Chefchaouen is a small very unique city the north of Morocco. Majority of the buildings and wall in Kasbah area painted blue, which makes this place very attractive to tourists. This post contains a collection Chefchaouen travelling tips.
Read more on how to spend One day in Blue city in my 1 Day in Chefchaouen post.
Bring cash.
Always carry cash when travelling in Morocco. I’ve tried using my Visa credit card in 3 shops and one restaurants. None of those places accepted the cards.
No cars allowed in Kasbah area.
Kasbah streets are very narrow. While I’ve seen several cars delivering goods to the shops, private cars are not allowed to enter Kasbah area. If you are staying Riad in Kasbah, they can come and help you with your luggage.
Cell service in Kasbah.
There is almost no cell service in Kasbah area. Use the time in kasbah to embrace the city, enjoy the beautiful blue walls and streets and as a digital detox time.
Use right hand.
Left hand considered unclean, so use right hand to greet and eat.
Dress moderately.
This primarily applies to females. So, girls, bring couple of scarfs to cover your shoulders and knees. While you will see a variety of styles when traveling in the country, Moroccan women dress moderately. I suggest to carry scarf with you all the time just in case.
Toilets in Chefchaouen.
The only public toilet in Chechaouen located outside of Kasbah close to North gate area. There was no toilet paper and no running water. So, plan to carry toilet paper, wipes and hand sanitizer. Another public toilet in Kasbah at the Mosque, was closed when we were in town.
Stay in Riad in Kasbah area.
Plan to stay in traditional Riad in Kasbah area for more authentic experience. Many Riads serve breakfast and tea, they also have suggestions for local restaurants, shops as well as hammam and massage services discounts.
Taking pictures.
Always ask before taking pic (especially peacock and chameleons). Two guys at Kasbah gates were super protective of their two peacock and did even allow us to look at them after I took a picture without asking. If you want to take a picture ask how much it cost. The price usually do not exceed 10DH, bargain if asked to pay more.
Getting lost.
Kabash is small and easy to navigate, there is only one main street that goes through the entire Kasbah north to south. If you get lost, stop and find an open plaza, located the mosque and start walking toward mosque direction.
Bargain.
When shopping in Chefchaouen, always bargain. The general idea is to offer 20-30% less than asking price to start bargaining the process. The sellers will offer you their price. At the end both parities will be happy with the outcome. When bargaining, be respectful and reasonable.
Buying fresh squeezed juice.
Juice is usually served in glasses that are just rinsed and reused. You can ask for plastic cup when buying fresh squeezed juice or smoothie.
Enjoy Chefchaouen!
