Lost in the Alleys of Chefchaouen: A Solo Traveler’s Blue-Hued Awakening

Introduction: Why Morocco, and Why Solo?

In 2019, I boarded a one-way flight to Morocco with nothing but a 35L backpack, a pocket-sized notebook, and a craving for disconnection. Morocco had always been a destination that called out to me—not for the grandeur of Marrakesh or the vast Sahara Desert, but for a small, lesser-known town painted entirely in shades of blue: Chefchaouen.

As a female solo traveler, people often questioned my choice: “Is Morocco safe for solo travel?” That question alone made me more curious than cautious. What I found in Chefchaouen wasn’t just a picturesque town—it was a life lesson disguised in blue walls, winding alleys, and conversations with strangers who felt like old friends.

The Magic of Chefchaouen: Where Blue Meets the Soul

Nestled in the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen isn’t the easiest place to reach, but the journey itself is part of the charm. I took a 4-hour bus ride from Fez, winding through olive groves and mountain passes. The moment I stepped off the bus, I felt like I’d walked into a surreal painting—houses, doors, stairs, and even flower pots were painted in varying shades of cerulean, indigo, and sky blue.

No guidebook prepares you for the calm that Chefchaouen brings. Unlike the hustle of Casablanca or the sensory overload of Marrakesh, this town whispers rather than shouts. I checked into a cozy riad owned by a local Berber family. Over mint tea, Fatima, the matriarch, shared a story of how the tradition of painting the town blue was believed to ward off mosquitoes and evil spirits—and now, tourists.

Getting Lost, Intentionally

Armed with just my camera and a paper map, I let myself get lost in the maze-like medina. There was no rush, no bucket list—just the joy of discovering a blue door here, a friendly cat there, and the smell of fresh bread wafting from small, family-run bakeries.

At one point, I found myself in an alley so narrow I had to turn sideways to pass. An elderly man sitting on a stool smiled and said, “You’re not lost. You are just on a path you didn’t expect.” That sentence stuck with me, and I scribbled it in my notebook.

A Moment That Changed Me

On my third day, I hiked up to the Spanish Mosque at sunset. The trail was quiet, the air crisp. When I reached the top, the view took my breath away. The entire town was glowing in a golden hue, its blue walls reflecting the last light of the day.

I sat on a stone ledge, surrounded by a few locals and travelers, all of us watching in silence. It was the kind of moment that made me realize how travel strips away the noise, forcing you to confront your thoughts and your truths. Alone, but never lonely—that was the essence of this journey.

Why Chefchaouen Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List

If you're searching for the best solo travel destinations in Morocco, Chefchaouen should be at the top. Here’s why:

• 🌍 Authentic local experiences without heavy tourist crowds

• 📸 Instagram-worthy spots around every corner

• 🧘 Peaceful atmosphere perfect for introspection or creative work

• 🏞️ Scenic mountain hikes just outside the medina

• ☕ Warm hospitality from people who treat you like family

Travel Tips for Visiting Chefchaouen

How to get there:

• From Fez: 4-hour CTM or Supratours bus

• From Tangier: Approx. 3 hours by shared taxi or private transfer

Best time to visit:

• Spring (March-May) or Autumn (September-November) for mild weather and fewer crowds.

Stay:

• Look for locally-run riads near the medina for a more authentic stay.

Safety:

• Chefchaouen is considered one of the safest cities in Morocco, especially for solo travelers.

Final Thoughts: The Blue Town That Colored My Heart

Traveling solo to Chefchaouen was not just about exploring a new place—it was about rediscovering parts of myself that were buried under routine and noise. I arrived with questions and left with stories—real, raw, and unforgettable.

If you're dreaming of slow travel, meaningful conversations, and a destination that stays with you long after you've left, Chefchaouen is waiting. Sometimes, the best journeys begin where the map ends.

Did you enjoy this travel story?
Let me know in the comments or share your own experience of solo travel. And if Chefchaouen is on your list, tag your photos with #BluesOfChefchaouen so I can see your journey!