Is Chefchaouen good for photography?

Exceptionally so. The blue lanes, doorways and staircases are among the most photogenic in Morocco, particularly in the softer light of morning and late afternoon.

How much walking is involved?

The old town is hilly with cobbled lanes and steps, and the viewpoint involves a short uphill walk. The pace is entirely yours, with plenty of places to rest and enjoy the atmosphere.

Chefchaouen Blue City Tour

Overview

Chefchaouen, the fabled Blue Pearl of the Rif, is one of Morocco's most magical towns — an entire hillside old quarter painted in dreamy shades of blue. This private tour is dedicated to exploring its photogenic lanes, lively squares and mountain setting at a relaxed, unhurried pace with your own driver and, if you wish, a local guide.

You will wander the cascade of cobalt staircases and flower-draped doorways that make Chaouen so beloved of photographers, pausing in the shaded Plaza Uta el-Hammam beneath its great fig tree and beside the red-walled kasbah. The town's artisans — weavers of woollen blankets, leatherworkers and makers of mountain honey and goat's cheese — add colour and craft to the experience, and there is ample time simply to sit with a mint tea and watch the town go by.

For the finest views, a gentle walk up to the Spanish Mosque above the town is rewarded with a sweeping panorama over the blue rooftops, especially beautiful in the soft light. Given its location in the north, this tour is ideally combined with a stay in Fes or a northern itinerary rather than a day trip from Marrakech.

Highlights

The iconic blue-washed lanes and staircases
Plaza Uta el-Hammam and the historic kasbah
Panoramic views from the Spanish Mosque
Local weavers, leather and mountain crafts
Relaxed mint tea in a photogenic square
The green, cool setting of the Rif Mountains

What's included

Private air-conditioned vehicle with fuel
Professional English-speaking driver
Hotel pick-up and drop-off (Fes or the north)
Bottled water
All road tolls and parking
Flexible, tailor-made itinerary

Not included

Lunch and drinks
Optional local walking guide
Personal shopping and expenses
Gratuities

Itinerary

1
Morning · Journey to the Blue City
Set off from Fes (or your northern base) and drive through the green Rif countryside to Chefchaouen, arriving to begin your exploration of the enchanting medina.
2
Midday · Exploring the blue lanes
Wander the cobalt streets and staircases, visit the Plaza Uta el-Hammam and kasbah, meet local artisans and enjoy a relaxed lunch in a characterful spot.
3
Afternoon · Viewpoint and return
Walk up to the Spanish Mosque for the classic panorama over the blue town, with time for photography and tea, before the return drive to your base.

Gallery

Frequently asked questions

No — Chefchaouen is in the far north, around eight hours from Marrakech. It is best visited from Fes (about four hours) or Tangier, or as part of a northern or imperial-cities itinerary.