While you could spend days simply being enchanted by the “Blue City” of Chefchaouen, the area has so much more to offer. From picturesque cascades and swimming holes to protected fir forests and rugged hiking trails, the Rif Mountains are breathtaking, to say the least.
We've spent quite a bit of time in Chefchaouen and whenever we visit, I love getting out to explore the surrounding landscapes. It's a great opportunity to scratch below the surface of what has become such an Insta-famous destination and really immerse yourself in the local culture.
Read on to discover 5 of the best tours from Chefchaouen, including traditional cooking classes and guided city tours with a local at the help.
For more Chefchaouen travel inspiration, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Chefchaouen, which details things to see and do, travel logistics and the best time to visit.
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Just looking for a transfer? This private Chefchaouen transfer from Tangier offers door-to-door service in an air-conditioned minivan. You can also find a detailed description of some of Chefchaouen's best riads and dars here.
Get ready for a scenic adventure on a guided tour to Cascades d'Akchour! This breathtaking series of waterfalls tumbles into several pristine rock pools, perfect for a refreshing summer swim.
On arrival, you’ll walk to the first of the waterfall where you’ll have time to soak up the area’s natural beauty and enjoy a freshly squeezed orange juice or traditional mint tea. If you’re feeling energetic, continue walking to the second cascade and the towering Bridge of God, a natural rock arch spanning the Oued Farda River.
The great thing about this tour to Akchour Waterfalls is that it is tailored to your fitness level and hiking pace. When hunger strikes, you can enjoy traditional Moroccan fare at one of the open-air restaurants lining the waterway.
“Incredible guides!! They were worried about making us have a good time, being safe and they never rushed us!” (read more reviews here)
Beyond the bright blue facades of Chefchaouen lies a rich food culture waiting to be explored. Join a local chef on a culinary adventure into Moroccan cuisine and discover what sets Chefchaouen apart.
Wander through the bustling market, taking in the sights and smells as you gather ingredients for the evening's feast. Back in the kitchen, watch as your host deftly demonstrates age-old cooking techniques passed down through generations.
Sizzle spices in a tagine, knead dough for fresh bijeeya bread and hear the stories behind each dish as you help prepare a multi-course Moroccan dinner. With the chef's guidance, you’ll immerse yourself in the flavours, history and cultural traditions of Morocco one tasty bite at a time.
“Fun, informative and authentic” - Nana (read more reviews here)
Best tours in Chefchaouen
There’s nothing like exploring a city with a local and this guided tour of Chefchaouen receives rave reviews from other travellers. As you weave through the narrow alleys with your private guide, discover the reasoning behind the indigo-washed walls that surround you in a sea of blue.
Listen as your guide shares insights into the city's unique Arab-Andalusian architecture and heritage before marvelling at the 15th-century Grand Mosque. Venture to the cascading Ras El Maa waterfall, a sacred site for locals, and soak up the incredible views from the Spanish Mosque.
With your local guide tailoring the experience around your personal interests, you'll uncover Chefchaouen's charms at your own pace and discover things you won’t find in the guidebooks. Whether you crave early morning serenity or prefer the energy of midday, customisable tour times are available to suit your itinerary.
“Muhammad is a great tour guide, really friendly and knowledgeable about the city. I came away with a much better understanding of, not just the city, but Morocco.” - Danielle (read more reviews here)
Immerse yourself in the Rif Mountain’s fascinating history and culture on this private walking tour of Chefchaouen, which ticks off all of the city’s top sights. Wander the winding alleys of the medina while admiring its Andalusian-influenced architecture, cobalt walls and intricately carved doorways.
Make your way to the Chefchaouen Cemetery to contemplate the city's complex history, then relax in Outa el Hammam, the bustling main square of Chefchaouen. Sit awhile amidst its energy before visiting the Kasbah fortress and Chefchaouen's first mosque. Though the impressive Grand Mosque is off-limits to non-Muslim visitors, you can still admire its rare, octagonal minaret.
Your guide will lead you to the enchanting Ras El Maa waterfall before ending the day watching one of Morocco’s best sunset at the hilltop Spanish Mosque.
“This was the best walking tour I have ever been on…Nouaman went above and beyond! Kept the tour interesting for our group and gave us so many insights and recommendations. Highly recommend.” - Allison (read more reviews here)
Best tours from Chefchaouen
Discover Morocco's natural wonders on this exclusive adventure to Mount Lakraa from Chefchaouen. Led by an expert local guide, it includes pick-up direct from your hotel and a scenic drive through the breathtaking countryside in a private 4WD.
Pass by centuries-old forests as you make your way deep into Talassemtane National Park, which was established in 2004 to preserve Morocco's threatened fir forests. Lace up your hiking boots and climb to the summit of Mount Lakraa, where unforgettable views of the Mediterranean coastline await you. After taking in the panoramic vistas, descend the mountain and stop in a charming local village for a traditional Moroccan lunch paired with aromatic herbal tea.
This guided hiking tour from Chefchaouen includes everything you need to fully experience the remote beauty of the Rif Mountains, from transportation in a private 4WD to expert guiding on scenic hikes.
"We couldn't have asked for a better guide. Yassin was informative, resourceful and attentive to all our needs. The drivers and local people we met through him were very friendly. All and all it was a fulfilling and uplifting day long experience.” (read more reviews here)