10 reasons why you should visit Chefchaouen

When planning a trip to Morocco, Chefchaouen is not usually the first city that comes to mind. As the train does not reach this part of Morocco, transportation can be complicated. Despite this, you shouldn’t miss this amazing city during your trip to Morocco.
Here are 10 reasons why you should visit Chefchaouen or Chaouen as the locals call it.

The endless blue walls

Also known as the Blue City, Chefchaouen is known for its walls covered in different shades of blue. There are a few theories as to why the city’s walls were painted blue. Some believe that it protects against mosquitoes, while others say that the Jewish community, after escaping from Europe, painted the walls in a colour that symbolises the sky.

Everything within walking distance

Unlike the more popular cities like Casablanca or Marrakech, Chefchaouen is a small town. You can walk to cafes, restaurants and even to the small Ras El Maa waterfall. This will give you plenty of photo opportunities without even needing to take a car or taxi.

Chefchaouen has a rich history

The city was founded in 1471 and has been under the control of several different political powers. As a result, many languages are spoken on the streets, including French, Spanish and Arabic. You can visit Chefchaouen’s ethnographic museum to learn more about the city’s fascinating history.

Read our article on the story behind the blue of Chefchaouen.

Markets are quieter than in the big cities

Marrakech and Fez are known for having very busy medinas, and tourists can expect to interact with many pushy traders. This can be overwhelming for many, but fortunately things are not as crazy in the small medina of Chefchaouen, where you can feel at ease walking around the many shops.

The shopping is incredible

If you’re there on a Monday or Thursday, you’ll have the opportunity to discover a local market with people from the Rif mountains. Otherwise, there are still plenty of shopping opportunities within the medina. You can find a host of traditional products, such as handmade hats and blankets.

Your budget will not be exceeded

Although it is a world-famous tourist city, Chefchaouen is not an expensive city, so it is the ideal place to visit if you are on a tight budget. You can find transport, food and accommodation at reasonable prices. While shopping, you can haggle for lower prices on some of the city’s best products.

Akchour waterfalls are 40 minutes away

Just 40 minutes away and costing around Dhs300 (30 Euro) for a round trip, you’ll find the Akchour waterfalls. The hike to the big waterfall takes about two hours and if you’re up for it, you can continue the hike to God’s Bridge. You should definitely take your swimming costume and pack a picnic during the long hike, or enjoy the local food you find along the way.

Chefchaouen is a safe city

As the town is much smaller than many other tourist destinations in Morocco, you will feel safer. As a general rule, you should always take precautions when travelling and be wary of strangers, but compared to the big city of Casablanca, for example, there is less risk in the streets of Chefchaouen.

Endless mountain views

While hiking to the Akchour waterfalls is a must, you can also enjoy the mountain views without leaving the city’s borders. Go to the roof of a café, or walk to Ras El Ma, to enjoy a beautiful sunset.

The food is incredible

Chefchaouen is the goat cheese region of Morocco. You’ll find it in every café, or you can buy it at the local market. There are also many pastry shops where you can enjoy a traditional Moroccan dessert. You can also enjoy a glass of mint tea with your meal.