Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco: Aigerim's Adventure in Chefchaouen

Chasing Waterfalls and City Views in Chefchaouen

Today was all about embracing the natural beauty and rich culture that Chefchaouen has to offer. Daniel and I, along with our friends, set out to explore beyond the famous blue walls, discovering hidden gems and breathtaking vistas that painted a vivid picture of this Moroccan jewel. As someone who appreciates the blend of technology and travel, I found myself constantly reaching for my camera, wanting to capture every moment, every shade of blue, every intricate detail that makes this city so unique.

Our day began with a leisurely stroll to Ras El Ma, a refreshing natural spring located just beyond the northeastern gate of the medina. The walk itself was a delight, as we meandered through the bustling streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the morning market. I couldn't help but notice the stark contrast between the lively energy of the market and the tranquil oasis that awaited us at Ras El Ma.

Reaching Ras El Ma, the sound of cascading water immediately enveloped us, creating a sense of serenity and calm. Local women were gathered at the spring, doing their washing in the cool, clear water, a scene that felt both timeless and deeply connected to the rhythm of daily life. The fresh water flowing from the mountain provided a surprising and powerful dose of nature, a welcome escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Daniel, ever the curious data scientist, was fascinated by the engineering of the spring, while I was simply content to sit by the water's edge, listening to the soothing sounds and capturing the moment with my camera.


Experience the serene beauty of Ras El Ma, a tranquil oasis in Chefchaouen, where nature and Moroccan culture blend seamlessly for a perfect escape.

The beauty of Chefchaouen lies not only in its blue walls but also in the hidden corners where nature and culture intertwine.

After spending some time at Ras El Ma, we decided to embark on a hike to the Bouzafer Mosque, also known as the Spanish Mosque. The trail leading up to the mosque offered stunning panoramic views of Chefchaouen, its blue-washed buildings cascading down the hillside like a vibrant waterfall. The November air was crisp and refreshing, making the uphill climb a pleasant challenge. As we ascended, we passed through scenic trails, each turn revealing a new and breathtaking perspective of the blue city and the surrounding Rif Mountains.

The Bouzafer Mosque itself is a historical and cultural landmark, built by the Spanish during their occupation of northern Morocco in the 1920s. Although it was never officially used for worship, the mosque has become an iconic attraction, drawing visitors from far and wide. Reaching the top, we were rewarded with an unparalleled view of Chefchaouen, bathed in the warm glow of the afternoon sun. The city stretched out before us, a mesmerizing tapestry of blue hues, punctuated by the green of the surrounding landscape.


Explore the Bouzafer Mosque in Chefchaouen, where stunning architecture meets serene spirituality amidst the blue hues of the city.

I learned that the mosque was originally intended to appease the local population during the Spanish colonial rule. However, the residents boycotted it, viewing it as impure. Despite its initial failure, the mosque now stands as a testament to Chefchaouen's diverse heritage and enduring legacy. The hilltop location made it the perfect spot to watch the sunset, as the golden light cast a magical glow over the town. Although the sun dipped behind the mountains before fully setting, the atmosphere was incredible, with many people gathering to admire the view.

As the day drew to a close, our stomachs began to rumble, leading us to the charming Restaurant Triana for dinner. The restaurant is known for its Spanish-influenced cuisine, offering a delightful blend of traditional Moroccan flavors and modern culinary techniques. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with live music adding to the ambiance. We started with some refreshing Moroccan mint tea, a staple of our culinary adventures here.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Triana in Chefchaouen – where tradition meets flavor in a picturesque setting.

For our main courses, Daniel opted for the lamb tagine, while I decided to try the seafood salad. The lamb tagine was slow-cooked to perfection, infused with aromatic spices that transported our taste buds to another world. My seafood salad was equally delicious, a medley of fresh flavors that perfectly captured the essence of the Mediterranean. We also enjoyed the quinoa salad and the cheese platter. The service was excellent, and the staff were friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home.

After dinner, we strolled through the medina, soaking in the magical atmosphere of the blue city at night. The streets were alive with activity, as locals and tourists alike mingled in the narrow alleyways, enjoying the cool evening air. We stopped by Blue. concept store, a charming shop that caught my eye with its unique selection of Moroccan crafts and souvenirs. I couldn't resist purchasing a few small trinkets to remind me of our time in Chefchaouen, supporting local artisans in the process.


Explore the vibrant culture of Chefchaouen at Blue. Concept Store, your go-to destination for unique Moroccan gifts and artisanal treasures.

Before heading back to our riad, we decided to indulge in one last culinary experience at Mandala, a pizzeria known for its delicious Italian food and lively atmosphere. Despite being quite full from dinner, we couldn't resist sharing a pizza, savoring the flavors of Italy in the heart of Morocco. The jazz music playing in the background added to the ambiance, creating a perfect ending to our day. I opted for the spaghetti bolognaise. The staff were friendly and the food was awesome.


Experience unique pizza flavors in Chefchaouen's enchanting atmosphere at Mandala – where Moroccan tradition meets culinary creativity.

Reflecting on the day, I realized that Chefchaouen is more than just a pretty blue city; it's a place where cultures collide, where nature and architecture intertwine, and where every corner holds a new discovery. As we prepare for our hike in Talassemtane National Park tomorrow, I'm filled with anticipation for more adventures and breathtaking views. It will be nice to trade the city for some nature.

Tomorrow, we're planning a day trip to Talassemtane National Park. I'm looking forward to immersing myself in the natural beauty of the Rif Mountains, exploring the hiking trails, and discovering the hidden waterfalls and natural wonders that this region has to offer. I've heard whispers of God's Bridge, a stunning rock formation that I'm eager to witness firsthand. I will make sure to bring my camera!

The promise of adventure and discovery keeps me excited for what tomorrow will bring, and I can't wait to share those experiences with you all. I made sure to charge my camera, since I forgot an extra memory card.

As I sit here writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this magical city and share my experiences with you. Chefchaouen has captured my heart with its blue-washed charm, its rich culture, and its breathtaking landscapes. It's a place that I will never forget, and I hope that my words and pictures can inspire you to visit this Moroccan gem and create your own unforgettable memories.

Good night from Chefchaouen!