Ras El Maa Chefchaouen
A refreshing natural spring and waterfall on the edge of Chefchaouen's blue Medina, offering a glimpse into local life and stunning natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Ras El Maa Chefchaouen
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A refreshing natural spring and waterfall on the edge of Chefchaouen's blue Medina, offering a glimpse into local life and stunning natural beauty.
"It makes you see the beauty of nature and admire God's creations. When in Chefchaouen, it is a must visit!"
📸 Capture the Blue Hues
The blue city is a photographer's paradise! Explore narrow alleys for unique shots.
💧 Wading at the Falls
If you want to get close to the falls, wear clothes you don't mind getting wet.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ras El Maa Waterfall
Northeastern edge of the Medina
A refreshing natural spring and waterfall where locals gather, offering a glimpse into daily life and stunning natural beauty.
The Blue Medina
Chefchaouen Old City
Wander through the iconic blue-washed streets, a photographer's dream and a truly immersive cultural experience.
Local Orange Juice Stands
Near Ras El Maa
Enjoy freshly squeezed orange juice, often chilled in the cool waters of the Ras El Maa stream.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Blue: Timing is Key
Respect Local Life at Ras El Maa
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Blue Hues
The blue city is a photographer's paradise! Explore narrow alleys for unique shots. +1
💧 Wading at the Falls
If you want to get close to the falls, wear clothes you don't mind getting wet.
🍊 Refresh with Local Juice
Enjoy freshly squeezed orange juice, often chilled in the natural spring water.
🚶♀️ Respect Local Customs
Ras El Maa is a working area for locals. Be mindful and respectful of their activities.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Blue Hues
The blue city is a photographer's paradise! Explore narrow alleys for unique shots. +1
💧 Wading at the Falls
If you want to get close to the falls, wear clothes you don't mind getting wet.
🍊 Refresh with Local Juice
Enjoy freshly squeezed orange juice, often chilled in the natural spring water.
🚶♀️ Respect Local Customs
Ras El Maa is a working area for locals. Be mindful and respectful of their activities.
🏨 Stay Near the Medina
Consider staying in a Riad within the Medina for an authentic experience. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ras El Maa is praised for its natural beauty and the refreshing experience of the waterfall, offering a glimpse into local life. Visitors enjoy the scenic walk and the opportunity to try local orange juice. However, some find it can be very busy, especially in summer, with long waits at food stalls and concerns about the cleanliness of certain areas.
"Nice hike/ walk to "Ras el Maa"
It makes you see the beauty of nature and admire God's creations. When in Chefchaouen, it is a must visit!"
Wanderfly Travel
"Ras el Ma offers a delightful walking experience, particularly on a sunny day when the weather is just right. The trail meanders through beautiful landscapes, providing a peaceful atmosphere that enhances the enjoyment of the hike. Along the way, you’ll find several juice stations, perfect for quenching your thirst and refreshing yourself with local flavors as you navigate the path.
At the start of the trail, you'll notice a lively presence of dogs, adding a charming and playful element to the journey. As you continue, these furry companions gradually become less frequent, allowing you to immerse yourself in the serene environment.
As you ascend, the anticipation builds, culminating in a breathtaking view from the top. The sight of the entire blue city sprawled out below is nothing short of mesmerizing, with its iconic blue-painted buildings contrasting beautifully against the surrounding landscape. This panoramic vista captures the essence of the region, making the trek well worth it. Whether you’re seeking solitude or a moment to connect with nature, Ras el Ma provides a rewarding experience that combines the thrill of exploration with stunning visual rewards."
F K
"Very busy in the summer, I would advise to not eat at the food places around here because the waiting time is almost 40 minutes once you are seated, and in regards to the fruit ask that they give you the latest cup and not one that’s been ready made sitting in the sun for half an hour.
Otherwise the water is quite fun, you get to dress up in traditional jebliya attire for a small donation to wards the lovely ladies at the fall, don’t wear long trousers or skirts if you don’t want to get your clothes wet when waddling through."
Mimi Fifi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Tangier, you can take a grand taxi to Chefchaouen. The journey takes approximately 2-3 hours. Once in Chefchaouen, Ras El Maa is located on the northeastern edge of the Medina, easily accessible by foot.
Chefchaouen is best explored on foot. The Medina is a pedestrian-only zone. For longer distances, grand taxis are available.
Parking is generally not available within the Medina. You'll need to park outside the old city and walk.
While there isn't direct public transport to Ras El Maa itself, buses and grand taxis will get you to Chefchaouen. From there, it's a walk into the Medina.
The travel time from Tetouan to Chefchaouen by grand taxi is approximately 1 hour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Ras El Maa is a natural spring and waterfall area that is freely accessible to the public.
Ras El Maa is accessible at all hours, though visiting during daylight is recommended for safety and better views.
There is no entrance fee to enter the city of Chefchaouen or its Medina.
While not specifically for Ras El Maa, many local guides offer tours of Chefchaouen's Medina, which often include a stop at the waterfall.
Swimming is generally not advised at Ras El Maa due to the area being used for washing and its natural state.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for capturing the blue hues of Chefchaouen. +1
Be respectful when photographing locals, especially women washing clothes. Always ask for permission if unsure.
The entire blue Medina is incredibly photogenic, with countless narrow alleys, doorways, and staircases. Ras El Maa waterfall itself is also a beautiful subject.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the narrow streets, while a standard zoom lens is versatile. A good phone camera is also sufficient for most shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are juice stations and some eateries near Ras El Maa. However, reviews suggest long waiting times and to be cautious about food freshness.
Don't miss out on tagine, couscous, and pastilla. Freshly squeezed orange juice is also a must-try.
Yes, the Medina offers numerous restaurants serving traditional Moroccan cuisine. Explore the smaller alleys for hidden gems.
Prices vary, but you can find affordable meals in local eateries. Expect to pay more in tourist-focused restaurants.
Many Moroccan dishes can be made vegetarian or vegan. Look for vegetable tagines and couscous.
🎫 🏨 Accommodation
Staying in a Riad within the Medina offers an authentic experience. Consider areas near Ras El Maa for proximity to nature.
Hotel Ras El Maa is a notable option. Other Riads and guesthouses are scattered throughout the Medina.
Yes, hostels and budget guesthouses are available, with some dorm beds starting around 9€.
Riads typically offer traditional Moroccan decor, courtyards, and often rooftop terraces with city views.
It's highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred accommodation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Blue City
Beyond its visual appeal, Chefchaouen offers a more relaxed pace of life compared to Morocco's larger imperial cities. The mountain setting contributes to a tranquil ambiance, inviting visitors to slow down and soak in the surroundings. While the Medina can get busy, especially during peak tourist seasons, finding quiet corners is still possible, allowing for moments of peaceful contemplation amidst the blue.
Ras El Maa: Nature Meets Local Life
+1 The area is a hub of local activity, where women traditionally gather to wash clothes in the cool, clear water. +1 This practice offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives and traditions of the local community, a stark contrast to the more curated tourist experiences found elsewhere. The sound of the cascading water and the lush greenery surrounding Ras El Maa create a refreshing natural oasis.
+1 Local vendors often set up stalls nearby, selling freshly squeezed orange juice, with some even chilling their fruits in the stream itself. Accommodation in Chefchaouen
Some Riads, like Dar Echchaouen, are located conveniently near Ras El Maa, offering a blend of natural beauty and comfortable lodging. For budget-conscious travelers, Chefchaouen has several hostels and guesthouses. Prices for dorm beds can be as low as 9€ per night, making it an accessible destination for backpackers.
Social
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