group of travelers in a 4wd in the desert of morocco: travel from southern spain to morocco

Travel from Southern Spain to Morocco: Your Complete Guide

Traveling from Southern Spain to Morocco is more effortless and offers an exciting gateway to North Africa. Whether you are looking to explore the Sahara Desert, discover Morocco’s historic cities, or take a short trip across the Strait of Gibraltar, this guide will help you plan your journey.

 

Ferries from Southern Spain to Morocco

ferry in the ocean

The most popular and convenient way to travel is by ferry. Ferries run frequently from Tarifa, Algeciras, and Motril, making the trip to either Tangier Ville or Tangier Med. The ferry from Tarifa is typically the fastest, taking only 35 to 60 minutes to reach Tangier Ville, located close to the city center. It’s the best choice if you want to avoid the red tape and long transit times associated with Tangier Med.

  • Tarifa to Tangier Ville: Fast ferry ride, best for tourists.
  • Algeciras to Tangier Med: Longer trip, good if you have a vehicle.
  • Ferry Costs: Prices range from $35 to $50 depending on the season.

Why Start Your Adventure from Tangier?

tangier and the ocean

Tangier is an excellent starting point for exploring the rest of Morocco. While it’s not the most exciting city for extended stays, it’s the gateway to Morocco’s best destinations. Our private tours from Tangier allow you to experience the Blue City of Chefchaouen, the ancient medina of Fez, the Sahara Desert, and Marrakech.

  • Chefchaouen: Known for its blue-painted streets, it’s a two-hour drive from Tangier and offers a nice atmosphere, perfect for photography and relaxation.
  • Fez: Explore the spiritual heart of Morocco with its historic medina, narrow streets, and strong culture. It’s a 4 hours drive from Tangier and an essential stop for any traveler.
  • Sahara Desert: From Tangier, you can embark on a memorable journey to the Sahara Desert, where camel treks and nights under the stars await.
  • Marrakech: Known as the “Red City,” Marrakech is a lively, historic destination filled with colorful souks, beautiful palaces, and gardens. It’s a must-visit for everyone visiting Morocco.

How to Get Around Morocco from Tangier

4wd vehicle in the sahara desert of morocco

Once you arrive in Tangier, getting around Morocco is easy with trains, buses, or private transportation. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Train: Morocco’s ONCF train system connects Tangier to cities like Fez, Casablanca, and Marrakech. Tickets are affordable, ranging from $10 to $30, depending on the route and train class.
  • Bus: Long-distance buses like CTM and Supratours are available for budget travelers. Fares range between $5 and $20.
  • Private Tours: For a more customized experience, our private tours offer air-conditioned transport, knowledgeable guides, and the ability to personalize your journey. From Tangier, we can take you directly to Chefchaouen, Fez, the Sahara Desert, or even Marrakech.

Best Time to Travel from Southern Spain to Morocco

palm trees in the desert during sunset

The ideal time to visit Morocco is during spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when the temperatures are pleasant and comfortable for exploring the cities and landscapes. Summer can be very hot, especially in southern Morocco, so plan your trip carefully if visiting during those months.

Conclusion: Travel from Southern Spain to Morocco

Traveling from Southern Spain to Morocco is simple and offers a unique opportunity to explore the culture and beautiful landscapes of this North African country. Whether you’re heading to Chefchaouen, Fez, or the Sahara Desert, our private tours from Tangier make sure you have the most memorable experience.

Ready to explore Morocco? Book one of our private tours today, and check out our guides on travel safety, the 10 best places to visit, when to travel, and how much does cost to travel to Morocco!

Published on October 4, 2024
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Commonly Asked Questions
1. Do I need a visa to visit Morocco from Spain?
U.S. and E.U. citizens do not need a visa to stay for up to 90 days. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your entry date.
The ferry from Tarifa to Tangier Ville takes about 35 to 60 minutes, while the ferry from Algeciras to Tangier Med takes about 90 minutes.
The train system is efficient for travel between major cities, but for more personalized trips, private tours are the best option.
Morocco is generally safe for tourists. However, it’s always wise to stay alert, especially in busy areas. Hiring a local guide ensures a smoother and safer experience.
3 min min reading time
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Author: Badr Rachadi
Badr is a Moroccan traveler and founder of Memento Morocco. He shares practical, experience-based guides to help travelers understand how Morocco actually works on the ground—beyond the typical advice found online.
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Planning your Morocco trip?

I’m Badr. I help travelers plan their dream Morocco trips every day. Ask me anything: routes, budgets, riads, desert camps. Completely for free.