Chefchaouen Day Trip from Fes: Small Group, Blue Medina Walks

Summary

Blue alleys, mountain air & chamali tea in chefchaouen

You’ll wander Chefchaouen’s blue-painted medina with a local guide, taste Chamali tea unique to northern Morocco, pause by Ras el-Maa Waterfall, and enjoy mountain views on your way from Fes. Expect small moments — like sweet orange juice or laughter over mispronounced words — that linger long after you return.

What’s the experience like?

We were already winding through the Rif Mountains when someone in our group pointed out how the light kept shifting — one minute sharp and bright, then suddenly soft behind a cloud. Our driver, Youssef, pulled over at Dam Chahed so we could stretch our legs and grab orange juice from a Berber vendor (it tasted sweeter than I expected, maybe because of the mountain air). There was this quiet hum of conversation as people sipped coffee and took photos. I remember the smell of wet earth after last night’s rain — it clung to my shoes for hours.

Rolling into Chefchaouen felt like stepping into a watercolor painting that someone left out in the sun. The blue-painted walls were everywhere — not just one shade but layers: faded indigo, bright turquoise, even something close to lavender around doorways. Our guide Fatima told us about the spiritual reasons for all the blue (I tried to repeat her explanation later but honestly got it mixed up). She led us through narrow alleys where cats lounged on steps and old men nodded hello without really looking up. At Place Outa el Hammam, we paused for minty Chamali tea — apparently you only find it here in northern Morocco. I burned my tongue a little but didn’t mind.

I wandered off for a bit near Ras el-Maa Waterfall — you can hear water rushing before you see it. There was this cool mist hanging in the air and kids splashing their hands at the edge. I bought some olives from a woman who smiled but didn’t say much; her hands were stained purple from sorting them all morning. The walk back up to the Spanish Mosque viewpoint was steeper than I’d guessed (my legs still remind me), but seeing Chefchaouen spread out below — all those blues against green hills — made me stop talking for once.

On the drive back to Fes, everyone was quieter than before. Maybe tired or just letting it all settle. I kept thinking about that first sip of tea and how Fatima laughed when I tried to pronounce “Chamali.” Still not sure if I got it right.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Day trip from Fes to Chefchaouen

• Depart from Fes
• Stop at Dam Chahed for views and orange juice
• Pause for coffee and restroom break in Rif Mountains
• Explore Chefchaouen blue medina streets
• Visit Spanish Mosque viewpoint
• Tour Kasbah and museum
• Relax at Place Outa el Hammam
• Enjoy Chamali tea

Top questions

How long is the drive from Fes to Chefchaouen?

The round-trip transportation takes about 8 hours total between Fes and Chefchaouen.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, pickup and drop-off are included with your booking.

What is special about Chamali tea?

Chamali tea is a traditional drink found only in northern Morocco, usually served in Chefchaouen’s medina.

Are there restroom stops during the journey?

Yes, there are planned stops along the route where you can use restroom facilities.

Can infants join this tour?

Yes, specialized infant seats are available and suitable for all fitness levels.

Will there be time to explore Chefchaouen independently?

You’ll have free time to wander and explore parts of Chefchaouen on your own during the tour.

Is this tour suitable for people using public transport?

The meeting point is accessible by public transportation options nearby.

What are some main sights visited on this day trip?

You’ll visit Place Outa el Hammam, Ras el-Maa Waterfall, and stroll through Chefchaouen’s medina.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off in Fes by air-conditioned minibus or van with a professional driver. You’ll travel with a small group (8–17 people), stop for refreshments along the way in the Rif Mountains, enjoy guided walks through Chefchaouen’s medina with time for Chamali tea, plus access to restroom facilities during breaks before returning in the evening.