Marhaba2030Morocco 2030 visitor guide

Chefchaouen

شفشاون

The blue city of the Rif mountains.

Nearest host city Tangier
Best for Photos, slow walks, mountain air, a night away from the big cities.

Overview

Founded in 1471 at the foot of the Rif mountains, Chefchaouen is famous for its medina painted in every shade of blue. It is calm, small and easy to walk, with mountain views from every corner. Stay one night to enjoy it early in the morning and at sunset, when day-trippers have left.

How to get there

About 2.5–3 hours by road from Tangier, 3.5–4 hours from Fes. CTM buses and shared grand taxis; no train.

Highlights

Blue medina

Get lost in the blue lanes and stairways. The quietest and most photogenic moment is early morning.

Outa el Hammam square & Kasbah

The main square with cafés, and the old red-walled kasbah with a small museum, a garden and a tower view.

Ras El Ma

The spring at the edge of the medina where locals wash clothes in the cold mountain water.

Spanish Mosque viewpoint

A 20–30 minute walk up the hill for the best sunset over the blue town.

Akchour waterfalls & God's Bridge

About 45 minutes by car: river pools, waterfalls and a natural rock arch in Talassemtane National Park.

Local tips

  • Buy local goat's cheese and woven wool blankets.
  • Ask before photographing people and do not step into private doorways for photos.
  • You may be offered cannabis: it is illegal for recreational use, just say no.

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