A Family Adventure in the Blue Pearl of Morocco

A Blue Awakening in Chefchaouen

After a long journey from Lisbon, involving a flight to Tangier and a scenic drive through the Rif Mountains, we finally arrived in Chefchaouen. The anticipation had been building, and I was eager to immerse myself and my family in the legendary blue city. As a tour guide, I'm used to exploring new places, but this time, having Francisca and Nilton with me made it extra special. I was looking forward to discovering the secrets of this Moroccan gem together.

The drive from Tangier was beautiful. The Rif Mountains provided a stunning backdrop as we wound our way toward Chefchaouen. Nilton was especially excited, his nose pressed against the window, constantly asking, Are we there yet? Francisca, ever the pragmatist, made sure we had plenty of water and snacks for the journey. I must admit, I had forgotten our power adapter, a rookie mistake for someone who travels as much as I do! Fortunately, Francisca had packed a portable charger, which saved the day.

Our arrival at Maison D'hôtes Afassi was a welcome respite. The riad was a haven of tranquility, and the personalized tour assistance they offered was a definite plus. After settling in, we were ready to explore.


Experience the charm of Chefchaouen at Maison D'hôtes Afassi, a cozy retreat with convenient amenities for travelers seeking adventure.
First on our list was the Chefchaouen Medina. As we stepped through one of the ancient gates, we were immediately enveloped in a world of blue. It was breathtaking. Every building, every alleyway, seemed to be painted in a different shade of azure, creating a mesmerizing effect. The air was filled with the sounds of local life – children playing, vendors hawking their wares, and the melodic call to prayer from a nearby mosque. The weather in Chefchaouen in May is generally pleasant, with comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the town.


Discover the enchanting blue streets of Chefchaouen Medina, a historical gem in Morocco offering culture, crafts, and breathtaking views of the Rif Mountains.
We started our exploration at Café Sindibad for a traditional Moroccan breakfast. The mint tea was particularly refreshing, and Nilton devoured the pancakes with gusto. Francisca enjoyed a local pastry, savoring the sweet flavors. It was the perfect way to start our day.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Sindibad in Chefchaouen – a cozy haven for food lovers seeking local delicacies.
As we wandered deeper into the Medina, I couldn't help but marvel at the architecture. The narrow, winding streets, the intricate doorways, and the vibrant blue hues all spoke of a rich history and culture. I learned that the city was founded in 1471 as a small Kasbah by Moulay Ali ibn Rashid al-Alami to defend against Portuguese invasions of northern Morocco. Later, it became a haven for Andalusian Muslims and Jews fleeing the Reconquista, which explains the unique blend of architectural styles.


Discover the captivating Kasbah of Chefchaouen, a historical landmark that showcases Morocco's rich heritage and stunning architectural beauty.

The beauty of Chefchaouen lies not just in its striking blue walls, but in the stories whispered through its ancient alleyways.

Our next stop was the Grand Mosque of Chefchaouen. While non-Muslims are not allowed inside, we admired its striking minaret and beautiful blue façade from the outside. The mosque is located in Place Outa el-Hammam, a bustling square that serves as the heart of the Medina. The square was filled with locals and tourists alike, creating a vibrant atmosphere.


Discover the stunning Grand Mosque of Chefchaouen, an architectural gem that embodies the rich cultural heritage of Morocco amidst the breathtaking blue-washed city.
I explained to Nilton the significance of the mosque as a place of worship and a symbol of the city's cultural heritage. Francisca, ever the artist, was drawn to the intricate details of the mosque's design, noting the geometric patterns and the elegant calligraphy. We took some photos, capturing the beauty of the mosque against the backdrop of the Rif Mountains.

For lunch, we chose Restaurant Bab Ssour, recommended by several locals. The restaurant offered a variety of Moroccan dishes, including vegetarian options, which was perfect for Francisca, who prefers plant-based meals. I ordered a tagine, a traditional Moroccan stew, while Nilton opted for grilled chicken. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Bab Ssour in Chefchaouen - where every bite tells a story.
After lunch, we decided to do some shopping at B & H Art Shop. The shop was filled with beautiful handmade garments, showcasing Moroccan culture and fashion. Francisca, with her keen eye for detail, was particularly impressed by the intricate embroidery and the vibrant colors. Nilton, of course, was more interested in the drums and other musical instruments. I ended up buying a beautiful hand-woven scarf for my mother, a souvenir that would remind her of our trip.


Explore the vibrant B & H Art Shop in Chefchaouen, where Moroccan culture and fashion come together in stunning handmade garments.
As the day drew to a close, we chose Chez Hicham for dinner. The restaurant was known for its traditional Moroccan cuisine and its cozy atmosphere. We enjoyed a delicious meal of couscous and grilled meats, savoring the flavors of Morocco. The staff was friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home.


Discover Chefchaouen's culinary gem: Chez Hicham - A blend of traditional Moroccan flavors and warm hospitality.
Looking back on our first day in Chefchaouen, I am filled with a sense of wonder and gratitude. The city is truly enchanting, and I am so glad to be sharing this experience with my family. From the blue-washed streets to the historic Kasbah and the delicious Moroccan cuisine, Chefchaouen has already captured our hearts. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings, with plans to visit Ras El Ma, Plaza Uta el Hamman, and the Ethnographic Museum of Chefchaouen. I am also looking forward to trying out Restaurant Bar Chaouen, a local bar that promises a taste of Chefchaouen's nightlife. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of adventure in the Blue Pearl of Morocco.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Ras El Ma, the Ethnographic Museum, and Plaza Uta el Hamman. I'm particularly interested in learning more about the local culture and history at the museum. And perhaps, we'll find a quiet spot to simply soak in the atmosphere and watch the world go by. Whatever we do, I know it will be another day filled with wonder and discovery.

And, of course, I need to remember to buy a power adapter! It seems I can’t be a tour guide all the time… sometimes I'm just a slightly forgetful dad!

The weather forecast for tomorrow is looking promising, with sunny intervals and temperatures around 20°C. Perfect for exploring the city on foot. Nilton is already excited about visiting Ras El Ma, the city's traditional water source. I have a feeling he'll want to splash around in the water, so I'll make sure to pack a change of clothes.

As I sit here writing this blog post, I can hear the distant sounds of music and laughter drifting up from the Medina. It's a reminder that Chefchaouen is not just a beautiful city, but a vibrant and living community. I am grateful to be here, to be experiencing this with my family, and to be able to share it with all of you. Until tomorrow, dear readers, may your own travels be filled with wonder and discovery.