From Spain to Morocco: How to cross the Strait of Gibraltar by boat?
© Maxime Boudrias
Posted by Maxime Boudrias
4 min read
Updated: April 3, 2023
Change continent in the same day from Europe to North Africa!
Have you considered extending your trip in Spain to explore Morocco?
Whether it's just a quick visit to Tangier or a deeper discovery of the Maghreb countries, both options are not only convenient, but also budget-friendly!
From Tarifa (Spain) to Tangier (Morocco)
To cross by ferry from Tarifa to Tangier, the simplest and most direct way is to go to the Port of Tarifa (Puerto de Tarifa) and buy your tickets in person.
You will have plenty of options, with dozens of kiosks and enthusiastic vendors ready to sell you their arm in exchange for passage, armed with greetings in multiple languages such as "Hola! Mi amigo! My friend! Hé mon ami!". You will find what you need, I guarantee it!
Duration and Price of the Tarifa to Tangier Ferry
The cost of a one-way ticket is around 38€, and the journey takes one hour.
However, there are several other options to organize your crossing, depending on your preferences and mode of transportation.
Book your ferry from Spain to Morocco online
To book your crossing from Tarifa to Tangier, you can visit the official website of the FRS maritime company to check prices and schedules, and then select your preferred dates and route.
Traversing from Spain to Morocco on foot (pedestrian passenger)
If you plan on crossing without a vehicle, the route between Tarifa and Tangier Ville is the most recommended. FRS is the only maritime company that offers round-trip connections between these two ports. Typically, there are up to 5 departures per day (morning, midday, and afternoon).
It's very important to note that if you choose to cross to Tanger Med (not to be confused with Tangier Ville) as a pedestrian passenger, you risk ending up in the middle of nowhere, which is not ideal.
Crossing from Spain to Morocco by car
If you're traveling by car, you have more options to cross by ferry. You can choose to depart from Gibraltar or Tarifa in Spain and arrive at either Tanger Ville (Tangier) or Tanger Med.
Enjoy your trip by visiting Gibraltar
The territory of Gibraltar covers less than 7 km² and can be entirely explored on foot. Take a walk through the nature reserve up to the Rock of Gibraltar, which is home to over 600 plant species. Its unique panorama linking two continents, three countries, and the Mediterranean Sea is a must-see.
What is also very special about this place is that you will have the chance to encounter the only population of wild monkeys in continental Europe. Their true name is the Barbary macaques, and they are originally from Morocco.
Where is Gibraltar?
Located on the Spanish coast in Andalusia, this small coastal territory is very close to Tarifa on the strait that separates Spain from Morocco in North Africa. If you look at a map of southern Spain, you can easily spot a small dot along the Mediterranean Sea that corresponds to its location.
What to do at the Gibraltar Nature Reserve?
The entrance fee is around €18 for adults, €10 for children aged 5-12 years old, and free for children under 5. There's no need to exchange currency, as all tourist sites in Gibraltar accept euros.
- Explore St. Michael's Cave, filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites.
- Discover the history of the city during the Great Siege of Gibraltar (1779-1783) through an exhibition held in the historic Willis's Magazine buildings, which were built in the 18th century to store ammunition.
- Hike the Mediterranean Steps, also known as the "Thousand Steps." They extend 1400 meters along the side of the Upper Rock and offer spectacular views of the region.
- Cross the Windsor Suspension Bridge, which spans impressive gorges, if you enjoy thrills.
- Explore the Great Siege Tunnels, which were carved into the rock to bombard the Spanish during the siege. They offer an impressive view of the nearby Spanish border town and airport.
How to get to Gibraltar from Tarifa without a car?
Travel to La Línea de la Concepción (40 km from Tarifa), a Spanish town bordering the British territory of Gibraltar. Then, from the train station La Línea (Estación La Línea), walk about 10 minutes south to Gibraltar.
- Bus: Recommended. From the Centro Salud station, ask for La Línea de la Concepción. The journey takes about 1 hour and a half and costs no more than 5 euros. There are buses to and from morning to night and it will take you directly to the La Línea station.
- Carpooling: Use Blablacar and book a ride for La Línea de la Concepción.
- Taxi: Ask for a taxi on the street or use the services of Cabify (popular in Spain) and Uber, but it may cost you quite a lot.
What to do in Tangier?
© Benson Kua, CC BY-SA 2.0
You will find the Tangier's central market, a host of food shops, butchers, vegetables and the fish market. The old town of Tangier, with its original Arab medina, has not lost its charm. Visitors can still see its walls and the towers of the ancient Portuguese fortification.
- Kasbah: A fortified city with winding roads that lead from one neighborhood to another. At the end, there is a magnificent view that overlooks the port and the Spanish coast.
- The Hercules Caves, located 14 km from Tangier, are a must-see destination for enjoying breathtaking views of the Strait of Gibraltar. Signs indicate that the caves were occupied during Neolithic times, over 5000 years ago.
Where to eat and sleep in Tangier?
- Tanja Lucia Hostel: A welcoming hostel popular with travelers from all over the world. This is the perfect place to drop off your luggage and get information.
- Restaurant Bachir: A place to eat with the locals, it's here! Real tasty Moroccan food at ridiculously low prices.
Morocco at your fingertips
After exploring Tangier, you can hop on a high-speed train that takes you directly to Casablanca. From there, a plethora of options await you, including discovering the bustling city of Marrakech, embarking on a journey to the Sahara Desert in Merzouga, or unwinding on the serene beaches of Essaouira. The possibilities are endless, making this trip an unforgettable experience.
Bonus videos
Monkey eating nuts like a human in Gibraltar
The singing mosques of Tangier
FAQs
What documents are needed to travel to Morocco by car via a ferry from Spain?
Traveling by ferry from Spain to Morocco with your car is straightforward and convenient. It grants you the freedom to explore Morocco as soon as you arrive. Here's a list of essential items you need to prepare for your journey:
- The vehicle registration document (gray card), proving your right to take it to Morocco.
- If you are not the owner of the car, an official declaration from the owner is required, stating their consent for you to borrow the vehicle. This declaration must be legalized.
- For a rental car, present a rental agreement that clearly states your permission to take the vehicle out of the country, especially to Morocco.
- It is essential to have valid car insurance in Morocco, such as an international insurance certificate or a green card.
- Don't forget the vehicle's technical sheet, which may be required.
Regarding the entry procedures to Morocco with a car by ferry, no tax is imposed on tourist vehicles. However, it is necessary to fill out the AT form upon arrival.
I would like to go from Spain to Morocco. Is it safe to cross in a rented car?
In my experience, driving in Morocco is generally safe as long as you follow some basic safety measures. The roads leading to destinations such as Chefchaouen, Casablanca, and Marrakech are well-maintained. I have personally traveled extensively through northern Morocco by rental car, as well as from Marrakech to Merzouga in the Sahara!
Before departing, check with your rental company if you can take the car to Morocco. Also, make sure you have all necessary documents, including the rental contract and valid insurance.
In Western Europe, like in Spain, most car rental companies won't let you take their cars to Morocco, but there are some exceptions. Taking a car across the Strait of Gibraltar can get pricey and requires a lot of paperwork. I think it's easier to just cross as a pedestrian and rent a car in Morocco for your trip.
Once there, to make navigation easier, make sure you have constant access to the Internet. You can use your current plan or purchase a local SIM card in Morocco at an affordable price.
In summary, there's no need to worry if you stick to highways and main roads, as thousands of foreigners travel them every year. Avoid driving at night and park your vehicle in safe places, like your hotel's parking lot or a secured parking area. Have a great trip!
The best ways to travel around Spain for a backpacker?
Your best low-cost option for long-distance travel in Spain is to take buses with Flixbus. You can download their mobile application on your phone, and their website contains detailed information that will guide you from the first to the last step. The buses are comfortable, with plenty of legroom, and the prices are unbeatable.
Carpooling is also an excellent way to get around Spain. In addition to being environmentally friendly, it will allow you to meet local people. Although carpooling may be limited in some regions, it's still worth checking out the BlaBlaCar website. This carpooling service is safe and frequently used in Western Europe.
Have a great trip and be sure to make the most of your visit to Spain. Don't miss out on the best attractions to see in Barcelona!
