An escape between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean
A few kilometres from the centre of Tangier, the landscape changes quickly. The city gradually gives way to hills, forests and the Atlantic coast.
Two sites draw the most attention from travellers: Cape Spartel and the Caves of Hercules. This excursion can be done in a few hours and is a natural complement to a visit of the medina.
Cape Spartel
Cape Spartel is west of Tangier. The site offers broad panoramas over the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding coasts. Its lighthouse is one of the symbols of the landscape.
For photographers, the end of the day is especially interesting when the light changes over the coast.
Where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean
Cape Spartel is often associated with the meeting of the Atlantic and Mediterranean seas. This geographic position partly explains the historical strategic importance of Tangier.
Today, it mostly adds to the beauty of the panoramas.
The Caves of Hercules
A few kilometres further on are the Caves of Hercules. These natural cavities open onto the ocean and are linked to the famous legend of Hercules.
The site is today one of the best-known attractions around Tangier and is among the places promoted by the Moroccan National Tourist Office. To learn more about their history and legends, read our article Caves of Hercules: between legend, ocean and local experiences.
→ Prepare your visit to the Caves of Hercules
The beach around the caves
The coast around the site also lets you discover wilder landscapes. The Moroccan National Tourist Office notes the presence of beaches and natural areas around the Caves of Hercules.
Depending on the season and the weather, this part of the coastline can be included in a day devoted to the coast.
Rmilate forest and Perdicaris park
To extend your discovery of nature around Tangier, the Rmilate forest offers trails and coastal panoramas. The area lets you combine walking, nature and coastal discovery. See its page: Perdicaris Palace and Rmilat park.
How much time should you allow?
For a classic excursion:
Tangier → Cape Spartel → Caves of Hercules → coast → back to Tangier
allow generally half a day to a full day depending on your pace and stops. For a fuller experience, add the Rmilate forest or some of the beaches.
How do you get to Cape Spartel?
Several options are possible:
- Taxi: practical for a direct trip, but it is advisable to agree clearly on the terms of the journey before leaving.
- Car: it lets you combine several places along the coast.
- Private driver: an interesting solution for a tailor-made excursion.
- Organised excursion: for travellers who prefer a simple package, an excursion combines several sites without organising the transfers separately.
→ See the Cape Spartel and Caves of Hercules excursion
→ Explore Tangier, Cape Spartel and the caves with a camel ride
Cape Spartel at sunset
For photography lovers, sunset can be a special moment. The light on the ocean, the cliffs and the lighthouse gives the site a different atmosphere.
Can you combine Cape Spartel and the medina?
Yes. An interesting formula for a full day can be:
Morning
Medina and Kasbah.Afternoon
Cape Spartel and the Caves of Hercules.End of the day
Return along the coast.
This plan lets you discover both the heritage and the natural landscapes of Tangier. To prepare the medina part, read our guide What to visit in Tangier?.
Cape Spartel and the Caves of Hercules: an easy excursion from Tangier
One of the advantages of this excursion is its proximity to the city. You do not need to spend several days to discover these sites: they can easily be added to a stay of two or three days.
To discover the whole destination, also see our guide:
→ Tangier: a complete guide to the pearl of northern Morocco
