Fes to Chefchaouen: How to Travel Between Them
Omar Benali · 9 min · Itineraries
Fes to Chefchaouen is a short but scenic hop — here are the best ways to do it.
Fes and Chefchaouen are two of northern Morocco's unmissable stops, and most travellers visit them back to back. The journey between them is short — under four hours by road — but scenic, climbing through the Rif Mountains. Here is how to do it, with the trade-offs of each option.
Private Transfer (Recommended)
A private transfer or driver-guide is the most comfortable and flexible way to make the trip. Door-to-door from your Fes riad to your Chefchaouen riad in about 3.5 hours, with stops for photos and a coffee along the way. For a group of two or more the per-person cost is comparable to the bus, and you travel on your own schedule. This is the option we arrange most often.
CTM Bus (Best Budget Option)
CTM runs a comfortable, air-conditioned coach service from Fes to Chefchaouen, taking roughly 4–5 hours. It is reliable, affordable and the standard choice for solo and budget travellers. Book a day or two ahead in high season — seats sell out. The bus drops you at the Chefchaouen town entrance, a short taxi ride from the medina.
Grand Taxi
Shared grand taxis run the route but are less comfortable for the full mountain journey — cramped seating and no air conditioning. They are cheap and depart when full. Best for adventurous budget travellers; most visitors prefer the CTM bus for a similar price and more comfort.
As a Tour (Best for First-Timers)
The most rewarding way to combine the two is a 2-day tour from Fes: a guided Fes medina day, private transfer to Chefchaouen, an overnight in a riad inside the blue medina, and a full day to wander before continuing onward. The overnight is key — Chefchaouen is at its best in the early morning before the day-trippers arrive.
Where to Go Next
From Chefchaouen, the most common onward moves are Tangier (2 hours north, for ferries to Spain or flights), Casablanca (for flights), or back south to Fes and beyond. A private transfer can pick up in Chefchaouen and drop you anywhere — tell us your full route via the plan-my-trip form and we will wire it together.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Fes from Chefchaouen?
About 200 km, a 3.5 to 4-hour drive by private transfer or car. By bus it takes roughly 4–5 hours including stops. The route crosses the Rif Mountains and is scenic throughout.
What is the best way to get from Fes to Chefchaouen?
A private transfer is the most comfortable and flexible option, especially for groups. CTM bus is the best budget option — comfortable, air-conditioned and reliable. A grand taxi is possible but less comfortable for the full mountain route.
Is there a train from Fes to Chefchaouen?
No. Chefchaouen has no train station. The train network does not reach the Rif. You must travel by road — private transfer, bus or grand taxi.
How many days should I spend in Chefchaouen?
Two days is ideal: one full day for the blue medina and the Spanish Mosque sunset, and one for an optional Akchour waterfalls half-trip or simply wandering. One day is enough if you are short on time.
Can I visit Chefchaouen on a tour from Fes?
Yes. We offer Chefchaouen tours that can be run as a day trip or, better, as a 2-day trip with an overnight in a riad inside the blue medina. A 2-day version lets you see the town in the quiet early morning light, which is the whole point.
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