Chefchaouen Day Trip: The Blue City Of Morocco

 

Chefchaouen Day Trip: The Blue City of Morocco

Tucked away in the Rif Mountains of northern Morocco lies a hidden gem that feels like stepping into a dream: Chefchaouen, famously known as The Blue City. With its vibrant indigo-washed walls, laid-back atmosphere, and stunning natural backdrop, a day trip to Chefchaouen offers a completely different flavor from the hustle and bustle of cities like Fez or Marrakech. Whether you're a photographer, a culture lover, or a traveler seeking serenity, this magical city is worth the journey.

       

Why Is Chefchaouen Blue?

One of the most frequently asked questions is: Why is everything painted blue? There are several theories:

• The blue color was introduced by Jewish refugees in the 1930s, symbolizing the sky and heaven.

• Some believe it keeps mosquitoes away, as they dislike the clear water-like hue.

• Others say it simply helps keep the city cool and brings tranquility to its residents.

Visiting The Blue City: What To Expect

Once you reach Chefchaouen, the city is small enough to be walkable on foot.

If you come with a taxi or tour, they’ll drop you at the main gate, where you can easily walk into the medina of the blue city and start exploring.

If you come by bus and you have luggage, then you may want to hire a taxi to take you the rest of the way from the bus station to Bab El Ain, the main gate of the medina.

It’s only a 5 minute drive, but it’ll save you 20-30 minutes of uphill walking.

The main plaza of the city

Souvenir shop

🥘 Enjoy a Traditional Moroccan Lunch

After exploring the medina, grab a rooftop seat and enjoy a meal with a view. Local favorites include:

• Tagine (chicken, lamb, or vegetarian)

• Couscous

• Harira soup

• Fresh mint tea (a must!)

Try Cafe Clock or Bab Ssour for a mix of tradition and creativity. 

1 Day in Mongolia: A Perfect Day Trip Itinerary

 

How to Spend 1 Day in Mongolia: A Perfect Day Trip Itinerary

Mongolia is a land of vast open skies, ancient traditions, and untamed landscapes. With its nomadic culture and epic history as the heart of the Mongol Empire, it’s the kind of place that feels like stepping into another world. But what if you only have one day?

Whether you're passing through on a Trans-Siberian Railway stopover, on a short layover in Ulaanbaatar, or just tight on time — it’s absolutely possible to experience the best of Mongolia in a day. You just need the right plan.

8:00 AM – Depart Ulaanbaatar for Terelj National Park

Start your day early and leave the capital behind. A 1.5-hour drive will take you to Gorkhi-Terelj National Park, one of Mongolia’s most accessible and beautiful natural areas. You’ll see yaks grazing, endless green meadows, and the iconic rolling hills that define the Mongolian steppe.

This is the country’s most famous landmark, and it’s also the biggest equestrian (horse riding) statue in the world.

The stainless steel statue was finished in 2008, and it’s 40 meters tall (130+ feet). It sits on top of a visitor center that has a small museum, cafe, and gift shop.

First we went to the basement, where our guide talked about the history of the Mongol empire and showed us some artifacts, including a few weapons and a golden ‘paiza’ (diplomatic passport used by the Mongol officials).

       

🍽️ 12:30 PM – Lunch in a Ger Camp

By midday, you’ll be ready for a hearty Mongolian lunch. Many tourist ger camps offer traditional meals in a warm, rustic setting. Look for dishes like:

• Khuushuur – Deep-fried meat dumplings

• Tsuivan – Stir-fried noodles with meat and vegetables

• Buuz – Steamed dumplings often filled with mutton or beef

• Gorkhi Terelj National Park

Our next stop was Terelj National Park. It’s a 1 hour drive from the statue, or slightly farther from Ulaanbaatar. This time there was a bumpy gravel road part of the way there.

Here, we did a short hike to the top of Turtle Rock, which involved climbing some rocks and squeezing through a few crevices. It was fun and not too hard for anyone in the group.

As you might guess from the name, this giant rock got its name from the shape. Looking at it from the east side, it looks just like a turtle.

       

Turtle Rock

Terelj seemed like a nice parkbut I was disappointed by the widespread development insi, de the park.

Kelingking Beach Nusa Penida: T-Rex Cliff Hike In Bali

 

Hiking Trunyan Hill: Bali’s Most Underrated Trail

When most people think of hiking in Bali, Mount Batur and Mount Agung usually steal the spotlight. But hidden in the shadows of these giants lies a trail less traveled, a path that offers solitude, raw beauty, and a window into Bali’s ancient cultural roots — Trunyan Hill.

Why Hike Trunyan Hill?

1. Unspoiled Natural Beauty

Tucked on the eastern edge of Lake Batur, Trunyan Hill is a verdant, jungle-covered peak with panoramic views that rival any in the region. The trail takes you through dense forests, bamboo groves, and volcanic rock formations — often accompanied by misty mountain air and birdsong instead of the chatter of tour groups.

2. Cultural Significance

The hill gets its name from Trunyan Village, a Bali Aga (pre-Hindu) settlement known for its unique funerary customs. Unlike other Balinese communities, the Trunyan people do not cremate or bury their dead. Instead, bodies are laid out under a sacred tree called the Taru Menyan, which miraculously neutralizes any odor. Hiking this hill not only offers natural beauty but also a glimpse into Bali’s ancient past.

3. Crowd-Free Experience

Let’s face it — Bali’s most famous hiking spots can feel more like a pilgrimage than an adventure. But on Trunyan Hill, you’re likely to have the trail almost entirely to yourself. It’s an experience of true tranquility, making it ideal for photographers, meditation seekers, or anyone simply wanting a quiet escape into nature.

 

       

The Trail: What to Expect

• Starting Point: Most hikers begin in Trunyan Village, which is accessible by boat from the eastern shore of Lake Batur (Toya Bungkah or Kedisan).

• Duration: The hike typically takes 2–3 hours round trip, depending on your pace and photo stops.

• Difficulty: Moderate. The incline can be steep in some sections, and the trail is not always well-marked, so hiring a local guide is highly recommended.

• Views: From the summit, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Lake Batur, Mount Abang, and Mount Agung — especially magical at sunrise.

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Tips Before You Go

• Hire a Local Guide: Not only for navigation but also for insights into Trunyan’s rich cultural history.

• Start Early: Mornings offer cooler temperatures and better chances for clear views.

• Wear Proper Footwear: The trail can be slippery, especially after rain.

• Pack Water and Snacks: There are no vendors on the trail.

• Respect the Culture: If you visit the village or funeral site, dress modestly and be respectful. Photography at the sacred tree is discouraged.

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Getting There

To reach Trunyan Village:

• Drive to Kedisan Village near Lake Batur.

• From there, take a local boat (15–20 minutes) across the lake to Trunyan.

• Arrange the hike with a local guide upon arrival or book in advance with a local tour operator who supports community-based tourism.

Hiking Trunyan Hill: Bali’s Most Underrated Trail

Looking for the Best Hidden Hike in Bali?

If you're tired of battling crowds on Bali’s most popular trails like Mount Batur or Mount Agung, it's time to turn your compass toward Trunyan Hill — arguably the most underrated hike in Bali. This off-the-beaten-path trek offers raw natural beauty, cultural depth, and the kind of peace you can’t put a price on.

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Why Trunyan Hill Deserves a Spot on Your Bali Itinerary

🌿 1. Nature at Its Purest

Trunyan Hill is nestled on the eastern edge of Lake Batur, surrounded by lush jungle and volcanic terrain. As you ascend through moss-covered trees and rocky paths, the sound of rustling leaves replaces the usual tourist chatter. It’s one of Bali’s few hikes where you might not see another soul.

🛕 2. A Cultural Experience Like No Other

What sets this hike apart isn’t just the scenery — it’s the story. The trail begins near Trunyan Village, home to the Bali Aga people, who preserve pre-Hindu traditions dating back centuries.

Here, you’ll find the Taru Menyan tree, central to a unique burial tradition where the deceased are laid above ground. It’s a rare and sacred practice — deeply spiritual and entirely unique to this region.

🧘 3. Solitude and Spirituality

Unlike the sunrise stampede up Mount Batur, Trunyan Hill offers a solitary and serene experience. It’s perfect for mindful hiking, journaling, photography, or just soaking in the mystical atmosphere of Bali’s highlands.

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The Trunyan Hill Hiking Guide

Details	Info
Starting Point	Trunyan Village (via boat)
Hike Duration	2–3 hours round trip
Difficulty Level	Moderate (some steep, unmarked areas)
Views	Lake Batur, Mount Abang, Mount Agung
Recommended Guide	Local Trunyan resident

Note: Because the trail is not well marked, hiring a local guide is strongly recommended. You'll also be supporting the village economy directly.

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How to Get There

• Step 1: Drive to Kedisan Village on the shores of Lake Batur (approx. 2.5 hrs from Ubud or Canggu).

• Step 2: Hire a boat to Trunyan Village (15–20 minutes across the lake).

• Step 3: Meet your local guide and begin the hike!

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Pro Tips Before You Go

• 🕕 Go early to beat the heat and catch clear views.

• 🥾 Wear trail shoes – the jungle terrain can be slick.

• 💧 Bring water & snacks – no shops on the trail.

• 🙏 Respect local customs – especially when visiting sacred sites.

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Is Trunyan Hill Worth It?

Absolutely. Trunyan Hill isn’t just a hike — it’s an experience that fuses nature, history, and culture. If you're looking for a true off-the-beaten-path Bali adventure, this is it.

Whether you're a seasoned trekker or just someone craving peace away from Bali’s hotspots, Trunyan Hill delivers something few places can: authenticity.

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Looking for More Hidden Gems in Bali?

Check out our guides to:

• 🌋 Sunrise Hike on Mount Abang

• 🏞️ The Secret Waterfalls of Bangli

• 🏕️ Camping at Lake Tamblingan

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Final Thoughts

Hiking Trunyan Hill is a reminder that some of Bali’s greatest treasures lie far from the Instagram-famous trails. So lace up your boots, catch a boat across the lake, and explore the untold story of Trunyan.

You won't regret it.

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Have questions or want help organizing your Trunyan trek? Drop them in the comments or send us a message!

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Would you like a downloadable PDF hiking guide, map, or maybe an embedded Google Map route for this post? I can also help adapt it for Instagram captions or newsletters if you're promoting it.

Hiking Trunyan Hill: Bali’s Most Underrated Trail

 Trunyan Hill is an underrated hike in Bali with amazing views of Mount Abang and the Batur caldera. It looks like a Jurassic landscape!

This trail is located near the popular Mount Batur volcano, but it’s much less crowded and most foreign tourists don’t even know about it.

I did the hike recently and it was a wonderful experience, with plenty of challenge and some of the best scenery on the island.

Quick Stats*

• Distance: 5.8 kilometers (3.6 mi)
• Elevation Gain: 770 meters (2,526 ft)
• Max Altitude: 1,820 meters (5,971 ft)
• Duration: 4 – 6 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate / Hard  

*These are the roundtrip stats for the hike if you start from Trunyan village  

Trailhead: How To Get There

Trunyan Hill is located in the Kintamani area of northeast Bali.

It’s a 1 or 2 hour drive from touristy places like Ubud, Sanur, Canggu or Kuta in south Bali.

The whole drive is paved, but the last part requires a bit of care because the road is curvy, steep, and bumpy with potholes.

There are two possible starting locations for the hike:

• In Trunyan Village. This is the main trailhead and it’s the one I used. The trail starts from a narrow alley in the middle of Trunyan village, and it’s marked with a sign by the road. Map here.
• Above Trunyan Village. This is an alternate trailhead partway up the hill. If you start here, the trail is a bit easier because it shaves off about 2 kilometers of hiking and 200 meters of elevation gain, but it also takes a bit more driving to reach since it’s outside the caldera. Map here.

If you’re still feeling unsure of the route and want some help, here’s a guided sunrise trekking tour for Trunyan Hill that also includes a swim in the hot springs at Lake Batur afterwards.

A mountain; is a landform characterized by steep slopes significant height above its surrounding and a pointed top known as a peak or summit. mountain often occur in groups called ranges which can from larger mountain belts they are formed by geological processes such as tectonic plate collisions and erosion and play a vital role in earth's climate and water cycles providind water for rirver and supporting diverse ecosystems.

The mountains are good for the soul

I have never in my life claimed to be an adventurer or outdoors lover…until I started hiking in the mountains. With the lovely, lush green forests and foothills, the tantalizing teal lakes hidden away like a secret prize waiting to be found, and those stunning sky-high jagged peaks—it was love at first sight.
More than that, hiking in the mountains became an immediate passion because of the way it made me feel. I was able to just be the real me and connect with the version of myself that felt the most authentic and true.

Being surrounded by the mountains has a powerful effect on something deeper. It’s as if being amidst something greater than ourselves, changes our perspective and insight on life and the things that really matter. Somehow without trying, you are able to confront your demons, and re-evaluate problems, goals or desires. You are able to widen your perspective and reflect on ‘the big picture’.

Here’s some breathtaking pictures from this beautiful place which you can call home, especially if you are in love with the mountains

  SSSit quietly under a tree

As I sit outside under an old plane tree that I know very well, I get the sense that summer is slowly coming to a close.

A feeling accompanies this realisation.

A sinking, uncomfortable feeling that I know all too well. It is the same feeling that comes on Sunday evenings as another week in the office beckons. The same feeling that comes when the long awaited annual two week holiday is almost over. I remember the exact same feeling a few years ago when I was travelling – I was sitting in a small coffee shop in Bali when I realised that I had passed the half way point of my trip. It hit me hard then. The party would soon be over. The glass was now more empty than full.

This feeling has been with me in one way or another for most of my adult life. Now, as I sit in my favourite place under this old tree I can feel it again. The days are getting shorter and colder. Soon the trees will be bare. I can’t quite put my finger on it but it feels like the sands of time are running out. There is a hollow feeling in my chest.

For years, I would go to great lengths to avoid this feeling. I would busy myself with some mundane task. I would exercise, work, read, meet my friends, text someone… anyone, open a bottle of wine, watch another box set, go for a pint, even meditate or practice yoga. Anything to anesthetise myself and escape this feeling.

No matter what I did the feeling never really went away. It’s always there. I don’t think I’m alone. I think most of us spend our whole lives running from it in one way or another.

As I sit, I can feel the gentle breeze on my skin. I can hear the leaves softly stirring. The blue sky above invites a broader perspective. It’s not all about me. I’m just an insignificant speck in the bigger picture. I am a tiny part of a much bigger whole. The tree I am sitting under has been here for a long time and it will probably still be here long after I’m gone. I feel a softening, a release of tension. I know this place. I feel safe here. I don’t have to run anymore. I don’t have to escape or avoid this feeling. I can just sit here quietly and be with my experience exactly as it is.

What’s wrong?

What is this feeling?

What’s there at the root of it?…

Fear.

A subtle, gnawing fear which is always there in the background. We can spend our whole lives avoiding it. We rarely even acknowledge it.

The sands of time ARE running out. Summer always ends. In a few short months, the leaves overhead that are now green will fall to earth, brown and withered. Even this great plane tree which I am sitting under will someday soon die.

Go deeper.

What else is here?

I sit quietly for a while…

  

  I am sitting on my balcony. It is spring and there is a little bit of heat in the sun. The balcony looks out over a road. The road is usually busy… an endless stream of trucks and cars but right now there is no traffic. Everyone is self-isolating. The machine has stopped. It feels strange. Peaceful. I can hear different birds… the wren, the blackbird, the robin. A blue tit is flitting from one branch to the next. Life goes on. I could sit here all day.