Can You See Morocco From Spain?
It’s surprising how often I see people asking can you see Morocco from Spain? Especially in travel forums and my own community, it’s one of those questions that comes up again and again. The answer is yes. On a clear day, you can see the mountains of northern Morocco from several places along Spain’s southern coast.
I live in Spain and have travelled all over this region. Seeing Africa from Europe still hasn’t lost its magic. The Strait of Gibraltar is incredibly narrow, just 13 kilometres at its shortest point, which also answers another common question: how far is Morocco from Spain?
If you’re the kind of traveller who likes to plan things yourself — especially if you’re going solo — this guide covers how to see Morocco from Spain and how to make a day trip across the water.
I’ve written a lot about southern Spain and northern Morocco here on Meet Me in Departures, and this post brings together my favourite tips for planning your own cross-continental adventure. I’ll share the best viewing spots, how to get there, and what to expect once you’re on the other side.
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How Far Is Morocco From Spain?
The narrowest distance between Morocco and Spain is a mere 13 kilometres (8 miles).
The Morocco and Spain map below shows the narrow passage of water between them called the Strait of Gibraltar.
This is actually one of the narrowest points between Europe and Africa!
The closest points are between Punta de Tarifa in Spain and Point Cires in Morocco.
Good To Know
Their proximity to each other is part of the reason why there is SO MUCH Arabic influence in the South of Spain.
Cities like Seville, Cordoba and Granada all have stunning examples of Moorish architecture dating back to when this part of the world was referred to as Al-Andalus and under the rule of the Moors.
I was standing just outside of Gibraltar when I took this photo, and you can clearly see a view of Morocco from Spain.
Where Can You See Morocco From Spain?
So, now that you’ve figured out that you can see Morocco from Spain, your next question is probably where you need to go to see it.
There are several places along the Southern Spanish coast.
One of the best places to see Morocco from Spain is Tarifa, a laid-back coastal town in Andalusia.
The town is a top destination for adventure sports and is famous for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and wide sandy beaches. On a clear day, you can spot the Moroccan city of Tangier right across the water.
Another great viewpoint is Gibraltar. This British Overseas Territory sits at the southern tip of Spain, and if you head up the Rock of Gibraltar, you’ll get panoramic views. When the weather’s clear, the Moroccan coastline is easy to see from the top.
Map of Southern Spain and Morocco
Here’s a bit of context to help you visualise it. I’ve made this map to show just how close Spain and Morocco really are.
You can see the Strait of Gibraltar and the parts of each coastline that sit directly opposite each other.
Can you see Spain from Morocco?
Yes!
Just like you can see Morocco from Spain, you can also see Spain if you’re standing along the northern coast of Morocco.
There are a few lookout points in Tangier where you can stand and see the coast of Southern Spain.
Can I Make a Day Trip to Morocco From Spain?
Yes, with a little planning, you can easily do a Morocco day trip from Spain. The easiest destination is Tangier, on Morocco’s northern coast.
The most efficient way to do it is by joining an organised Spain to Morocco tour. They will sort out your transportation to and from the ports, as well as the ferry tickets. I’ll give the best options below.
Alternatively, if you prefer to organise your trip independently, then there are two ports I suggest using:
- Port of Algeciras
- Port of Tarifa
Easiest Way of Getting From Spain to Tangier
The easiest way of visiting Tangier from Spain is from Tarifa (stay overnight here if you have to). You can take a ferry from Tarifa to Tangier within 90 minutes.
Depending on your travel style, this is an easy enough trip to take independently, that is, if you don’t mind arranging all your own tickets and transportation to and from the ports.
Several ferry operators offer the route, which departs from either Algeciras or Tarifa Port in Spain to the Port of Tangier Ville.
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Tangier Day Trip by Ferry with Lunch & Tour Guide
✅ 8 Hours
✅ English Speaking Guide
✅ All transportation included
Getting From Malaga to Tangier
You can not catch a ferry directly from Malaga to Tangier. I don’t recommend doing this as a day trip independently using public transport, either, as it takes approximately 6 hours just to get there.
👉 The better option is to depart from Tarifa, Spain. You can catch a bus from Malaga to Trarifa, which takes anywhere between 2 hours 30 minutes and 4 hours, depending on which service you use. You can check bus times here.
👉 Alternatively, you could book an organised tour from Malaga to Morocco, which will arrange all the transportation for you.
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Day Tour of Tangier with Bazar Shopping and Lunch
✅ 13 Hours
✅ English Speaking Guide
✅ All transportation included
Gibraltar to Morocco Day Trip
Covering a distance of 35 miles (56 km), the Gibraltar-Tanger Med crossing is a short 1.5-hour route. However, departures are limited to just a few times per week.
If there are no suitable crossing times, then I recommend taking the 24 km journey from Gibraltar to Algeciras, or the 47 km journey from Gibraltar to Tarifa and picking up one of the ferries from there.
Or opt for an organised tour from Gibraltar to Morocco to deal with the logistics.
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All-Inclusive Day Trip from Gibraltar to Morocco
✅ 12 Hours
✅ English Speaking Guide
✅ City tour & traditional Moroccan lunch
Seville to Morocco Day Trip
Getting from Seville to Morocco can be quite a challenge if you do it independently. I don’t recommend doing this for a one-day trip.
The journey from Seville to Tarifa takes about 4 hours if you go direct. The shortest bus route goes via Cadiz. You can check the bus times here.
The most efficient way to do a day trip from Seville to Tangier is to book an organised tour.
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Tangier Day Trip from Seville with Guide and Meal
✅ 15 Hours
✅ English Speaking Guide
✅ All transportation included
Can I Go From Cadiz to Morocco?
While Cadiz is indeed a port city, there is currently no direct connection available from Cádiz to Morocco.
One Day Spain-Morocco Trip Itinerary Ideas
Nearly every ferry crossing from Spain to Morocco will land you in Tangier.
Once in Tangier, you have a few options if you’re not part of an organised tour.
Here are my suggestions for things to see in Tangier:
- Visit the Grand Socco, a bustling square in the heart of Tangier’s medina (old town) with daily markets.
- Explore the Kasbah Museum and its beautiful gardens
- Wander the gorgeous old Medina and get lost in the pretty white streets
- Enjoy some authentic Moroccan cuisine at one of the many restaurants in the Petit Socco area
- Go shopping for souvenirs and traditional handicrafts at the Souk
- Take a walk along the picturesque cliffside promenade, Avenue Mohammed VI
- For history buffs, check out the American Legation Museum, which houses artefacts and exhibits on Tangier’s role in American history
Other Places to Go in Morocco From Spain?
Not limited by time? Then I 100% recommend doing some extended Morocco travel from Spain.
If you’re looking for things to add to your Morocco itinerary, then here are my top suggestions on places to go.
- Chefchaouen: This beautiful blue-washed city is just a few hours from Tangier and is perfect for a day trip or an overnight stay.
- Fez: One of Morocco’s most famous imperial cities, with its UNESCO-listed medina and impressive architecture.
- Marrakech: Another imperial city with bustling souks, stunning palaces and the iconic Djemaa el-Fna square. It’s worth spending at least two days in Marrakech because there’s A LOT to do here. For an authentic stay, I recommend staying overnight in a traditional Riad.
- Essaouira: A charming coastal town with a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing beach break or to try some water sports.
- Sahara Desert: For an unforgettable experience, take a trip to the Sahara Desert and spend a night camping under the stars in a traditional Berber camp.
Check out my 10 day Morocco itinerary for some inspiration.
Can You See From Spain to Morocco? FAQs
Can You See Africa From Spain?
Yes, you can see Africa from Spain. At its closest point, Spain and Africa are separated by just 14km (9 miles) across the Strait of Gibraltar. However, the only country in Africa you can see is Morocco.
Can You See Africa From Malaga?
Yes,. The city of Tangier, Morocco, is located just 57km (35 miles) across the Strait of Gibraltar from Malaga, making it easily visible on a clear day.
Can You See Africa From Barcelona?
No. You can not see Africa from Barcelona. The closest point in Africa to Barcelona is the city of Melilla, which is located 270km (168 miles) across the sea.
Can You See Morocco From Portugal?
No. The closest point is Tavira in Portugal and Tangier in Morocco. The distance between Portugal and Morocco is about 45 km (28 miles).
How Far is Morocco From Spain?
The closest point between Morocco and Spain is just 14km (9 miles) across the Strait of Gibraltar, while other points can be several hundred kilometres apart.
Planning to See Morocco from Spain? Here’s What to Do Next
So, you’ve figured out that you can see Morocco from Spain, and you know where to go to see it. Why not take things a step further and experience it for yourself?
If you’re already planning a trip through southern Spain, adding on a visit to Morocco is easier than you might think. Whether it’s a quick ferry ride from Tarifa to Tangier or a longer adventure exploring Moroccan cities, it’s a chance to visit another continent with very little effort.
Want help planning the details? You might find these guides helpful:
- Best Day Trips from Spain to Morocco
- Everything You Need to Know About the Tarifa–Tangier Ferry
- What to Expect When Visiting Tangier for the First Time
Have a question? then don’t forget to join our free Facebook Group and ask the community.
Want to discover more about Morocco? then check out these other great articles to find out more.
Morocco Travel Planning
- Where Is Morocco Located?
- Can You See Morocco From Spain?
- Best 10 Days Morocco Itinerary [Self-Guided]
- 14 Beautiful Cities in Morocco to Visit
- What to Wear in Morocco [Packing List]
- Complete Morocco Souvenir Buying Guide
Things To Do In Morocco
Marrakech Travel
- 19 Top Things To Do In Marrakech
- Best 2 Days in Marrakech Itinerary
- 12 Affordable Riads in Marrakech
Andalucia and South Spain
- Southern Spain Itinerary: Best 7 Days in Andalucia
- Local’s Guide To Seville in 3 Days
- 35+ Top Things To Do In Seville
- 23 Best Day Trips From Seville, Spain
- How to Do A Seville to Cordoba Day Trip
- Where Is the Nearest Beach to Seville?
- How To Spend One Day in Granada
- Best 2 Days in Granada Itinerary
- The Best Cordoba in One Day Itinerary
- 5 Places for the Best Glamping in Spain’s Southern Coast