Chefchaouen: The Blue Pearl of Morocco
Discover the magic of Morocco's iconic blue-washed mountain city
Culinary Delights

Must-Try Specialties
- Goat Meat Tagine - Local specialty
- Rif Mountain Couscous - With seven vegetables
- Harcha - Traditional semolina bread
- Bessara - Fava bean soup with olive oil
- Harira - Hearty lentil and chickpea soup
- Mint Tea - Served with local mountain honey
Cultural Treasures

Heritage & Landmarks
Explore Chefchaouen's fascinating history through its iconic blue streets and historic attractions...
Top Attractions
- The Blue Medina - Famous blue-washed streets
- Outa el Hammam Square - Heart of the medina
- Spanish Mosque - Panoramic sunset views
- Kasbah Museum - 15th century fortress
- Ras El Maa - Mountain water source
- Local Artisan Shops - Handmade crafts
- Akchour Waterfalls - Nearby natural wonder
City Map
Mountain Gem

The Blue Medina
Chefchaouen shines as Morocco's most photogenic city, with its iconic blue-washed buildings nestled in the Rif Mountains. The city features historic landmarks like the Spanish Mosque, the Kasbah Museum, and the vibrant Outa el Hammam square. As the cultural capital of the Rif region, it offers traditional crafts including wool weaving and pottery. Chefchaouen blends mountain tranquility with Andalusian influences through its blue alleyways, artisan shops, and authentic local culture.
Chefchaouen's Signature Dishes
Experience the mountain flavors of Chefchaouen through its most celebrated specialties

Goat Meat Tagine
Local goat meat cooked in a clay tagine, almonds, and sesame seeds - a unique Chefchaouen specialty that blends sweet and savory flavors.
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Rif Mountain Couscous
Chefchaouen's version of couscous features seven seasonal vegetables and is often served with lamb or chicken, cooked in the traditional way over steam.
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Bessara
A creamy fava bean soup drizzled with local olive oil and sprinkled with cumin, traditionally eaten for breakfast with fresh bread in Chefchaouen.
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Harcha
A buttery semolina bread that's a staple in Chefchaouen, often served with honey or jam for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day.
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Msemen
Flaky layered pancakes that are a popular street food in Chefchaouen, often served with honey or stuffed with savory fillings.
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Mountain Mint Tea
Chefchaouen's mint tea is famous for being prepared with fresh mountain mint and local honey, served in ornate silver teapots.
View Recipe →Things to Do in Chefchaouen
Discover Morocco's iconic blue city and its stunning mountain attractions

The Blue Medina
Wander through the famous blue-washed streets of Chefchaouen's old town, where every corner offers perfect photo opportunities and charming artisan shops.
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Spanish Mosque
Hike to this abandoned mosque for the best panoramic views of Chefchaouen's blue medina against the backdrop of the Rif Mountains, especially magical at sunset.
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Kasbah Museum
Explore the 15th-century fortress at the heart of Chefchaouen, featuring beautiful Andalusian gardens and a museum showcasing local history and artifacts.
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Ras El Maa
Visit this picturesque mountain spring where locals gather water, surrounded by traditional water mills and offering a cool respite from the medina's alleys.
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Akchour Waterfalls
Take a day trip to these stunning waterfalls in the Talassemtane National Park, featuring natural pools perfect for swimming and dramatic cliff formations.
Know more +GEOGRAPHY & LOCATION
Chefchaouen is a picturesque mountain town in northwestern Morocco, nestled in the Rif Mountains.
- Coordinates: 35°10′N 5°16′W
- Area: 12 km² (4.6 sq mi)
- Elevation: 564 m (1,850 ft)
DEMOGRAPHICS
Chefchaouen is known for its distinctive blue architecture and Andalusian influence.
- City population: 42,786
- Primary language: Moroccan Arabic
- Local language: Tarifit (Rif Amazigh)
- Religions: Predominantly Muslim
CLIMATE & WEATHER
Chefchaouen has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and warm summers:
- Summer (Jun-Sep): 18-28°C (64-82°F)
- Winter (Dec-Feb): 5-15°C (41-59°F)
- Annual rainfall: 800 mm (31 in)
- Best time to visit: Spring and Fall
CULTURE & HISTORY
Chefchaouen blends Andalusian, Amazigh, and Moroccan traditions.
- Founded: 1471
- Architecture: Andalusian influence
- Famous for: Blue-washed buildings
- Local crafts: Wool weaving, pottery
ECONOMY & CURRENCY
Chefchaouen's economy is based on tourism, agriculture, and crafts.
- Currency: Moroccan Dirham (MAD)
- Key industries: Tourism, agriculture
- Local products: Goat cheese, honey
- Handicrafts: Wool garments, pottery
TRANSPORTATION
Chefchaouen is accessible by road from major Moroccan cities:
- Nearest airports: Tangier (2.5h) or Tetouan (1.5h)
- CTM buses: From Casablanca, Tangier
- Grand taxis: From Tetouan or other nearby cities
- Local transport: Walking is best in the medina
Key Highlights of Chefchaouen:
World-famous blue-washed medina
Stunning Rif Mountain setting
One of Morocco's most photographed cities
Unique mountain cuisine