Looking for amazing things to do in Chefchaouen? I have got the guide for you!
Chefchaouen earned its nickname as the “Blue Pearl of Morocco”. Tranquil, blue cobblestone roads surrounded by mountains, intertwined with flowing waterfalls. Magical is an understatement.
I visited Chefchaouen as part of a longer Morocco itinerary in 2022 and think of this adventure often.
Some of the best things to do include exploring the blue, cobblestone streets, catching city views from up above, and exploring the area’s surrounding nature.
Things to do in Chefchaouen
From vibrant, blue streets, charming stops, and nooks and crannies around every corner, you can easily fill an entire day in Chefchaouen by exploring at your own pace.
You can find the top things to do in Chefchaouen that you wouldn’t want to miss here.
1. Explore Blue Streets
There are so many amazing blue streets to explore in Chefchaouen!
2. Plaza Uta El-Hammam
Plaza Uta El-Hammam is the central square of Chefchaouen and easily accessible on foot from any part of the town.
This bustling hub is located in the heart of Chefchaouen’s medina, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the city.
The square is surrounded by cafes and restaurants where visitors can enjoy traditional Moroccan dishes while admiring the view of the grand Kasbah and the Great Mosque.
3. Go Shopping
Shopping in Chefchaouen offers a unique experience with its myriad of vibrant markets and shops.
The city is famous for its beautiful, handcrafted goods, including woven rugs, leather items, and traditional clothing.
The local markets are also a fantastic place to find Moroccan spices, argan oil, and handmade jewelry.
Wandering through the blue streets, you can encounter artisans at work, offering insights into the craftsmanship that goes into each piece.
The relaxed atmosphere and friendly shopkeepers make shopping here truly enjoyable.
4. Medina
The Medina in Chefchaouen is a maze of narrow, winding streets, bathed in various shades of blue, offering a serene and photogenic escape.
Within its walls, visitors can experience the heart of Moroccan culture, filled with historic buildings, bustling squares, and hidden gems.
Here are some of the best Chefcahouen Tours:
5. Walk to the top of Chefchaouen
The only thing better than exploring the blue alleyways of Chefchaouen is seeing the city from up above!
To reach the top of Chefchaouen, a rewarding trek up a meandering path awaits you.
This path, accessible from the Medina, allows for both leisurely strolls and more vigorous hikes, depending on your pace.
Once at the summit, breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surrounding mountains unfold!
Here are a few things you can do:
- Capture the picturesque landscape and the city’s distinctive blue hues with your camera!
- Enjoy a quiet moment of reflection, taking in the serene beauty of the area.
- Visit the Spanish Mosque, which offers a historical context and even more stunning views, especially at sunset.
6. Rooftop Views
Experiencing Chefchaouen’s iconic blue city from above is an amazing way to enjoy its panoramic views.
Some of the best rooftop views:
- La lampe Magique
- Cafe Clock
- Restaurant Tissemlal
7. Kasbah Museum
The Kasbah Museum is nestled in the heart of Chefchaouen’s Medina.
Travelers can easily locate it amidst the winding blue alleys, a short walk from the central square, Plaza Uta el-Hammam.
This historic fortress now houses an eclectic collection of Moroccan art, pottery, and artifacts that tell the rich story of the region and its people.
Visitors should plan at least an hour or two to fully immerse themselves in the museum’s offerings, exploring its beautiful Andalusian garden and enjoying the tranquil ambiance.
Read Next: 36 Hours in Fes, 2 Days in Marrakech
Chefchaouen Nature
8. Ras El Ma Waterfalls
The Ras El Ma Waterfalls, located just outside Chefchaouen’s city walls, are a natural spectacle that visitors shouldn’t miss.
To reach the waterfalls, head east from Chefchaouen’s Medina through the Bab El Ain gate.
The area around Ras El Ma provides an ideal spot for photography, relaxation, and immersing oneself in the natural beauty of Chefchaouen.
9. Hike the Rif Mountains
Hiking the Rif Mountains offers an adventurous escape into the natural landscapes surrounding Chefchaouen.
These mountains can be accessed by various trails starting from the city, with the most popular routes beginning near the Ras El Ma Waterfalls or directly from the edge of the Medina.
The terrain varies in difficulty, catering to both novice hikers and experienced trekkers seeking challenging climbs.
Guided tours are available for those unfamiliar with the routes or looking to learn more about the area’s flora and fauna.
The proximity of the Rif Mountains to Chefchaouen makes them an excellent day-trip destination for visitors.
10. Talassemtane National Park
Tallesmtane National Park, renowned for its vast expanses of cedar and fir forests, is situated approximately 10 kilometers east of Chefchaouen.
Visitors can access the park by car or local taxi, with the drive offering breathtaking views of the Rif Mountains.
The park serves as a haven for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers, boasting well-marked trails that cater to various levels of fitness.
Guided tours are available.
11. Cascades d’Akchour
The Cascades d’Akchour are situated within the Talassemtane National Park, roughly a 30-minute drive from Chefchaouen.
Visitors can reach this natural wonder by taking a local taxi or driving; parking is available near the entrance.
From there, a well-marked trail leads you through a scenic hike to the waterfalls.
The trek is accessible to hikers of all levels, offering both short and long routes, with the longer paths winding through the lush landscapes of the Rif Mountains.
12. Take a Photo Shoot
Having a photo shoot is one of the most traditional Millennial things to do in a town this vibrant!
Where to Stay in Chefchaouen
Casa La Palma is a wonderful hotel in Chefchaouen. The owner was incredibly kind with the highest hospitality. He woke up early to cook our breakfast to accommodate our schedule, and helped to organize activities at a moment’s notice.
The rooms are very clean and have lovely views!
Book at Booking.comSustainable Tourism Note
Before exploring all of the things to do in Chefchaouen, please know that locals live in the beautiful blue buildings.
The photos of immaculate doors along blue walls are the doors to the homes of hundreds of residents.
Be respectful. Do not gawk or take photos of people. Some residents require a small fee to take a photo outside of their property.
Chefchaouen Details
🗺️Location: Northwest Morocco. 5-hour car or 7-hour train from Casablanca, or 7-hour drive from Marrakesh.
📅Best Season: The weather in Chefchaouen is mild year-round. The low season is considered late fall to early spring.
❄️Winter months (December – February) see a high of 60 degrees F and low of 38 degrees F.
🪻Spring (March – May) sees a high of 73 degrees F and low of 42 degrees F.
☀️Summer (June – August) sees a high of 90 degrees and low of 56 degrees.
🍁Fall (September – November) sees a high of 82 degrees and low of 44 degrees. However, the temperature drops dramatically between September and November.
❓How many days: Plan for two days in Chefchaouen. Some travel from Fes to Chefchaouen as just a half-day trip, but you can’t truly enjoy all of the magic this little town has to offer if you are racing through.
🚗Parking: Parking is narrow as Chefchaouen is comprised of incredible, narrow alleyways and buildings built through mountains and hills. Check with your accommodation in advance about where you can park.
Conclusion
For first-time visitors to Chefchaouen, immerse yourself in swirling blue buildings and the natural landscapes surrounding this city.
Exploring the Rif Mountains, Tallesmtane National Park, and the Cascades d’Akchour provides a unique opportunity to experience Morocco’s stunning outdoors, with options available for all fitness levels.
If you’re short on time, experiencing the narrow blue walls of this incredible city will provide a full day of exploring.
