Plan Your Tangier Full Day Trip to Chefchaouen: A Complete Guide

Chefchaouen, affectionately known as the “Blue Pearl of Morocco,” is a charming town located in the Rif Mountains. With its predominantly blue-hued buildings, bustling souks and ancient Kasbah, it’s a must-visit destination for any traveler in Morocco. If you are in Tangier, you can make this day trip to Chefchaouen and experience the blue magic for yourself. Here is a complete guide on how to plan your Tangier Full Day Trip to Chefchaouen.

Experience

On this day trip, you get to explore the highlights of Chefchaouen, including its blue streets, ancient Kasbah, gardens, squares, souks, markets, and more. You will start early in the morning from Tangier, drive to the mountains, visit the city by foot, and have plenty of time to explore the various landmarks, take photos and shop.

Highlights

Some of the highlights of this full-day trip include:

• Exploring the blue-hued town of Chefchaouen in the Rif Mountains
• Scouring the souks for souvenirs such as woven fabrics, rugs, Berber jewelry, and leatherware
• Visiting the Kasbah, the Andalusian Gardens, and the Ethnic Museum
• Strolling around the Uta el-Hammam Square, the heart of the city
• Discovering the Mellah (Jewish neighborhood) and Es Sueca (textile and craft shops area)

How to Get There

The Tangier Full Day Trip to Chefchaouen tour starts with a pick-up from your hotel or Riad in Tangier. You will be transported in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan or coach to the natural beauty of the Rif Mountains. The journey takes approximately two hours each way, passing through picturesque landscapes of rolling hills, olive groves, and Berber villages on the way.

What to Bring

It’s important to bring the right attire and accessories for your day trip to Chefchaouen. We recommend comfortable, breathable clothing and walking shoes as you’ll be exploring the city on foot. Some additional items to consider bringing include:

• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat as it can get hot during the day
• A camera or smartphone to capture the awe-inspiring views and moments
• A bottle of water to keep yourself hydrated
• A small backpack or handbag to carry your essentials and souvenirs

Important Information

Before booking your Tangier Full Day Trip to Chefchaouen, there’s some important information you should know.

• The tour duration is around 10 hours, so expect to return to your hotel or riad in Tangier in the evening.
• The tour will be conducted in English and some other languages for larger groups.
• Note that the tour is not wheelchair accessible due to the steep streets and steps in Chefchaouen’s Medina
• Also, note that the tour price does not include lunch or entrance fees to monuments or museums

Book Your Tour Now

Booking your Tangier Full Day Trip to Chefchaouen couldn’t be easier. Simply follow this link to our partners at GetYourGuide, select the date of your choice, and complete the booking process. Payment is secure, and you can cancel for free up to 24 hours prior to the tour.

Book Your Tour Now

If you are interested in discovering the authentic charm, vibrant colors and enchanting sights of Chefchaouen, then the Tangier Full Day Trip to Chefchaouen is perfect for you. With informative guides and a comfortable tour, taking this trip is an experience in itself. Plan your trip now and discover the Blue Pearl of Morocco!

FAQ About Chefchaouen

What is Chefchaouen?

Chefchaouen is a city located in the Rif Mountains of northwest Morocco. It is known for its blue-painted buildings, winding streets, and vibrant culture.

What language is spoken in Chefchaouen?

The official language is Arabic but many people also speak Spanish or French. Tourists generally don’t have any problem communicating in English.

What is the history of Chefchaouen?

Founded in 1471, Chefchaouen was originally a small fortress town built by Moulay Ali Ben Moussa Ben Rached El Alami to fight off the Portuguese invasions. Over the centuries, the city has been influenced by the Spanish and Jewish communities who settled there.

What are the top tourist attractions in Chefchaouen?

There are many things to see and do in Chefchaouen, including:

• Medina
• Kasbah Museum
• Outa Hamam Square
• Ras El Maa Waterfall
• Spanish Mosque
• Jebel Bouhachem Natural Park

What is Medina?

The Medina or the old town of Chefchaouen is a maze of narrow alleyways, blue-painted buildings, and colorful souks, and the main attraction of the city. It is home to many shops selling handicrafts, silverware, and traditional Moroccan outfits.

What is Kasbah Museum?

The Kasbah Museum is a fortress built in the 18th century and was once the residence of the Sultans. It is now a museum that showcases the culture, history, and traditions of the city and the Rif region.

What is Ras El Maa Waterfall?

Located just outside the city, Ras El Maa is a small but beautiful waterfall that attracts visitors looking to escape the heat of the city in the summer months. It is a popular spot for picnics and swimming.

What is the Spanish Mosque?

The Spanish Mosque is an abandoned mosque built by the Spanish during their occupation of Morocco in the early 20th century. It now serves as a viewpoint from which visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

What is Jebel Bouhachem Natural Park?

Jebel Bouhachem Natural Park is a natural reserve located between Chefchaouen and Tetouan, comprising of forests, rivers, and mountains. Visitors can enjoy trekking, wildlife watching, or simply relaxing in the stunning natural surroundings.

What kind of food is available in Chefchaouen?

Chefchaouen has a variety of traditional Moroccan dishes, including tagines, couscous, and pastilla. The city is also famous for its pastries and sweets, such as chebakia and ghriba.

What is the best time to visit Chefchaouen?

The best time to visit Chefchaouen is in the spring and fall when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summers can be hot, and winters can be cold and rainy. However, regardless of the time of year, the blue-painted buildings of the Medina are a sight to behold.

Is Chefchaouen safe for tourists?

Chefchaouen is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with all cities, it is recommended that visitors take the usual precautions such as keeping an eye on their belongings and avoiding walking alone at night.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Chefchaouen

Chefchaouen, also known as the blue pearl of Morocco, is a small city nestled in the Rif Mountains. It is known for its distinct blue-washed buildings and narrow streets that provide a serene and calm atmosphere. If you are planning to visit Chefchaouen, you may be wondering what activities and sights are worth your time as a tourist. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Chefchaouen.

1. Explore the Blue Medina

The most iconic feature of Chefchaouen is its blue-washed medina, which covers the majority of the city. Exploring the narrow alleys and streets of the medina is a must-do activity. You can stop at the many shops selling traditional handicrafts and souvenirs or relax at one of the many cafes that line the streets. You will also come across many picturesque spots to take photos of the blue-washed buildings.

2. Visit the Kasbah Museum

Located in the heart of the medina is the Kasbah Museum, which is a former fortress that has been converted into a museum. The museum houses displays on traditional Moroccan crafts, including pottery, carpets, and textiles. It also provides a glimpse into the history and culture of the Rif Mountains and its people.

3. Hike to the Spanish Mosque

There are several hiking trails that lead to the Spanish Mosque, which is located on a hill overlooking the city. The hike takes about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace. Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Chefchaouen and its surroundings.

4. Relax at Ras El Maa Waterfall

Located just outside the medina is Ras El Maa Waterfall. It is a popular spot for both tourists and locals to relax and swim in the refreshing water. There are also several cafes and restaurants nearby where you can enjoy a meal or a cup of tea while taking in the beautiful views.

5. Visit the Outa El Hammam Square

Outa El Hammam Square is the main square in the medina and is surrounded by cafes and restaurants. It is a great spot to people-watch and soak up the atmosphere of Chefchaouen. You can also see the Grand Mosque, which is located on the square and is one of the largest mosques in the city.

6. Take a Cooking Class

Moroccan cuisine is known for its exotic flavors and spices. Taking a cooking class in Chefchaouen is a great way to learn how to make traditional Moroccan dishes such as tagine and couscous. You will also learn about the ingredients and spices used in Moroccan cuisine and get to sample the dishes you have prepared.

7. Shop at the Souk

The souk is the traditional marketplace where vendors sell everything from spices to clothing. Exploring the souk is a great way to experience the local culture and pick up some unique souvenirs. Be sure to haggle with the vendors to get the best price.

8. Take a Day Trip to Akchour

Located about 30 km from Chefchaouen is Akchour, which is a scenic natural reserve. It is known for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and beautiful landscapes. You can also take a dip in the natural pools or have a picnic in the lush greenery.

Book Your Tour Now

Chefchaouen is a beautiful and unique city that is definitely worth a visit. With a variety of activities and sights to see, you can easily spend several days exploring the city and its surroundings. From the blue-washed medina to the scenic hiking trails, there is something for everyone in Chefchaouen.