From Seville: 2-Day Trip to Tangier

Traveling from Seville to Tangier offers a chance to step outside Spain and into the cultural tapestry of Morocco. While the idea of crossing the Strait of Gibraltar to explore a city that merges African and European influences sounds fantastic, the reality can be a mixed bag. We’ve looked into the details so you can weigh whether this tour matches your travel style.

What we like about this experience is the opportunity to see a city so visibly straddling two continents and enjoy a guided walk through its vibrant medina, along with the chance for a fun camel ride. Plus, the ferry crossing itself adds a bit of adventure. On the flip side, some travelers have found the organization a bit inconsistent, and the hotel quality not quite what you’d expect from a 4-star.

This tour might suit those who value cultural exposure and don’t mind a busy schedule, but it might not be the best fit if you’re seeking a seamless, luxury experience or travel with very young children. If you’re curious about the blend of African and European cultures, and don’t mind some logistical hiccups, this adventure can be worth considering.

Key Points

• Cultural Mix: Tangier offers a unique blend of African and European influences, visible in its architecture, markets, and atmosphere.
• Guided Exploration: A local guide helps you navigate the medina and highlights the city’s most interesting spots.
• Ferry Ride: The crossing of the Strait of Gibraltar adds an element of travel adventure, though it can be delayed.
• Hotel Quality: The included accommodation is a 4-star rural hotel, but reviews suggest it may fall short of expectations.
• Timing and Organization: Starting early, typically around 7:15 am, and managing a packed schedule can be challenging if delays occur.
• Cost and Value: At around $351 per person, it covers transportation, guide, and one meal, but some reviews question whether the overnight stay adds value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour provides a round-trip transfer and ferry crossings, along with a local professional guide once in Tangier, which is a big plus. The hotel stay is part of the package, though it has received mixed reviews regarding quality and amenities, with some guests describing it as noisy and smoky. The tour includes lunch on the first day, but extra food and drinks are on you, and the camel ride is optional for a small fee.

Keep in mind, you’ll need your passport or ID card to cross the border, and full names and passport numbers are required when booking ferry tickets. The tour is offered in several languages, which broadens accessibility.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Departure & Ferry Crossing

Your day begins early, around 7:15 am, at a designated meeting point in Seville. From there, you’ll head to Tarifa, a town famous for its windsurfing and lively vibe, where you’ll board a ferry to Tangier. The ferry ride lasts about two hours and is often one of the most memorable parts of the trip—if the timing works out smoothly. Some reviews mention delays, so it’s smart to be prepared for possible waiting.

Upon Arrival in Tangier

Once in Tangier, your local guide will take you through the medina, which is the historic heart of the city. Expect narrow alleys, bustling markets, and plenty of chances to soak in the African ambiance. You’ll visit some of the most noteworthy spots, with a focus on the medina’s unique character.

The tour emphasizes the cultural fusion, and your guide’s insights can help you understand both the history and day-to-day life in Tangier. Many travelers note the guide’s helpfulness and knowledge—Rashid, in particular, gets praise for his assistance.

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The Bay of Tangier and the Views

One of the highlights is the view of the magnificent bay, where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean. It’s a beautiful backdrop that makes for great photos and memorable scenery. You might find yourself spending some quiet moments just gazing at the water and contemplating the crossing to Africa.

Camel Ride & Additional Activities

A camel ride is available for a small additional fee. It’s a fun, touristy activity, especially if you’re looking for a bit of Moroccan flair. While not included in the base price, it’s a nice touch if you want a classic experience.

Return to Seville

After several hours exploring, you’ll return to the ferry, cross back to Tarifa, and then head back to Seville. The entire day is packed, and timing can be tight, especially if delays happen at any point.

The Overnight Hotel Stay

The package often includes an overnight in a rural hotel. According to reviews, this part can be a weak link. Some guests found the hotel noisy, smoky, and not matching the four-star standard advertised. It appears that the hotel might be more rustic than luxurious, making it less ideal for those seeking comfort after a busy day.

Honest Insights from Fellow Travelers

The only one-star review expresses clear frustration: “Started with leaving two hours late, request front seat due to motion sickness, zero assistance! Arrived in Morocco late, no lunch, no food for hours. The hotel was not 4-star, beds were awful, cigarette smoke everywhere in hotel, noisy outside all night. Terrible!” This highlights that delays and hotel quality can significantly affect the experience.

On the brighter side, guide Rashid is frequently praised for his helpfulness and knowledge, making the cultural exploration worthwhile. One traveler even said, “Excellent, local guide Rachid, very helpful,” which underscores the value of a good guide.

Another review mentioned that a port closure shifted their plans, but the company was flexible, and they still managed to see Tangier and Tetouan, which shows some adaptability.

What You Should Know Before Booking

• The ferry tickets require your full name and passport number, so have those ready.
• The tour doesn’t cover visa information, so make sure you’re clear on your own travel documents.
• Timing is tight, so be prepared for early mornings and possible delays.
• The hotel quality can be inconsistent, so don’t expect a luxury stay.
• The camel ride is optional and incurs extra costs on-site.
• This experience is not suitable for wheelchair users.
• You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

Who This Tour Is Best For

If you’re someone eager to experience Morocco’s vibrant medina and enjoy scenic views of the bay, this trip offers a solid overview. It’s a good choice for travelers who want an organized day trip with a knowledgeable guide to help unpack the city’s atmosphere. The ferry crossing adds a sense of adventure, and the cultural exposure is genuine.

However, if hotel comfort or on-time reliability is a priority, or if you prefer a more relaxed pace, this tour might not be ideal. The reviews hint at organizational hiccups and hotel issues, so be prepared for a less polished experience.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the 2-day trip from Seville to Tangier can be a rewarding journey for those curious about crossing into Africa and exploring a city where two continents meet. The guided tour helps you get the most out of your limited time, and the views are genuinely striking. Still, it’s worth noting that delays, hotel quality, and the busy schedule are potential downsides.

This experience is best suited for travelers who don’t mind some rough edges and appreciate cultural diversity. If you’re looking for a straightforward, hassle-free luxury adventure, you might want to explore other options. But if you’re excited by the idea of a quick, guided taste of Morocco, it can be a memorable addition to your travel plans.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour can be enjoyed by most adults, it’s not specifically geared toward children, especially considering the early start and busy schedule. Plus, the hotel accommodations may not be ideal for young kids.

How long is the ferry ride?
The ferry crossing takes approximately two hours each way, which is a significant part of the day’s travel.

What languages are available for the tour guide?
The tour is offered in several languages, including English, French, Spanish, and Italian.

Is the hotel stay part of the tour?
Yes, the package includes an overnight stay at a rural hotel, though reviews suggest it may not match the advertised 4-star quality.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled date for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card for border crossing. It’s also wise to carry some extra cash for optional activities like the camel ride.

Are there any additional costs?
Extra food, drinks, and the camel ride are not included in the base price and will incur extra charges.

What’s the best time of day to start?
The tour typically starts early, around 7:15 am, to maximize your time in Tangier and coordinate ferry schedules.

Traveling from Seville to Tangier can be an exciting way to add Africa to your Spain trip. Just keep in mind the potential organizational quirks and hotel issues, and you’ll be better prepared to enjoy this cross-continental adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: