Chefchaouen — Morocco's Blue City
A complete guide to Chefchaouen, Morocco's famous blue city: what to see, why it's blue, how to get there, the best photo spots, and how to combine it with a desert tour.
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Chefchaouen — the 'Blue Pearl' of Morocco — is a mountain town in the Rif where almost every wall, door and stairway is painted in shades of blue. It is one of the most photogenic places in the country and a favourite stop on longer Morocco itineraries.
Why is Chefchaouen blue?
Theories range from a Jewish tradition brought by refugees in the 1930s (blue symbolising sky and heaven), to keeping mosquitoes away, to simply keeping the houses cool. Whatever the origin, the result is a town that feels unlike anywhere else in Morocco.
Top things to do
- Wander and photograph the blue medina
- Climb to the Spanish Mosque for sunset views
- Relax in Plaza Uta el-Hammam by the kasbah
- Shop for local wool and handicrafts
How to get there & combine with the desert
Chefchaouen is about 4 hours from Fes and 2 hours from Tangier. It pairs naturally with a northern Morocco route — many travellers visit Chefchaouen, then Fes, then continue to the Sahara on our Fes desert tours. It also features on our 10-day and 14-day Morocco itineraries.
Frequently asked questions
Is Chefchaouen worth visiting?
How many days do you need in Chefchaouen?
Can you combine Chefchaouen with a desert tour?
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⚡ Spring & autumn dates fill fast — book ahead. · ✓ Free cancellation up to 48h before arrival.



