The square is lined with restaurants and little cafes where you can enjoy a traditional Moroccan dish or tea while breathing in the local atmosphere of the plaza. It is a small, conservative city that is a bit out of the way but is well worth the visitwashed in vibrant shades of blue, this place is one of a kind. [21], Chefchaouen has maintained strong relations with the inhabitants of the Jbala Region such as Akhmas, Ghomara, Ghazaoua, and Sanhaja tribes, particularly in terms of trade. 98 121-148 2020. [26][27][28], The industrial sector remains very weak despite the province's potential with its availability of human and natural resources. A little further along the cobbled path you'll find cardigans, shawls and blankets made from sheeps wool or camel hair are draped from rafters. (Recent Evolution of the Landscape Structure of the Chefchaouen Basin (1958-1986)) In G.R.G.Rif Ed. We receive compensation if you make a purchase, but it won't cost you anything extra. Grab a group and a taxi and make your way there. Ask first for their permission. I'll tell you what are the top things to see and do in and around Chefchaouen, where to stay, how to get there and how to leave from Chefchaouen in Morocco. One theory is that its based on the local belief that mosquitoes dont like the blue color. Chefchaouen (sometimes known as Chaouen) is a city found below the hills of Rif Mountains, about twenty miles away from the Mediterranean coast. Chefchaouen, also known as Chaouen, is a city located in northwestern Morocco, in the foothills of the Rif mountains. The real reason behind the color is not very clear. These Andalusian families built their own residential quarters surrounded by walls, in the Andalusian architectural style, very similar to the Arab quarters of Granada. He settled in Chefchaouen c.1465 and, due to his experience as a warrior, was chosen as successor to his cousin ibn Abi Jum'ah and leader of the Mujahideen in the northwest of Morocco. The staircase leads up to several houses. If you only have a limited amount of time in Morocco, Id say that one full day should be enough to discover the Blue Pearl as the old medina (Moroccan word for city) of Chefchaouen isnt very big. It was founded by Berber tribes in 1471 as a base to launch attacks on the Portuguese who had conquered Ceuta. [5], Ali Ben Rashid was born in Gherzoim, a nearby village, c.1440 (844AH). In addition, here we find several buildings of interest, such as the Alcazaba and the Great Mosque; also non-religious buildings of great cultural interest, such as the majestic natural spring where water comes gushing out of the mountain. Here's my ultimate Chefchaouen travel guide! We hope to inspire other independent travelers and provide them with the resources to do so. Learn more about Natasha Alden on The World Pursuit About Us Page. [17], Chefchaouen's residents commit to religious and social rituals. The most common route is through the north, specifically from the Tangier bus station. They are characterized by a rich flora, especially the forests of cork oak, green oak, endemic Moroccan fir, and Atlas cedar. Chefchaouen is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Morocco. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. In the center of Chefchaouen, Place Outa el Hammam sits a large 15th century Kasbah fortress. Niko and I spent about 3 days there as we also went on a couple of hikes around the city. Youll also come across many workshops where you can see the locals craft their goods. Flight distance is computed from a GPS-accurate great circle formula, which gives you the straight line distance "as the crow flies". Its less than a 45-minute drive from Chefchaouen and offers plenty of hiking opportunities. If youre planning on visiting Chefchaouen during the summer, its good to make a reservation in advance. However, a nice place to enjoy the evenings is Plaza Uta El-Hammam in the heart of Chefchaouens old medina. There are several theories behind this peculiar color, two of which stand out. As is typical in Morocco, breakfast is included. The devout perform prayer together in the mosque or the zaouia (i.e. This night is also celebrated in the mausoleum of Ali Ben Rashid and the 13, Hakouzah Day is celebrated on 1January of the agricultural solar calendar. People believe that the Jewish refugees spread the blue fever to the entire 'medina' in 1930. It's famous for all the houses and shops painted different shades of blue. A guesthouse-cum-restaurant, the eatery is popular with both locals and tourists, and many return again and again. The weather in Chefchaouen varies greatly throughout the year. Founded in 1471 by Moulay Ali Ben Moussa Ben Rached El Alami, Chefchaouen served as a Moorish fortress for exiles from Spain. There are several buses leaving daily from Chefchaouen to Fez. Talassemtane means cold spring in Berber, named after the many cascades and waterfalls you can find in the park. Its also a great way to travel solo if youre still new to traveling. Some researchers believe that the word. 7 STUNNING Moroccan Riads Youll Want to Book, 35 Fun and Interesting Facts About Morocco, 16 Morocco Travel Tips Tips To Know Before You Go. To find the answer you have to turn to history. Animal husbandry: Production of red meat is estimated at about 1,037.4 tons in 2016, of which 70% is beef, the rest mutton, and goat. Tripadvisor, I know pizza isnt what you go to Morocco for, but after a few weeks of traveling around the country, pizza was just what we needed. A few times we got invited by a baker or a weaver to visit their workshop and learn a bit more about their lifestyle (it helps if you speak some French or Moroccan Arabic!). We visited in the month of November and enjoyed the cool temperatures after leaving the heat of the desert in the cities of Marrakesh and Fes. Jewish communities, therefore paint things blue and use blue-colored fabrics, especially prayer mats. You can then compare the two results to see the difference. Theres no direct bus going from Marrakesh to Chefchaouen as theres a huge distance between both cities. [citation needed], This traditional agro-pastoral system of olive and fig plantations, cereal fields, and limited grazing pastures has been carried out for centuries. Each street always brought us something new and undiscovered. Hence Chefchaouen's nickname: the Blue City of Morocco. Niko and I once took one of the cheapest buses to get to Chefchaouen and although neither one of us got sick on the bus, a few locals did, and lets just say it was a messy and unpleasant experience for the eye and nose, Visit the best places in Morocco with these 3 Morocco itineraries. The trailhead starts near the campground located above the old city. However, if you book your ticket online, you still have to go to the CTM office to pay for your luggage on the day of departure so make sure you arrive at least 30 minutes in advance. Its such a popular town in Morocco that its often considered one of the best places to visit in the country! At some points, I even forgot I was in Morocco; and instead felt I was in a blue fairytale. If you have plans to visit Moroccosoon and have no idea what to pack for Morocco, youre, Seeking more information about riads and what a Riad is in Morocco? Locals and tourists alike are relaxed (perhaps its the hash), and I found there to be significantly less hassle than in Marrakech for females. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This might sound clich but the old medina of Chefchaouen is really the place to get lost. my name is Tarik, from marrakech, morocco. Here are a couple of options: Theres daily one CTM bus that goes from Casablanca to Chefchaouen at 13h30. Around almost every corner, youll find a little meow-box waiting for some attention. They established their quarters on the rugged slopes of the Chefchaouen Mountains. Whats in my camera bag Photography Essentials for Travel Photographers. Oct 26, 2021 - #oldcity #travel #architecture #photography #city #travelphotography #oldtown #ig #streetphotography #photooftheday #europe #history #photo #street #cityphotography #travelgram #hyderabad#beautiful #instagram #summer #instagood #love #nature #jerusalem #art #architecturephotographie #vieux #vie urbaine #bhfyp The city of Chefchaouen is located at about 600 metres (2,000ft) above sea level in the foothills of the Kaala mountain in the western part of the Rif mountain range, in northwestern Morocco. Youll find both CTM buses and Nejme Chamal buses leaving at different times during the day. One popular theory is that the blue keeps mosquitos away. It includes the emir's residence, a small mosque for the emir, a prison, a garden, a horse stable, sheds for the animals, and dozens of towers. Both multi-day treks and day trips are available, all of which start in Chefchaouen. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. We met several people while hanging out in Chefchaouen who agreed with a local to take them up to a farm for an enjoyable day trip. The Kasbah We invite you to read the history and details of this Kasbah, the starting point of the city. Hiking to the waterfalls of Akchour (see things to do around Chefchaouen). Souiqah quarter is the second-oldest residential agglomeration in the city and includes the houses of old Andalusian families and a large number of shops and stalls that sell local products. The traditional souk (bazaar, marketplace) has small shops and stalls selling traditional handiwork such as colorful porcelain utensils, textiles and clothing, leatherware, and various souvenirs. However, if you book your ticket online, you still have to go to the CTM office to pay for your luggage so make sure you arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. MEDA/MAR/B7-4100/IB/98/0532. The bus ride takes about 4 hours (with a toilet and food break in between) and one ticket costs 75 dirhams (+ 10 dirhams for your luggage). The roads are very windy and youll be happy to have a comfortable seat and air-conditioning if you easily suffer from motion sickness. In addition to its mountainous aspect, the province also has important sites on the Moroccan Mediterranean coast, such as El Jebha, Kaa-Asras, Chmaala, and Steha. The kasbah played a major role as a house of Makhzen (i.e. They ended up settling in Chefchaouen and painted all the walls blue, the color of divinity in Judaism. However, the schedules are very irregular and tickets must be purchased directly at the station since, although it is theoretically possible to buy them online, the website only accepts Moroccan credit cards. We love its location and the friendly staff, no wonder its a top-rated hotel in Chefchaouen. The best place to enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of Chefchaouen is at the Spanish mosque. There are many different theories to why Chefchaouen is so blue. All rooms are heated as they can get bitterly cold in the winter, and they have a private bathroom. Chefchaouen's powder-blue buildings mirror the cloudless Moroccan sky, but religious rather than stylistic . If you happen to be in Chefchaouen on a rainy day, it could be a good opportunity to visit one of the local hammams and experience a traditional Moroccan massage. Chefchaouen, the blue city of Morocco, is a beautiful town of cobalt-stained streets set amid the majestic Rif Mountains. Evolution rcente de la structure du paysage du Bassin de Chefchaouen (1958-1986). Although it's named the 'Blue City' due to its historically electric-blue walls and buildings, Chefchaouen's sights are as colorful as can be. Exploring the medina, having a cafe, and chatting with locals are wonderful ways to pass time. The kasbah is one of the first buildings constructed in the city in the Andalusian style. Vegetable and forage crops: are cultivated over an area of about 180ha (440 acres); Fruit arboriculture: fruit tree plantations cover approximately 52,013ha (128,530 acres), producing 654,930. There are daily about 4 CTM buses that go from Fez to Chefchaouen. It's famous because the entire city is painted blue! How to visit the leather tanneries in Fez. For a real local experience, you should visit Hammam El Harras, where youll be bathing between the local people. Naturally, there are a few answers to this question, but nothing definitive. [38] The Mausoleum of Abdessalam Ben Mshish al-Alami is dedicated to the patron saint of northern Morocco's Jebalah region, Moulay Abdessalam Ben Mshish al-Alami. The trail begins from Bab al Ansae, the medinas eastern gate and passes a river where you might spot some women doing their laundry. I mean, it's not authentic Morocco. If you want to travel with CTM, you should buy your ticket in advance, whether at the bus station or online. Here are some of the best things to do there! This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Everywhere you go, youll get the hint of hashish filling the air. Getting There 7. The only way to get to and leave Chefchaouen by public transport is by taking a bus or a taxi. [22], The traditional houses of Chefchaouen were made of stone, brick, tile, wood, soil, and lime. [6][9], Pressures of the Reconquista and the fall of Granada led many of its people to immigrate to Morocco, which continued for more than three centuries. Chefchaouen's blue walls are a popular subject of interest. The price for a ticket is 45 dirhams, and you have to pay 10 dirhams extra for your luggage. This image is of a blue staircase in the medina of Chefchaouen which is lined with colourful flower pots. There is no train station, so traveling by car is the best way to reach Chefchaouen. After you learn about the history of this city, the tour continues to the Ras El Maa spring where you get to enjoy the breathtaking views, the springs, watermills, and natural pools. [2] The city is also called "Chaouen" by the inhabitants of the northern region. [2], The city is also called "Chaouen" by the inhabitants of the northern region. Taqui, L. (2005). In terms of accommodation, Chefchaouen encompasses in 2016, 68 hotels, including 17 classified hotels, with a capacity of 1,796 beds, including 720 beds for classified hotels. Chefchaouen is undoubtedly one of Morocco's most picturesque towns and one of the world's most colorful cities. If you decide to make the trek to Chefchaouen, I would recommend at least two days to get around the town and enjoy the smells and unique shops. I wouldnt recommend visiting any of these farms during the summer and early autumn months, while marijuana is still growing. One of the most popular trails in the National Park are the ones to the Akchour Waterfalls and Gods Bridge (see above) but you can also go on a multiple-day trek all across the National Park. Often regarded as one of the prettiest towns in Morocco, the "blue city" of Chefchaouen doesn't disappoint. Chefchaouen, or chaouen, was built in the 15th century (early 1400s), but it wasn't until the the 1900s that it was painted blue. In Morocco, youll be expected to barter for your wares, battling for the best price possible. Often referred to as Morocco's Blue city, people from around the world visit to walk through feel the experience and the sight of the beautifully painted buildings, paths, and alleys. Prices vary from $30 to $60 per room per night. Chefchaouen in the North of Morocco is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen and we also got to explore it's lesser known Akchour waterfalls or the. 2023 Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures company. Beautifully perched beneath the raw peaks of the Rif, Chefchaouen is one of the prettiest towns in Morocco, an artsy, blue-washed mountain village that feels like its own world. They dont always like having pictures of them taken, especially when their children are around. Morocco Budget Guide: How much does it cost to travel in Morocco? It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. The city history is seen in the brightly painted medina (old town) with its blue-white facades, the narrow streets of the Bab Souk district, and the interior gardens of the Kasbah and its ramparts and towers, while the city is surrounded by diversified landscapes including mountains, forests, and beaches. The provincial population is 87.45% rural. The Chefchaouen Mountains belong to the Rif mountain range and are the destination of guided excursions. Morocco Holidays Morocco Tours Marrakech Tours Morocco Travel, Legal Notice Terms and Conditions Privacy Policy Cancellation Policy and Insurance, How to Make a Reservation Forms of Payment Passports and Visas FAQ, Chefchaouen. Her advice about international travel, outdoor sports, and African safari has been featured on Lonely Planet, Business Insider, and Readers Digest. Another hostel we recommend is theDar Bleu Pearl. Copyright 2021 Journal of Nomads. It is designated as a Mediterranean biodiversity hotspot (i.e. Along the two hiking trails mentioned above, youll come across some marijuana farms. The river is frequently visited by tourists. The last option I would recommend is atour to Chefchaouen, which will take the headache out of traveling to the Moroccan blue city yourself. There are daily several CTM buses that go from Tangier to Chefchaouen and the bus ride also takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes. There are several theories as to why the walls were painted blue. It was later settled by Moors and Jews in the Middle Ages, before more recently coming under Spanish rule in 1920 as part of Spanish Morocco. [20], High rainfall at altitude provides a potential for hydrological development. Morocco is a great destination to visit during any month of the year. A town as rich in history as it is beautiful, it was established in 1471 when Moorish and Jewish settlers fled here to escape the Reconquista of Spain. The tea is reputedly great for your health and is an important part of Moroccan life, as many locals meet for daily discussions over a steaming pot in one of the many cafes that line the higgledy-piggledy alleyways. HCP (Haut-Commissariat au Plan), (2018). However, read what to expect from a traditional Moroccan hammam to be prepared. Chaouen, as locals call it, is known worldwide for its cool blue streets. Cereal cultivation: Occupying an area around 23,100ha (57,000 acres), cereals are the most prevalent crops in the province; Legumes: Legumes are cultivated over an area of around 3,220ha (8,000 acres). The Blue City Tourist Trap It's true that Chefchaouen is a real city in Morocco with a lot of blue buildings. From a physiognomy perspective, the city is influenced by Andalusian architecture, such as the curved brick archways that strengthen the houses and decorate the narrow blue alleyways, the traditional water network, and the landscaping and care of plants inside houses and mosques. A resolution of the city council of Issaquah, Washington, establishing Chefchaouen, Morocco as Issaquah's newest sister city. (Rainfall could reach 1,4002,000mm per year, with snowfall over the mountain peaks.) [6][9], In October1920, General Dmaso Berenguer occupied the city for the Spanish protectorate in Morocco. This is the best and cheapest in the area. The rooms are thoughtfully designed, and the modern panoramic terrace is tough to beat regarding views. Embark on strenuous hillside hikes or idle strolls, bathe in mountain streams, or embrace the culinary scene and excellent shopping. Ras El Maa Spring and Laundry Area, If this is your first trip to Morocco, check out our guidebook with, Copyright 2023 | Feel Morocco | C.I.AN 416509-2 | All rights reserved. Tucked away in Africas northernmost mountain range, the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen has plenty to offer fitness fanatics and those looking for adventure. Thank you for helping to support this website! You can do so at your own risk personally, we dont want to see the inside of a Moroccan jail. You can help by adding to it. Chefchaouen is a tiny village in Morocco's northwestern Rif Mountains. If you would like to reach the city by bus, as in the previous case, it can be done from either the north or the south of the city. The Kasbah overlooks the Outae Hammam yard. Elments historiques danalyse cologique des paysages montagneux du Rif Occidental (Maroc) (Historical Elements of Ecological Analysis of the Mountain Landscapes of the Western Rif (Morocco)). The province of Chefchaouen is among the largest in Morocco, with an area of 3,443km2 (1,329sqmi).[relevant?] For silver plates and jewellery, stop at the sheltered trove along Hassan 1, where trinkets balance in precarious stacks and line the walls. It is the chief town of the province of the same name and is noted for its buildings in shades of blue, for which it is nicknamed the "Blue City". For more info, contact hello@journalofnomads.com. In person, the blue city of Chefchaouen doesn't even look authentic. [4] Along with the Ghomaras of the region, many Moriscos and Spanish and Portuguese Jews settled here during and after the Reconquista of Spain. That's it. They will take you to the local bus stations and charge double the regular ticket price for their services.. Its the cheapest hostel in town and has several dorm rooms as private rooms. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. (2013). Critique conomique, 30: 143-175. You can also book your journey with them online. The name "Chefchaouen" is of Tarifit or Tamazigh origin, derived from the word isakon or echaouen which means 'the horns', and the word chef which means 'look at'. October 13, 2022 0 2637 Chefchaouen, "blue city of Morocco" Chefchaouen "Chaouen" is an ideal spot to go on short trip in Morocco. Why Chefchaouen? Its probably somewhere in the middle as the tradition stuck, and the tourism dollars from photo-crazed Instagrammers certainly incentivized things! However, be respectful towards the local people when it comes to taking photos. She strives to make travel planning and traveling easier for all. There are a few different options depending on where you come from in Morocco to get to the blue city, Morocco.

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