Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco with Friends

A Dream in Blue

After a long journey from Berlin, with a layover in Tangier, I've finally arrived in Chefchaouen, the famed Blue Pearl of Morocco. The drive here with my friends was stunning, the landscape shifting from bustling cityscapes to the serene Rif Mountains. I'm excited to dive into this adventure, camera in hand, ready to capture the essence of this unique place. Today, I'm planning to explore the heart of Chefchaouen, immersing myself in its culture and history.

Our first stop was Maison D'hôtes Afassi, our accommodation for the next nine days. It's a charming place, promising a tranquil escape right in the heart of the city. After settling in, we ventured out, eager to lose ourselves in the blue-washed streets I’d seen in countless photos.


Experience the charm of Chefchaouen at Maison D'hôtes Afassi, a cozy retreat with convenient amenities for travelers seeking adventure.
The Chefchaouen Medina was everything I had imagined and more. Every corner turned revealed a new shade of blue, from the softest pastel to the deepest indigo. The buildings seemed to glow in the afternoon sun, creating a surreal, dreamlike atmosphere. Lena would have loved this place; she has always appreciated the color blue, and this city is awash with it.


Discover the enchanting blue streets of Chefchaouen Medina, a historical gem in Morocco offering culture, crafts, and breathtaking views of the Rif Mountains.

The true beauty of Chefchaouen lies not just in its colors, but in the warmth of its people and the richness of its culture.

As we wandered, we stumbled upon Restaurant Bab Ssour for breakfast. It was a delightful introduction to Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant was nestled in the medina, and we were quickly seated. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast, which included a variety of local breads, olives, and a flavorful bean dish. The mint tea was, of course, a must-have, and it was the perfect start to our day. I made a mental note to try and recreate the bean dish back in Berlin; it was that good. I could see myself coming back for more of their vegan starters.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Bab Ssour in Chefchaouen - where every bite tells a story.
After breakfast, we made our way to the Kasbah, a historic fortress that stands proudly in the heart of Chefchaouen. Built in the 15th century, the Kasbah once served as a defense against Portuguese incursions. The structure itself is impressive, with sturdy walls and towers that offer panoramic views of the city. Inside, we explored the Ethnographic Museum, which offered a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the region. We learned about the traditions, costumes, and daily life of the people of Chefchaouen. The museum itself was inaugurated in 1985 and had a wide collection of cultural and artistic objects, like dresses, musical instruments and weapons.


Discover the captivating Kasbah of Chefchaouen, a historical landmark that showcases Morocco's rich heritage and stunning architectural beauty.
Next on our list was Ras El Ma, a natural spring located just outside the medina. The walk there was a pleasant escape from the bustling streets, leading us along a path that offered stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The spring itself was a refreshing oasis, with cool, clear water flowing from the mountains. Locals gathered here to wash clothes, collect water, and socialize, giving us a glimpse into their daily routines. The sound of the water was soothing, and the atmosphere was peaceful. I took some photos, trying to capture the essence of this tranquil spot. I was able to see a few small waterfalls, which added to the charm of the place.


Experience the serene beauty of Ras El Ma, a tranquil oasis in Chefchaouen, where nature and Moroccan culture blend seamlessly for a perfect escape.
For lunch, we decided to try Cafe Clock, a popular spot known for its fusion of Moroccan and international cuisine. The cafe was buzzing with activity, filled with both locals and tourists. I ordered the Clock Camel Burger, eager to try something unique. It was surprisingly delicious, with a blend of spices that gave it a distinctive flavor. My friends opted for some vegetarian options, and they were equally impressed. We sat on the terrace, enjoying the views of the medina while savoring our meal. I also had a refreshing glass of fresh mint lemonade, which was perfect for the warm weather. The Cafe Clock also has a bar, so we decided to have a drink there later in the evening.


Discover the rich culinary heritage of Morocco at Cafe Clock in Chefchaouen - where every meal tells a story.
After lunch, we spent some time exploring the local shops, browsing through the colorful displays of crafts and souvenirs. Chefchaouen is known for its textiles, pottery, and leather goods, and I was tempted to buy everything I saw. I ended up purchasing a beautiful handwoven rug, a piece of blue pottery, and a leather wallet. Bargaining was part of the fun, and I enjoyed interacting with the local vendors. I made sure to pick up some authentic Moroccan spices to bring back to Berlin; Lena loves to experiment with new flavors in her cooking.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Chez Hicham for dinner. This restaurant, recommended by a local, offered a cozy atmosphere and traditional Moroccan dishes. I ordered a tagine, a slow-cooked stew with meat, vegetables, and spices. It was rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. The service was attentive, and the staff made us feel welcome. We sat on the rooftop terrace, enjoying the views of the illuminated medina while savoring our meal. The blue details of the restaurant matched the city, and the arches in the Andalusian style gave it a wonderful style.


Discover Chefchaouen's culinary gem: Chez Hicham - A blend of traditional Moroccan flavors and warm hospitality.
After dinner, we returned to Cafe Clock for a drink. The atmosphere was lively, with music and laughter filling the air. We ordered some local beers and chatted with fellow travelers, sharing stories and experiences. It was a perfect way to end our first day in Chefchaouen, feeling connected to the world and grateful for the opportunity to be here.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder. Chefchaouen has exceeded all my expectations, and I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings. We plan to visit Plaza Uta el Hamman, take a tour with Blue Medina Tours, and see the Grand Mosque of Chefchaouen. I’m particularly looking forward to capturing more of the city's charm through my lens. I'm also excited to explore some more shops, like Blue. concept store, and maybe have a drink at Bar Oum Rabie.

Tomorrow, I'll be sure to pack the travel adapter I forgot; my phone is already running low on battery. And I’ll definitely need my portable charger to keep my camera going. For now, though, I'm content to soak in the memories of this magical day and dream of the blue streets that await me.

The sounds of the city are fading as I prepare for sleep, and I’m filled with anticipation for what tomorrow will bring. Chefchaouen has captured my heart, and I can't wait to explore more of its hidden gems.

Goodnight from the Blue Pearl.