You can hop on the plane that will take you to any cities in Morocco from Europe. In fact, there are many budget airlines operated from many major cities in Europe to Morocco. But why would you pick such an ordinary way of travel if you can make a journey more enjoyable and unique. If hopping a continent is in your future plan, you might want to consider sailing. While plane can take you there quicker, still the most adventurous way to visit Morocco from Europe is by sailing across the Gibraltar Strait. The Gibraltar Strait is where Atlantic Ocean meets Mediterranean Sea but the water do not transgress. It is a sight to behold to watch this natural phenomenon while you are on the boat/ferry. So how do you plan if your heart has set on the most adventurous way to visit Morocco from Europe?
This can be done easily if you stay in Southern Spain especially in the Costa Del Sol area, whether you rent a car to drive to the port or hire a shuttle. In fact you can take a car with you on the ferry but make sure you check your rental agreement. If you fly to Malaga and stay in Malaga, it will take you a couple hours to drive to the port on the good day. The port is located in Tarifa, the Spain southernmost town.
Port of Tarifa
Tarifa itself is a treat to any history buffs. There’s a caliphate period fortress that was built by Abd-Ar-rahman III, Caliph of Cordoba. This 10th century fortress is within walking distance from the port. Since then, the fortress has been renamed to Castillo de Guzman. With a minimal entrance fee, you can explore the entire fortress at your own pace. You can see the coast and the mountains of Morocco from its tower.
Now back at the port, you will board the ferry that will take you across The Gibraltar Strait to Tangier, Morocco. There are two ferry that serve the route to Tangier. You can buy the ticket at the counter. After your board the ferry, the immigration officers will check your passport and give you a stamp on your passport if you are eligible for free tourist Visa. There’s a long queue for that. During the ride on the ferry, I was completely mesmerized by The Gibraltar Strait. It is unreal to witness this natural phenomenon where Atlantic Ocean meets Mediterranean but they do not transgress.
After a short ferry ride, I arrived at Tangier. There’s a taxi waiting for you at Tangier Port if you haven’t arranged any transportation. Since I have arranged my transportation, the driver was waiting for me at the port. My first stop at Tangier was Kasbah, the central part of town. When you walk through Kasbah, you get a glimpse of a life in Morocco. Here, you can shop at traditional market. Keep in mind, there are many street sellers who will be chasing you around to offer their merchandise. While street sellers can be very persistent, just be firm and walk away if you don’t want to buy anything. Finally I ended up at a restaurant that serve traditional Moroccan food complete with the entertainers. I felt like I was a part of one thousand and one night story.
I have rode a camel before in the desert. But in Tangier, you can ride the camel on the beach. Yup you got it right. Strolling on the beach with the camel who looked very happy. Unlike the ride of a camel in the desert where they walk slowly, here the camel is actually running. So you have to hold on to the handle, unless you want to fall. It’s definitely a different experience.
While Tangier is not really a big city, it is very charming. From Arabic inspired architectures, delicious Moroccan food, beautiful mosques, a pristine beach and you can also explore the Hercules cave. So next time you are in Spain, make sure to cross the Gibraltar strait to Tangier, Morocco. For sure the most adventurous way to visit Morocco from Europe is a way to go.
