Overview
Tangier is the gateway to Europe and the fusion of culture will inspire you!
Tangier is Africa’s Gateway to Europe. Just a stone’s throw across the Strait of Gibraltar from Spain, Tangier is a crossroads of cultures. Filled with incredible ocean views and green spaces, this Andalusian city has an entirely unique ambiance, and been an inspiration for artists and thinkers for centuries.
Morocco was the first nation to formally recognize the United States as an independent country, and both nations have shared peace and friendship ever since. We'll visit the American Legation, the first US property located outside of the United States, and it symbolizes the close relationship between the nations. The American Legation is a beautiful Moorish-style building, designated a US National Historic Landmark, which houses an interesting museum detailing Moroccan-American diplomatic relations, extensive library, and cultural center.
You’ll also visit the historical centers of town, the seaside Kasbah - strategic tall walled fort, and labyrinth like medina - which simply means the Old City. While exploring these areas, keep your eyes out for beautiful Moroccan leather and handicrafts, as well as interesting antiques that resulted from Tangier’s international and eclectic history.
From the kasbah, continue on to enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal: tasty tagines, freshly baked bread, Moroccan salad and of course some sweet almond cookies. After lunch, relax at the terraced ocean front Cafe Hafa. Sip on sweet Moroccan mint tea while sitting at the same simple mosaic tables that hosted the likes of Jimi Hendrix, inspired the Beatles, and a favorite locale for many notable authors. Cafe Hafa is a Tangier must, absolutely not to be missed!
Beyond Tangier is the coast - Cap Spartel and the Cave of Hercules. The Cap Spartel is the point of Africa closest to Europe. Delight in panoramic views, fresh air, and the ideal photo opportunity. Stroll up to the iconic lighthouse, or simply stretch your legs and breath in the Afro-European breeze. Further down from the Cap Spartel, visit the Cave of Hercules. The Cave is so named because it is said to have played a role in the 11th Labor of Hercules. Mythology has it the cave sheltered Hercules en route to collect golden apples from the Garden of Hesperides. In addition to the Greek myth, the cave has eye-like markings along the walls said to have been created by the Phoenicians, and a sea opening the shape of the continent of Africa. It is also said that Barbary Macaques first arrived to the Strait of Gibraltar via the cave - although this we cannot confirm nor deny!
Once you’ve completed your visit of these coastal sites, return to your ship having had an entirely unique Andalusian-Moroccan introduction, and likely, a burning desire to return and explore further!
- Lunch as well as mint tea are included in the tour cost. Additional food and beverages are not included.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 09:00 AM, duration: 8 hours
