Journey Beyond Travel

Northern Exposure Chefchaouen Tour

This Morocco trip takes you in a northern circuit around some of Morocco's gems. And, this itinerary is adaptable to start in Tangier, Fez, or Casablanca as well. Additionally, we provide optional hiking exursions in the Rif Mountains surrounding Chefchaouen.

Day 1: Rabat
This, the first day of your Morocco trip, you'll be able to make your way to Rabat from Casablanca or Fez. The train is a great option and does not cost a lot of money. Once in Rabat, you will meet your JBT Tour leader and be able to explore the laid-back medina, the Chellah Gardens, and the Oudayas Kasbah. The Tour Hassan and the Mohammed V Mausoleum are two other popular sites.

Day 2: Asilah
After taking transport to Asilah, you'll be able to enjoy the sands near Paradise Beach, walk along the ramparts, and enjoy some of the best fish in Morocco. Asilah was recently highlighted in a New York Times travel article, and we know the secrets that make this town so appealing. The second day, enjoy swimming, walking, or exploring the town even more.

Day 3: Tangier
Today, you'll be taking transport to Tangier. This city has some worthwhile sights and can be seen in a day, which means we'll be spending only a few hours here. Cap Spartel (where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic) and Hercules' Cave are some of the highlights. Following, you'll stop by the ever-growing village of Oued Laou famous for its tranditional Rif Mountain Berbers who still wear classic clothing of the region. Following, it's a quick trip to the holy city of Chechaouen. The white and blue-washed colors of the medina make it the JBT Team's most favorite locale.

Day 4: Oued Laou or Wadi Laou
On the northern tip of Morocco is Oued Loau. What the Portuguese and Spanish have known for a long time, we have discovered. This small village is home to a hidden culture of Rif Berbers who are as welcoming as anyone in the entire country. The land surrounding Oued Laou drops off into the Mediterranean Sea and is lined with hidden beaches.

Day 5-6: Chefchaouen:
Chefchaouen is one of the most spectacular places the JBT frequents. This laid-back mountain town has gotten even more chill than before. Here, the Spanish culture is prevalent and if you speak a little Spanish, then you will get by easily. We offer day hiking around the town, and also offer extended trips that will take you through some of the Rif Mountains more rustic environs.

Day 7: Volubilis / Moulay Idriss / Meknes
The drive from Chefchaouen to Moulay Idriss near Volubilus is about three hours. Once in the region, we'll be able to explore the Roman Ruins and the sacred town that has much in common with Chefchaouen. Some day hiking can be enjoyed in the region, or a simple jaunt around the impressive Roman city site. Following, you will have some time to see where Morocco's first Arab conquerers settled, in the small, sacred town of Moulay Idriss. Then, its off to Meknes where you can enjoy an afternoon in the comfy riad, or explore some of this Imperial city's sights.

Day 8-9: Meknes / Fez
After visiting Meknes in the morning, you'll take a short drive to Fez, the protected UNESCO Medina. With over 9,000 alleysways making up this massive maze, you'll have fun exploring the sights with a local guide who we have been told is the best in the country. In Fez, we also have optional cooking class available for those who would like to learn about Moroccan cuisine. Fez is a magical, thriving medieval-like city that you will simply adore.

Day 10: Tour Ends in Fez Transportation is available to Casablanca or even Marrakesh. Trip extensions available.