From the most southern point of Spain (Tarifa), Morocco is only 14 kilometers away. On most days you can see the mountains at the other side of the Strait of Gibraltar very clearly, and at night you see the lights of the houses. Being so close to Spain, Morocco Tourism is very tempting. Especially because it’s not only another country, but even another continent.
Tangier Tourism for the first time is quite impressive. Not so much because of the beauty of the landscape (the skyline of Tanger is not very special), but more for the complete different culture and language. There are two different ideas about the origins of Tanger, the Berber and the Greek. According to the Berber legend, Tanger was founded following the return of a dove from the Arch of Noah with soil in its claws, indicating that there was a new world – Tanja in Berber language. The Greek version states that Tanger derives from the name “Tingi”, daughter of the giant Anthee. For the ancient Greek authors Tanger was “the most beautiful city of the known world, a region of gods where the men are the tallest and most beautiful that one can find.” If this is (still) true, you have to decide for yourself. Because of its geographical situation Tanger has always been the door to Africa. For a long time it used to be an important international meeting point, until it became stronger attached to Morocco.
Once you have arrived in Tangier, a bus drives you from the port to the old town. The old town is surprisingly similar to a lot of old towns in Andalucian cities. At the entrance there is an old arc, after which you find a labyrinth of small streets, small houses, ancient buildings, a castle and small typical shops. . Also included in the tour is a lunch in a traditional Moroccan restaurant. They serve traditional food and at the end you’ll get a traditional Moroccan tea.
After a stroll through the old town, you get a chance to have a look at the new town. This part of Tanger appears to be quite modern, with big buildings, broad streets and larger, more modern shops. A visit to the outskirts of Tanger is included as well. Big houses with big fences dominate the scene, so probably the rich are living here. You also get the opportunity to ride a camel, on payment of a few euros. The whole tour takes about 7 hours.
Another option is going alone, without a guide (in this case you do need a passport!). A one way ticket for the ferry costs 29 euro from Tarifa. The advantage is that you can decide yourself where to go, what to visit and where to eat and/or sleep. During the day-excursions there is some time to wander around yourself, but this is very limited.
