If you’re looking for a unique spot, you will absolutely fall in love with this one.
Chefchaouen is known as the The Blue Pearl of Africa, it is a heavenly city in Northern Morocco situated in the Rif Mountains, just inland from Tangier and Tetouan.
Chefchaouen was established in 1471 in the Rif mountains by Jewish and Moors fleeing Spain. There’s a lot of different theories about why Chefchaouen is blue. Some say it was painted blue by the Jewish settlers after fleeing Hitler, others say it’s to keep the mosquitos away, while some just said it represents the colour of the sea or because it looks like the sky and reminds them to think of God.
We’ve always wanted to go Morocco but weren’t sure at first. We have seen plenty of photos from the city with blue walls on instagram and travel media. Firstly, it is very far from Tangier, we’ll tell you how to get there but you have to be prepared for that, don’t expect the luxury lifestyle.
Chefchaouen is full of surprises, as you know Africa is our home and this reminds us how Africa can still surprise us. It’s like stepping into a fairytale, blue everywhere like a dream and there is absolutely nothing else like it in the world. A very rare gem and this place reminds us of Santorini so much but different colour.
Things to do?
The small city of Chefchaouen is well worth exploring for a day or two
It’s amazing vibe was very relaxed when wandering in Medina. The best way to explore the old city of Chefcaouen, is to get lost. Every corner you will find hidden gems shining with 50 shades of blue. There is no one street you need to see, you will see them all.
There are fewer tourists which is a bonus, you can take a lots of picture out there! If you fancy watching the sunset, Spanish Mosque is a must.
If you’re itching for hiking or a dip in the pool, hire a guide to take you to the beautiful surrounding countryside and visit Cascades d’Akchour ‘Waterfall’
This is a best place to shop in the street because its high quality, genuine and reasonable prices.
Where to eat?
The “Plaza” Uta el-Hammam, there are cafes and restaurants all around. This is a peaceful place to relax and try some delicious treats after a long day exploring. We had Tagine for 35 dirham, it is very very cheap and tastes amazing and authentic.
Chez Aziz – For a decent selection of pastries, make your way here. Pizzas and paninis are also delicious. You can get lovely smoothies and juices.
Cafe Restaurant Sofia and Beldi Bab Sour family run restaurant with typical Moroccan cuisine, quality and affordable.
We had a lovely drinks at the terrace of Hotel Parador, perfect place to view Chefchaouen.
Where to stay?
We had a wonderful stay at Puerta Azul, very traditional, beautiful hotel with kind hosts, breakfast is also included, we really enjoyed the Moroccan cuisine! Its easy enough to get to the main Medina of the city by foot from the hotel. If you really fancy having a spa, theres a hotel called Lina Ryad & Spa
How to get there?
Surprisingly the flight only takes 3 hours from Europe! But If you’re flying from London, there is no direct flight. So, we flew into Tangier via Casablanca, so to get to Chefchaouen from Tangier we took a taxi, please make sure you book in advance which took 2.5 hours and cost 360 MAD return.
Tips?
Morocco is a muslim country, it’s important to be respectful of their culture and dress appropriately.
Carrying cash is highly recommended as not many cash machines.
Make sure you bring your own toilet rolls everywhere, public toilets don’t provide.
Ignore the random people offering you a free guide or direction. Go to official tour guides.
It’s really a place to chill out and enjoy being there! Taking in a wonderful culture and architecture.
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