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Book hostels in Chefchaouen

The blue city. Cats, mountains, and the most Instagrammable walls in Africa.

Tucked into the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is the village painted a thousand shades of blue. It's small, walkable, cooler in summer than the desert cities, and has become a firm backpacker favourite thanks to its photogenic medina, friendly hostels, and easy access to hikes in the Talassemtane National Park.

Highlights

  • Wandering the blue medina at sunrise
  • Ras El Maa waterfall
  • Spanish Mosque viewpoint at sunset
  • Day hike to Akchour waterfalls
  • Local goat cheese (yes, really)

Best for

  • Photographers and Instagrammers
  • Hikers and nature lovers
  • Travellers escaping the summer heat
  • Short-break visitors (2–3 nights is enough)