The renowned blue city of Chefchaouen is absolutely stunning. At first glance, you might think the pictures are from Greece, but they’re not! The streets are filled with various shades of blue, making it one of the most picturesque destinations in the world. However, there’s much more to this city than just its Instagram-worthy streets! Here’s a complete guide to the best activities to do while you’re there:
- Explore the Blue Medina
- Visit the Kasbah Museum
- Hike to the Spanish Mosque
- Explore Akchour Waterfalls
- Watch the Sunrise/Sunset
- Visit Argania Chaouen – A Soap Shop
- Enjoy the Nightlife
1
Explore the Blue Medina
Wander through the narrow, blue-painted streets and soak in the vibrant architecture. The charm of Chefchaouen lies in its unique color palette, and the Medina is the heart of this beauty. I never got tired of strolling through the streets, as each corner reveals something new. Exploring all the streets and markets can take up to a full day if you take your time.
What to Expect: Traditional Moroccan crafts, souvenirs, and local food stalls are abundant in the Medina.
2
Visit the Kasbah Museum
If you’re looking for a cultural activity, the Kasbah Museum is a must. You’ll learn about the history of Chefchaouen, discover traditional Moroccan artifacts, and explore the well-preserved Kasbah with its towers and stunning views of the Medina and surrounding mountains. The museum’s gardens are a peaceful oasis, and climbing the Kasbah’s towers offers incredible views.
Entrance Fee: 60 DHS for tourists (8$ CAD).
Opening Hours: Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Tour Duration: Set aside about 1–2 hours to fully explore the museum and its grounds.
Tip: Guided tours are available, offering more in-depth information about the artifacts and history.
3
Hike to the Spanish Mosque
For panoramic views of Chefchaouen and the surrounding Rif Mountains, hike up to the Spanish Mosque. The hike is of easy to medium difficulty and takes about 20 to 30 minutes from the center of the Medina. The mosque itself is a beautiful structure, though not open to visitors, and it offers the perfect vantage point to watch the sun rise or set over the blue city.
Best Time to Hike: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and catch the best lighting for photos.
What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, water, and a camera for those stunning views.
4
Explore Akchour Waterfalls
Take a day trip to the nearby Akchour Waterfalls and enjoy hiking, swimming, and exploring natural pools in the middle of a lush landscape. It’s a refreshing escape from the city and perfect for nature lovers. The hike to the waterfalls takes about 2 hours each way, but the journey is well worth it.
How to Get There: The easiest way is to book a guided tour online or through your accommodation in Chefchaouen. Tours often include transportation.
What to Expect: Clear, natural pools for swimming and multiple waterfalls.
Tip: Bring a swimsuit, towel, snacks, and plenty of water for the hike.
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5
Watch the Sunrise or Sunset
Chefchaouen offers some of the most magical sunrise and sunset views. I personally loved watching the sunset from a viewpoint near Parking d’Al-Bab Sidi Bou Shouka (enter 5PCQ+PQX, Chefchaouen, Morocco in Google Maps). It is just outside the old city, which you can access by walking up from the Medina. Many people gather here to watch the sunset, making it a social and beautiful experience.
Best Time to Arrive: About 30 minutes before sunrise or sunset to get a good spot.
6
Visit Argania Chaouen – A Soap Shop
You have to visit Argania Chaouen, an incredible soap shop nestled in the Medina. My mother and I spent nearly an hour exploring all the different products and scents. The shop offers a variety of locally made soaps, oils, and beauty products using traditional Moroccan ingredients like argan oil. We called this shop our hidden gem because it was one of our favorite experiences in Chefchaouen.
What to Expect: High-quality natural products, friendly service, and unique souvenirs.
7
Enjoy the Nightlife
At night, Chefchaouen’s main square comes alive with music, dancing, and social gatherings. After dinner, take a stroll through the square to enjoy the lively atmosphere. Street performers, musicians, and vendors create an energetic vibe that contrasts with the serene daytime experience. Be sure to treat yourself to a traditional Moroccan dessert while you soak in the vibrant scene.
Best Spots: Check out local cafés around the square for live music or enjoy a casual night out with friends.
What to Eat: Try local desserts like Msemen (a Moroccan pancake) or Chebakia (a honey-soaked pastry) to satisfy your sweet tooth.
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