Chefchaouen is the “blue city” in Northern Morocco. It’s a delightful small community tucked within the Rif Mountains and located close to the Mediterranean Sea. Chefchaouen is one of Morocco’s most picturesque towns. Home to around 40,000 residents, it is perhaps best known for its distinctive white-washed and blue accented homes. Many people enjoy simply wandering around the city to take in the charming scenery, but there is also plenty to see and experience, whether you are in search of adventure or a more low-key escape. We narrowed it down to the top seven things to do while on your tour in Chefchaouen, Morocco.
#1 – Find a Unique Shopping Experience
First on the list of things to do in Chefchaouen is shopping. In Chefchaouen, keep your eye out for wool products and textiles. Chefchaouen is a fantastic place to buy hand-woven blankets and wool garments that you won’t see as often in other cities in Morocco. The medina also has goods such as brass teapots and Moroccan slippers, as well as other items. Expect to find products made of camel hair, sheep wool, and even cactus fiber, dyed naturally from products found in the nearby mountains. You will also likely find handmade clay pots, with unique designs. The region’s native goat cheese is also a delicacy not to be missed, nor are the spices for sale. Remember while shopping that bargaining is normal in Morocco!
#2 – Observe an Area Mosque
Chefchaouen also features a number of mosques. The Grande Mosquee, built in the 15th century, is best known for its octagonal towers. There is also a mosque honoring the Jebalah region’s patron saint. If you are not Muslim, you are not allowed inside the mosques, but the beautiful buildings are breathtaking from the outside too. The ruins of an ancient Spanish mosque reside on a hill overlooking the city. The location also offers some unique and picturesque views of the region. It is a steep climb to the mosque, about two kilometers from the town of Chefchaouen.
#3 – Hike the Rif Mountains
If you would like to add a little more activity to your tour, consider adding on a hike to the Rif Mountains! The Rif Mountains, the northernmost mountain range in Africa, are just a day trek from Chefchaouen. Try visiting the Akchour waterfalls or arranging a hike with a local guide.
#4 – Taste the Cuisine
There is nothing quite like the taste of food in Morocco. On your tour of Chefchaouen, be sure to stop at a local bakery. You’ll be able to smell the fresh bread cooking in the wood-fired oven! You can also try Moroccan dishes of couscous, fish, spices and vegetables in Chefchaouen. Finish your incredible meal with a cup of freshly made mint tea. Drinking tea is a tradition in Morocco, not just for companionship but for health benefits, as well.
#5 – Try Your Hand at Photography
The main reason that Chefchaouen is famous is because of how photogenic it is! There are many ideas about how the town came to be painted blue. No matter the reason, Chefchaouen offers some of the most extraordinary backdrops for homes and businesses in all of Morocco. Even amateur photographers can get great shots in Chefchaouen! For some of the best views, climb to one of the many rooftop terraces. Tip: wake up early before the streets fill with tourists, especially for some of the more popular photo-op places.
#6 – Visit the Kasbah
Although small, Chefchaouen’s Kasbah features a museum and gardens that cannot be missed. The unique location is a walled fortress, which includes old photographs of the region, as well as traditional jewelry and baskets on display. Climb the tower stairs for some more of the region’s amazing views.
#7 – Visit the Square and Waterfall
To really immerse yourself in the culture of Chefchaouen, however, you need to experience life among the locals. Plaza Uta el-Hammam is the town’s square, full of relaxing cafes. The town’s waterfall is a sort of meeting place for local residents. It is the place where residents come to interact with friends and neighborhoods, as well as to do their laundry and simply cool off on a hot day.
Whether you are in search of some adventure, looking for a quiet stroll through ancient streets or you are looking for some one-of-a-kind items, you are sure to find it all in Chefchaouen, Morocco. This unique and enchanting city is a true mix of old tradition and style that only a Moroccan adventure can bring. Ask about adding Chefchaouen to your tour today!