Concealed deep in Morocco's Rif Mountains in the north, Chefchaouen is a place that vows to not be there at all. Nicknamed the "Blue Pearl," this small town is famous for its brightly painted blue buildings, cobblestone streets, and an atmosphere that somehow manages to balance tranquillity with an air of mystery. For travellers to come or to simply travel and have travellers who'd want to fill their bags with memories and experiences that they'll never forget, then Chefchaouen is an experience on every corner.
The Blue City of Chefchaouen: A Photographer's Paradise
With its relaxed environment, friendly locals, and breathtaking views, this is not a place to miss on your Morocco tour. Though Chefchaouen can be accessed by bus or taxi from bigger cities such as Tangier or Fez, renting a car will be more convenient when travelling in and around the rural areas on your own time. Local Rent, an aggregator of car rentals, has efficient packages for travellers interested in experiencing Morocco's scenic drives.
Chefchaouen is Blue, Why?
The most interesting thing about Chefchaouen may be the eye-catching blue colouring that covers nearly every building within the old medina. Many theories exist for why the city is blue, with some being of the opinion that it was introduced by Jewish refugees in the 15th century, who had painted their homes blue to signify heaven and sky. Others claim it's to keep the mosquitoes away, as the colour is supposed to repel them. Whatever the reason, Chefchaouen's blue streets are famous and now one of Morocco's most popular spots to be photographed.
Best Photography Spots in Chefchaouen
The Medina: A Blue Maze
Chefchaouen's medina is an ancient, snake-like complex of narrow alleyways, arched doorways, and steep stairways all in different shades of blue. Around each corner another photo opportunity awaits, either a local shopkeeper hawking hand-made throw blankets, an old wooden doorway with beautiful wood carvings, or a stray cat sleeping in a sunbeam in a doorway. Photographers will find the morning and afternoon early when the light is ideal. The gentle sun rays produce texture on walls as shadows produce depth in every photograph. Contrary to the busy medinas in Marrakesh or Fez, streets here are very deserted with little interference with a photo shoot.
Plaza Uta el-Hammam: The Heart of the City
The social centre of Chefchaouen is Plaza Uta el-Hammam, the main square. Surrounded by blue-painted houses, quaint cafes, and old Kasbahs, this busy area mixes traditional Moroccan architecture with everyday life. To obtain an ageless photograph, go to one of the roof cafes that overlook the square. Stand at the top and snap a photo of the Kasbahs' terracotta walls' contrasting color against the blues of the other buildings around it, and it will be a work of art.
The Kasbah: A Different Perspective
The Kasbah of Chefchaouen is a 15th-century fortress. It lacks the blue dye of the medina but compensates with reddish-brown walls and the greens of its gardens. It houses a small museum of the history of the city, but its attraction is the view from the tower. Ascending to the top gives the visitors a panorama of the medina, which is highly dramatic with the Rif Mountains looming above it as a background.
Ras El Maa Waterfall: A Secret Gem
Outside the medina, Ras El Maa is a small, stunning waterfall where locals wash clothes, take a sip, or simply sit and listen to the gurgle of flowing water. The view is stunningly composed of nature and everyday life, and a great spot to take candid shots. The rolling hills and green countryside surrounding it are also an excellent backdrop for nature photography.
Spanish Mosque: Sunset to Remember
For the best sunset photography spots in Chefchaouen, trek a short distance to the Spanish Mosque perched on a hill just beyond the city. The trek is relatively easy and will take under 30 minutes to reach. At the summit, the treat will be an amazing panoramic view of Chefchaouen bathed in golden light. At sunset, the blue hues of the city are mystical, and you can take a shot that no photographer would ever miss. A tripod is advisable if you are photographing at sunset because the fading light also offers possibilities for long-exposure shots.
Beyond Chefchaouen: Exploring the Rif Mountains
As beautiful as Chefchaouen itself is, the Rif Mountains that encircle it provide yet more possibilities for trekking and photography. A rented car makes it easy to head out into the countryside, where there are Berber villages, green valleys, and solitary trekking routes still off the tourist map. The Akchour Waterfalls, approximately an hour and a half by car from Chefchaouen, are any nature enthusiast's dream. The hike to the waterfalls is along stunning views, with turquoise pools and expansive rock formations along the way. It is ideal for taking landscape shots and immersing oneself in Morocco's diverse natural landscapes.
Practical Tips for Visiting Chefchaouen
- The best time to visit: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are best from a climatic perspective. It is too hot in summer and winter nights are cold.
- What to wear: Cover-up clothing is recommended since Chefchaouen is a conservative town. Comfortable shoes are necessary since the town is situated on hills.
- Photography etiquette: Although Chefchaouen is heaven for photographers, do not be shy to ask permission before clicking close-up shots of the locals, as a few would object.
- Reaching there: The closest international airports are at Tangier and Fez. You can then drive down to Chefchaouen in 2 to 3 hours from there. Booking a car rental from Local Rent guarantees ease of driving and the freedom to explore the countryside.
A City That Captivates the Senses
Chefchaouen is more than just a beautiful city - it’s a place that captivates the senses with its colours, culture, and laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re capturing the intricate details of blue-painted alleys, the golden glow of a sunset from the Spanish Mosque, or the raw beauty of the Rif Mountains, every moment in Chefchaouen is worth preserving.
For travellers and photographers, this Moroccan city is an eye feast without parallel. To travel there is not to take pictures, but to be in a country where in every corner of the street there is a story and in every shade of blue an invitation to the imagination! (Image source: Unsplash)
