In northwest Morocco, situated in the Rif Mountains, Visit Chefchaouen – The Blue City Morocco – is what we like to call it. “Chaouen,” as locals call it, is known worldwide for its quiet blue streets. It’s famed for being the most beautiful city in Morocco and draws in travelers from around the world to catch a glimpse.
Chefchaouen is the best destination to visit in Morocco. Aside from the blue streets, Chefchaouen is a popular tourist destination well known for its hiking, culture, food, and hashish that is grown prolifically throughout the region. Most people come to Morocco’s blue city to escape the hustle and bustle of the bigger cities in Morocco. where there is a blue oasis of calm tucked away in the mountains of Morroco.
Why is Chefchaouen blue? :
Often referred to as “the blue pearl,” we asked many locals and did a bunch of research as to why Chefchaouen is blue. Naturally, there are a few answers to this question, but nothing definitive.
History tells us that thousands of Jews fled Europe during the Spanish Inquisition. So, they were not forced into Christianity. They ended up settling in Chefchaouen and painted all the walls blue, the color of divinity in Judaism. This seems to be the prevailing answer to the original meaning behind the Moroccan Blue City.
In present days Morocco, the majority of the Jews are long gone. However, locals say that the blue color repels mosquitos; I guess they mistake the blue for clear blue water and stay away. Then there is the idea that the various blue shades help cool the city off during the summer. It’s probably somewhere in the middle as the tradition stuck, and the tourism dollars from photo-crazed Instagrammers certainly incentivized things
How to get to chefchaouen?
There are a few different options depending on where you come from in Morocco to get to the blue city, Morocco. Therefore, there are frequent buses from Fez and Tetouan and also from Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, and Ceuta in Spain. Moreover, we organize a 2 days tour from Tangier to discover the blue pearl.
Chefchaouen, Morocco, is about three hours from Tangier, the closest to the famous blue town. There are two local buses daily from Tangier. Skip those, and stick with the private bus company CTM for a more pleasurable ride.
Visit Chefchaouen on Google Maps here. The map will help with the idea of the location. Located in the Northeast of Morocco, it’s quite close to the coast, which keeps a temperate and cool climate compared to the deserts of Morocco.
how far is chefchaouen from Marrakech?
The distance between Marrakech and Chefchaouen is approximately 385 kilometers (239 miles) by road. Then, the travel time can vary depending on the route taken and the mode of transportation chosen.
If you decide to travel by car or taxi, the journey usually takes around 6-7 hours, considering normal traffic conditions and any rest stops along the way.
Alternatively, you can take a direct bus from Marrakech to Chefchaouen. However, the bus ride usually takes around 7-8 hours, as the route includes multiple stops. Also, the bus may take a slightly different path compared to private vehicles.
In general, we have customized Morocco desert tours, from Marrakech, Fes, Tangier, and Casablanca. Not to mention, that our tours will take you through Chefchaouen for a day trip.
what to do in chefchaouen?
Chefchaouen is famous for its striking blue-washed buildings and picturesque streets. For this reason, offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some things to do in Chefchaouen:
- Hike in The Blue City: Just look up when you get tired of wandering around the Moroccan blue city! A popular hike that goes just behind the waterfall of the Ras el Ma’ river and climbs up towards the Spanish mosque on the outskirts of town, providing absolutely amazing views over Chefchaouen.
- Find Some Kitty Cats: Not on your traditional list of things to do in Chefchaouen, but if you like cats, you will have fun here. It won’t take long to find one of Chefchaouen’s most prominent residents, the cats of Morocco’s blue city.
- Visit Talassemtane National Park: Talassemtane National Park is a beautiful national park in Morocco that was created in 2004 to preserve Morocco’s threatened fir forest. The name Talassemtane means “Cold Spring” in Arabic. It’s less than a 45-minute drive from Chefchaouen and offers plenty of hiking opportunities. It’s all where you’ll find Akchour waterfalls and God’s Bridge.
- The Bridge of God: is a lovely natural arc, 25m above the river Oued Farda. To get to the bridge, it is advisable to take a taxi a half-hour out of the blue town in Morocco to the small town of Akchour to start the hike to God’s Bridge. You’ll also get to see the stunning Akchour waterfalls here too. You can find the location here.
Where to stay in Chechaouen?
Dar Zambra
This hotel is located in the center of Chefchaouen and has a wonderful terrace with mountain views and a lounge area. All rooms are heated as they can get bitterly cold in the winter, and they have a private bathroom. As is typical in Morocco, breakfast is included. We love its location and the friendly staff, no wonder it’s a top-rated hotel in Chefchaouen.
La Petite Chefchaouen
If you like modern amenities, this hotel is the one for you. You can expect wonderful service, clean rooms, and great details at this hotel in Chefchaouen. The rooms are thoughtfully designed, and the modern panoramic terrace is tough to beat regarding views.
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