Tangier: Hercules Caves, Cap Spartel & Camel Ride Tour

Summary

Atlantic air, camel ride by Tangier’s beach, ancient caves and wild capes

You’ll taste salty Atlantic air on camelback by Tangier’s wide beach, wander through tangled green at Perdicaris Park, stand above crashing waves at Cap Spartel lighthouse, and step inside Hercules Caves’ cool shadows. With local pickup and a small group feel, it’s an easy way to catch Morocco’s coastal mood in just three hours.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was a little nervous about the camel ride — not because of the camels (they looked pretty relaxed, honestly), but more about how clumsy I’d look getting on. Our driver, Youssef, just grinned and said “slowly, slowly,” like he’d seen this a hundred times. The Atlantic wind was salty and sharp that morning at the beach near Tangier; sand stuck to my shoes and I kept laughing at how the camels seemed to know exactly where they wanted to go. The ride itself was gentle — bumpier than I expected but in a good way, like being rocked by the sea. I still remember the way the sea air tasted cold and metallic.

Before that, we’d stopped at Perdicaris Park. It’s not huge but it’s green and tangled in a way that feels almost wild for being so close to the city. There were old men playing cards under eucalyptus trees and kids chasing each other along cracked paths. Youssef pointed out some old stone ruins — apparently there’s a story about spies here? He shrugged and said something about “history everywhere in Tangier.” At Cap Spartel, the lighthouse stood against this weirdly bright sky, gulls wheeling overhead. The view is big — you can see where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic if you squint through the haze.

The last stop was Hercules Caves. I didn’t expect them to smell so much of earth and saltwater — it’s cool inside, damp on your skin even when it’s hot outside. There’s this opening shaped like Africa (Youssef insisted we take a photo there; he was right). People were whispering in Spanish and French around us; it felt hushed somehow, even with all the tourists. We didn’t linger long — entrance fees aren’t included so you pay at the door — but it was enough to feel that odd echo off the stone walls.

I keep thinking about that moment on the camel: wind in my face, not knowing exactly what came next but feeling oddly calm anyway. If you’re looking for a quick day trip from Tangier that actually feels like Morocco (not just another checklist), this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Tangier's key attractions

• Visit Perdicaris Park
• Stop by Cap Spartel
• Enjoy 30-minute camel ride
• Visit Hercules Caves

Top questions

How long does this Tangier tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours from pickup to drop-off.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup is included except from Tanger Med port or Hilton Houara Resorts.

Are entrance fees to Hercules Caves included?

No, entrance fees to Hercules Caves are not included in the tour price.

Is there a guide during this tour?

The tour is led by a bilingual professional driver rather than a dedicated guide.

Can infants or small children join this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are allowed and infant seats are available.

Is this camel ride suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, pregnant travelers are advised not to participate in the camel ride due to safety concerns.

Does this private wine tour include lunch?

No lunch or refreshments are included with this Tangier experience.

Are public transportation options nearby after drop-off?

Yes, public transportation options are available near drop-off locations in Tangier.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes hotel pickup within Tangier city (except Tanger Med port or Hilton Houara Resorts), comfortable travel by air-conditioned minivan with WiFi on board, a gentle 30-minute camel ride along Tangier’s Atlantic beach, plus time exploring Perdicaris Park, Cap Spartel lighthouse area and Hercules Caves (entrance fees not included). A bilingual driver keeps things smooth throughout your small-group journey before returning you back to your starting point.