Spanish Mosque Chefchaouen
Iconic viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of Chefchaouen's blue medina and the Rif Mountains, especially magical at sunset.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Spanish Mosque Chefchaouen
Best Time
Fewer crowds, magical light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of Chefchaouen's blue medina and the Rif Mountains, especially magical at sunset.
"Best viewpoint in Chefchaouen. It gets a bit crowded at sunset, but still an amazing experience."
🎯 Call it Bouzafer Mosque
Locals prefer 'Bouzafer Mosque' over 'Spanish Mosque'. Respect local naming conventions!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
The hike up involves stairs, so wear sturdy, comfortable footwear for the 20-25 min trek.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Summit of the hill
Breathtaking vistas of Chefchaouen's blue medina against the Rif Mountains.
Sunset Spectacle
Spanish Mosque viewpoint
Witness the sky transform into a mesmerizing palette of warm colors over the blue city.
Bouzafer Mosque History
The mosque itself
Learn about the mosque's construction in the 1920s and its unique local reception.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to the Spanish Mosque
The Hike to Bouzafer Mosque
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Call it Bouzafer Mosque
Locals prefer 'Bouzafer Mosque' over 'Spanish Mosque'. Respect local naming conventions!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
The hike up involves stairs, so wear sturdy, comfortable footwear for the 20-25 min trek.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated on the uphill walk. There's a cafe at the top, but it's good to be prepared.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
The light during sunset is incredible for capturing the blue city.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Call it Bouzafer Mosque
Locals prefer 'Bouzafer Mosque' over 'Spanish Mosque'. Respect local naming conventions!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed
The hike up involves stairs, so wear sturdy, comfortable footwear for the 20-25 min trek.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated on the uphill walk. There's a cafe at the top, but it's good to be prepared.
📸 Golden Hour Photography
The light during sunset is incredible for capturing the blue city.
🎶 Local Musicians
Sometimes local musicians play here, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Spanish Mosque (Bouzafer Mosque) for its absolutely stunning panoramic views of Chefchaouen, especially at sunset. The hike is considered worthwhile, and the historical context adds intrigue. Some note that it can get crowded and that the direct sunset might be partially blocked by mountains, but the overall vibe and scenery are highly praised.
"Don’t expect you can watch a real sunset as the mountains would block it. But the vibe is nice since so many people are misled by the internet. Many article even say that the Spanish mosque uphill is not in use which is also wrong."
Norman Choi
"Best viewpoint in Chefchaouen. It gets a bit crowded at sunset, but still an amazing experience. Definitely worth the short hike from Ras El Ma to go there."
Asad Chaudary
"The Spanish Mosque (also known as Jemaa Bouzafar) is a historic structure built by the Spanish in the 1920s during the Spanish occupation of northern Morocco.
The mosque was constructed by the colonisers in an attempt to introduce a more ‘Spanish’ version of Islamic architecture and religion during this colonial period. Interestingly, the mosque was never actually used for worship as it was rejected as too 'foreign' by locals.
Up at the mosque, visitors can experience what is perhaps the best view of the whole of Chefchaouen. There is a lovely hike up to the top which while steep is generally quite smooth. It takes about 20 - 25 minutes each way.
At the summit there are often goats grazing around and there is a café where one can buy teas and other snacks to enjoy whilst taking in the views."
Rohan Hearn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Spanish Mosque, also known as Bouzafer Mosque, is accessible via a hike from Ras El Ma or the medina. It takes about 20-25 minutes to walk up, involving some stairs. You can also take a CTM bus from Fez or Tangier to Chefchaouen.
Parking is generally available in Chefchaouen's main parking areas, but the mosque itself is reached by foot. The walk from the medina is the most common approach.
No, the Spanish Mosque is located on a hilltop and is only accessible by foot. The path is well-trodden and offers scenic views on the way up.
The most popular route is to walk from the medina, following signs towards Ras El Ma and then ascending the hill. It's a pleasant walk with rewarding views.
The hike is considered moderately easy, with some stairs. It's generally smooth and takes about 20-25 minutes. Most visitors find it manageable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit the Spanish Mosque or its viewpoint. It's a public space offering free access to the panoramic views.
The Spanish Mosque is generally accessible during daylight hours. While it's a historical site, it's not a functioning mosque with strict opening times for visitors.
Historically, the mosque was rejected by locals and never used for worship. While it's a landmark, it's not an active place of prayer for the community.
While the area is generally safe, it's best to visit during daylight or sunset hours for visibility and safety. The views are most spectacular during these times.
There are no specific restrictions for visitors, but it's important to be respectful of the historical site and the surrounding environment.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunset is incredibly popular for its dramatic lighting and panoramic views of the blue city. The golden hour before sunset also offers beautiful light.
You can capture stunning wide-angle shots of Chefchaouen, the Rif Mountains, and the mosque itself. The blue hues of the city are particularly photogenic.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules before flying a drone in the area to avoid any issues.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A tripod can be useful for sunset shots, but be mindful of crowds.
If local musicians are present, it's polite to ask for permission before taking their photos.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Drink
Yes, there is a cafe at the summit where you can buy teas and snacks to enjoy while taking in the views.
You can typically find traditional Moroccan mint tea and other refreshments at the cafe.
While there's a cafe at the mosque, most dining options are located back down in the medina of Chefchaouen.
Don't miss out on traditional Moroccan tagines and couscous. Mint tea is also a must-try!
While there isn't a designated picnic area, you can enjoy snacks purchased from the cafe. Bringing your own food is generally acceptable if you are respectful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing extra water and snacks, and perhaps making the hike a bit earlier in the day to avoid the peak sunset crowds. There's a cafe at the summit where you can enjoy a drink, which can be a nice reward for the little ones after the walk.
🚶 Budget Travelers
+1Instead of expensive tours, a simple walk up to the mosque offers one of the most iconic and memorable experiences in Chefchaouen.
📸 Photographers
+1 Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the landscape and a tripod for stable shots during low light conditions. Experiment with different compositions, framing the blue medina against the rugged Rif Mountains. The historical architecture of the mosque itself also offers interesting photographic opportunities.
Be prepared for crowds during peak sunset times, but the unique light and atmosphere are well worth navigating them. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Bouzafer Mosque
Despite its lack of religious use, the Bouzafer Mosque has become a beloved symbol of Chefchaouen. Its strategic location on a hilltop offers unparalleled panoramic views of the entire blue city and the surrounding Rif Mountains. This vantage point has made it a prime destination for tourists seeking the most iconic vistas of Chefchaouen.
+1Visitors often remark on the interesting history and the striking contrast between its intended purpose and its current role as a popular viewpoint. The story of its rejection by locals adds a fascinating narrative to its existence, making it more than just a picturesque spot.
Experiencing Sunset at the Spanish Mosque
+1 The panoramic view from the mosque's elevated position provides an unobstructed spectacle, making it a truly unforgettable experience. Many visitors describe the sunset as a highlight of their trip to Chefchaouen, often sharing that the views are even more stunning in person than in photos.
While the experience is magical, it's worth noting that the popularity of sunset viewing means the area can become quite crowded, especially on weekends. Some travelers suggest that while the mountains might partially obscure the direct sunset, the overall ambiance and the changing colors of the sky are still spectacular.
It's a perfect opportunity to relax, soak in the views, and capture some incredible photographs. The Hike and Amenities
Upon reaching the top, visitors will find a small cafe. This spot is perfect for grabbing a refreshing traditional Moroccan mint tea or a snack while you admire the expansive panorama of Chefchaouen.
While the mosque itself is not in active use, the area around it is well-kept and provides a fantastic viewpoint. The hike is considered a must-do for many visitors, offering a sense of accomplishment and an unparalleled perspective of the 'Blue Pearl.'
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit