Beyond the Blue: Exploring Chefchaouen for First-Time Visitors
Getting There and Around
Chefchaouen is a popular tourist destination with excellent accessibility.
Flights
Fly into either Tetouan or Tangier International Airport. Tetouan is generally more convenient for reaching Chefchaouen.
Ground Transport
- Public Buses: Utilize the efficient CTM bus service from the "Gare Routiere" (bus station) in Tetouan or Tangier.
- Petit Taxis: Ideal for getting around within the city.
When to Visit
- Shoulder Seasons (March-June & October-November): Enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and potentially lower accommodation prices.
- Peak Season (July-September & December): Expect higher prices and larger crowds.
- Considerations: Avoid visiting during major national holidays (November 6th & 18th, May 1st & 23rd) to minimize crowds.
I visited in December, and for a few days, the weather was cold, humid, and with showers during the night, making the traditional buildings in the medina even colder.
Where to Stay
- Location: Staying within the medina, ideally near the gates, provides easy access to transportation and minimizes the uphill struggle with luggage.
- Finding Accommodation: Utilize platforms like TripAdvisor to compare prices and read reviews before booking.
- Budget Tip: Consider options like guesthouses or riads for a more authentic experience.
Budgeting Tips
- Cash is King: Most businesses in Morocco operate on a cash-only basis.
- Travel Card: Consider using a travel card like the widely accepted Wise Travel Card for easy and secure transactions with potentially lower fees.
- ATM Withdrawals: Utilize ATMs from national banks like Al Barid to minimize withdrawal fees.
Safety Tips
- General Awareness: Exercise caution against petty theft and be wary of overly friendly locals who may attempt to solicit money.
- Respectful Dress: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Assertiveness: Don't hesitate to politely decline any unwanted attention or assistance.
As a female solo traveler, I consider Morocco a safe country to travel to. However, every traveler must exercise precautions.
Must-See Attractions
- Old Medina: Explore the labyrinthine blue streets, let yourself be mesmerized by the colorful crafts on the streets, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. This medina is the perfect place to slow down and dive into Moroccan culture.
- Plaza Uta El Hammam: One of the things I like to do when traveling to a new place is people watching, and there isn’t a better place for this than Plaza Uta El Hammam. Enjoy a traditional Moroccan mint tea and observe the lively local scene.
- Ras el-Maa Waterfall: Ras el-Maa is a small waterfall and a spot where local residents do their washing.
- Bouzafer Spanish Mosque: Admire the unique blend of Andalusian and Moroccan architecture at this historic site.
- Akchour Waterfalls & God's Bridge: If you feel a bit adventurous, you can embark on a scenic hike to the Akchour Waterfalls or the more accessible God's Bridge.
Immersive Experiences
- Cooking Class: Learn how to cook traditional Moroccan food and immerse yourself in the local culture by touring the souks with a local chef to select your own ingredients. Vegan and vegetarian options are available. If you have any dietary restrictions, please inform the organizers. Bookings can be made online on the Café Clock page. The workshop typically runs between 4.5 and 5 hours.
- Live Music: Music is one of the ways to immerse oneself in local culture, and Moroccan music offers a rich mixture of styles. From Amazigh and Andalusian to popular music influenced by Arab music, the Moroccan music scene will not disappoint you. Exotic traditional instruments such as the rebab, ud, tar, and qarqaba are popular and can be seen in most performances. Don't miss the opportunity to experience live music in Chefchaouen.
You can find daily sessions at Café Clock and Restaurant Blue Dream starting from 7 pm.
Must-Try Food & Drink
Moroccan food is rich in flavors and spices, utilizing a variety of vegetables and combining influences from Amazigh, Arab, Andalusian, and Mediterranean cultures, among others.
Some must-try dishes in Chefchaouen include:
- Bissara: A soup made from dried broad beans.
- Harira: A hearty soup made with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas, lamb, and seasoned with lemon juice and coriander.
- Tagine: A slow-cooked stew prepared in a pot of the same name, renowned for its rich flavors and spices.
- Pastilla: Perfect for both sweet and savory lovers.
- Moroccan Couscous: Traditionally served on Fridays in many restaurants.
While walking through the Medina, you'll find stalls selling Msemmen (Moroccan pancakes) and popular treats like Chebakia and Briwats. You'll also encounter juice shops and stalls offering fresh fruits and the popular Zaazaa, an avocado smoothie topped with seasonal fruits. Be adventurous!
Recommended Restaurants
- Restaurant Bab Ssour
- Assaada Restaurant
- Café Clock
- Restaurant Al Wian
Final Thoughts
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Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and may be subject to change. Always check the latest travel advisories and regulations before your trip.*
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to purchase something through the links, at no additional cost to you.
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Travel Responsibly!
Support Local Businesses: Opt for local accommodations, restaurants, and shops to contribute directly to the community's economy. This helps sustain local livelihoods and fosters a more authentic travel experience.
Minimize Environmental Impact: Practice responsible environmental habits such as minimizing single-use plastics, conserving water and energy, and participating in local conservation efforts. Leave natural and cultural sites as you found them to preserve their integrity.
Choose Sustainable Transportation: Opt for eco-friendly transportation like public transport, cycling, or walking whenever possible. If you need to hire transportation, consider companies with environmentally conscious practices.
Engage in Responsible Wildlife Tourism: Avoid supporting activities that exploit or harm animals. Choose wildlife excursions and sanctuaries that prioritize the well-being and conservation of the animals.
Be Mindful of Waste: Dispose of waste properly and recycle when available. Carry a reusable water bottle and shopping bag to minimize single-use waste during your travels.
Conserve Energy: Conserve energy in your accommodation by turning off lights, air conditioning, and electronics when not in use. Opt for accommodations that have implemented energy-efficient practices.
Respect Wildlife and Nature: Keep a safe distance from wildlife, and refrain from disturbing natural habitats. Stay on designated trails when hiking and follow guidelines provided by local authorities.
Contribute Positively: Engage with the local community in a positive and meaningful way. If you have time, participate in responsible tourism initiatives, such as community-based projects or volunteering opportunities, to give back to the places you visit.
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