life. The locals gather here to wash clothes, just for a friendly cool moment.
Best Chefchaouen Day Trips
If you don’t have enough time to spend a few days in Chefchaouen during your Morocco itinerary, then you may want to consider a day trip from Fes, Tangier or Rabat. There are many day trips to choose from, and the prices are all reasonable. Check out some of the most popular tours below.
- Fes to Chefchaouen Day Trip – Includes pick up from accommodation in Fes, transportation, a fully guided tour, 4 hours of time spent in Chefchaouen. Find tickets and availability her.
- Tangier to Chefchaouen Day Trip – Includes pick up from accommodation in Tangier, a fully guided tour, 4-5 hours to spend exploring Chefchaouen. Find tickets and availability in chefchaouen TripAdvisor.
- Rabat to Chefchaouen Day Trip – Rabat is a bit further away from the other cities mentioned, I would recommend spending a few days in Chefchaouen if you’re travelling from Rabat. If you only have enough time for a day trip, this private tour is a great option.Find tickets and availability in chefchaouen TripAdvisor
- Casablanca to chefchaouen day trip: Days Tour From Casablanca To Chefchaouen. private excursions to Casablanca to explore the Rif mountains. excursions are available every day with pick up at the hotel. Discovery of the Rif Mountains Breathtaking views of Chefhcaoeun 4×4 guided tour Family trip day Minibus available
WHERE TO STAY IN CHEFCHAOUEN
CAMPING IN CHEFCHAOUEN CITY
If you are traveling by car or want to reduce costs, you can always live in Camping Azilian, a camping site located on the top of the hill overlooking Chefchaouen. It takes about 5 minutes to walk to the old medina. The campsite has toilets, cold showers, Wi-Fi and electricity, as well as a small shop and restaurant. There is also a hotel outside the camp: Click here for more info and prices.
LOW-BUDGET HOSTELS
Although Chefchaouen is a very popular destination, it is not expensive to spend the night in the old medina. There are many low-budget chefchaouen morocco hotels with dorm beds starting at $6 per person. If you plan to visit Chefchaouen in the summer, it is best to book in advance. It’s also good to check hotel reviews because many of them have bug problems…
Another hostel we also recommend is the Dar Bleu Pearl.
MID-RANGE HOTELS
If you want a little bit of luxury, you can always book a room in one of the many mid-range chefchaouen hotels in old medina.
Prices vary from $20 to $40(200-400Dirham) per room per night. We recommend Dar Elrio, Hotel Sandra and Usha Guesthouse. Book early as they fill up quickly!
LUXURIOUS HOTELS IN CHEFCHAOUEN
If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in Chefchaouen Medina, you should book a night at Casa La Palma or La Petite Chefchaouen. are very beautiful luxury chefchaouen hotels but still affordable.
If you really want to indulge yourself, why not stay at the Lina Ryad & Spa!
search for chefchaouen morocco hotels in booking for more or contact us for help.
HOW TO GET TO AND FROM CHEFCHAOUEN
Chefchaouen is usually from Fes or Tangier or rabat or casablanca. because they are the closest cities. Since Chefchaouen is located in a mountainous area, there is no train line there and it can only be reached by road. Apart from renting a car and driving to Chefchaouen by yourself, there are two ways. The first is with Public Transport is to take a bus, which is very simple and generally comfortable. Another option is to book a private transfer service, which will cost more, but if you travel in a group, it may be worth it.
HOW TO GET TO AND FROM CHEFCHAOUEN BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT
did you ask how to get to chefchaouen from or to any of imperial morocco cities””;;/,,
The only way to travel to and from chaouen by public transport is by bus or grand taxi. The latter can become very expensive, and I can honestly say that traveling by bus in Morocco is actually very comfortable, depending on the bus service you use.
I highly recommend you take a CTM bus. CTM is the most reliable bus company in Morocco.
Nejme Chamal is one of the best bus companies. Their buses are also quite comfortable but you can only buy your ticket at the bus station.
note:you cannot edit the ticket if the order confirmed
1. FROM TANGIER TO CHEFCHAOUEN BY BUS
There are two bus stops in Tangier, and you can take a bus to Chefchaouen. One of them is the main city bus station “Gare Routiere” at Place al Jamia al Arabia (see the map below). Here, you can take the Nejme Chamal bus. Several buses depart from Tangier to Chefchaouen every day. The ticket price is 45 dirham and you must pay an additional 10 dirham for your luggage. The bus trip takes about 3 hours, but if you don’t have enough tickets, you may have to get off at some point and then take a taxi (no extra cost). People on the bus go directly to Chefchaouen.
The second bus station “CTM Gare Voyageurs” is not very convenient, but these buses go directly to Chefchaouen, and you can get extra comfort at the same price as the Nejma Chamal bus. There are several CTM buses from Tangier to Chefchaouen every day, and it takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes by bus. It costs 45 dirham per person and 5-10 dirham for luggage. You can book tickets online in advance.
note:you cannot edit the ticket if the order confirmed
2. CASABLANCA TO CHEFCHAOUEN BY BUS
There is a CTM bus from Casablanca to Chefchaouen at 13:30 every day. The bus ride takes about 6.5 hours (with restrooms and food breaks in between), and a ticket costs 160 dirham (plus 10 dirham for the suitcase).
You can catch this bus at the CTM bus station in Casablanca on Rue Léon (see map). As there’s only one bus a day, it’s better to reserve your ticket in advance at the bus station or book it online.
note:you cannot edit the ticket if the order confirmed
3. FES TO CHEFCHAOUEN BY BUS
There are about 4 CTM buses from Fez to Chefchaouen every day. The bus ride takes about 4 hours (restrooms and food are needed in the middle), and a ticket costs 75 dirham (your suitcase + 10 dirham). You can take this bus at the main CTM bus station in the new city of Fes. This bus station is about 6 kilometers away from the fes old medina, so you have to take a taxi to get there (any price between 10 and 20 dirham)
note:you cannot edit the ticket if the order confirmed
You can buy your ticket at the bus station or book it online.
4. MARRAKESH TO CHEFCHAOUEN ,(AND OTHER DESTINATIONS)
If you want to leave from another city like marrakech to Chefchaouen, check the departure times with prices on the CTM. There’s no direct bus going from Marrakesh to Chefchaouen as there’s a huge distance between both cities.you should take a bus in tangier station bus or train.
LEAVING FROM CHEFCHAOUEN BY BUS
There is only one bus station in city of Chefchaouen, which can go directly to other destinations (please see the map below). It is about 30 minutes’ walk from the old medina. You can walk there or take a taxi for 15 dirham.
CTM buses as Nejme Chamal buses leaving at different times during the day. If you want to travel with CTM, you should buy your ticket in advance, whether at the bus station or online. you cannot edit the ticket if the order confirmed.
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Chefchaouen to Tangier
From Chefchaouen to Tangier, several buses depart every day. The baggage fee for a ticket is approximately Dh45 + Dh5-10, and the journey takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.
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Chefchaouen to Casablanca
There is a bus from Chefchaouen to Casablanca every day in the morning at 7 o’clock. The baggage fee for a ticket is about 165 dirham + 5 to 10 dirham, and the journey takes about 5 hours. Since there is only one bus per day, you should book tickets at the bus station or online in advance.
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Chefchaouen to Fes
There are several buses every day from Chefchaouen to Fes city . The cost of a ticket is about Dh75 + luggage plus an additional Dh5-10, and the travel time is about 6 hours
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chefchaouen to Marrakech
Use the train would be much easier, faster, you can use the bus to Tangier then take the train from there to Marrakech.
Train info here (scroll down for the night train schedule)
Leaves Tangier 21:05 – arrive Marrakech 08:05
if you ask for chefchaouen airport? there’s no airport in chefchaouen. but you can use tangier airport or Tetouan airport is the nearby to chefchaouen medina
