My Solo Adventure Tangier Guide and How to Plan with a Family

Several years ago, while studying abroad in Spain, I took a spontaneous three-day trip to Tangier with a few friends. It was an amazing journey filled with new cultural experiences and my first time in Africa. At the time, I was single, without kids, and fully immersed in the adventure of exploring new places.

Now, as a parent, I look back on this trip with a fresh perspective, so I wanted to update this Tangier Guide with my experiences as a solo traveler, plus the activities I would love to do with my kids when we get the chance to visit Tangier together someday. Additionally, while I stayed at the Kenzi Solazur hotel during my solo trip, I can’t be certain it would be my first choice for a family trip, but I would love to share my initial experience for those interested.

Three Days in Tangier, Morocco

On a whim, a few friends from my study abroad trip in Spain and I decided to take the ferry from Tarifa, Spain to Tangier, Morocco, a port town in northern Africa just across the Gibraltar Strait. From the start, we were awestruck by all of the beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The culture in Tangier was also so vastly different from what we were used to in America and Europe. It was so much fun to take in the sights, sounds, and colors of the souk and medina, where I bought two beautiful, authentic Moroccan teapots for my mom’s birthday (they’re still displayed in her kitchen!).

Planning Guide

• Where to stay: Kenzi Solazur
• Flight details: Fly into Tangier Ibn Battouta Airport (TNG) or take the ferry from Spain
• Time of year visited: Summer
• Time in Tangier: 3 days
• Morocco itinerary: Weekend trip during trip to Spain, including Cádiz, Granada, Madrid, and Sevilla

Save this map to use on your trip:

1. Click the star to the right of the map title
2. Open the Google Maps app on your smartphone
3. Click on the three lines in the upper left corner and select “Your Places”
4. Select “Maps” and the map will be saved there for you to use on your trip. Have fun!

Favorite Moments

The Views of the Sea

My fellow travelers and I opted to do a one-day guided tour to get the lay of the land. You can really see a lot in just a few days, and we went to Cape Spartel, the Kasbah (including the Sultan’s former Palace, which is now a museum), the caves of Hercules, the medina, and the souk. It was a perfect introduction to the city for our limited time since it brought us to all of the major cultural sites. The best aspect of this tour for me by far was Cape Spartel, the lookout where you can see the Mediterranean Sea meet the Atlantic Ocean.

“Morocco” and “sea views” don’t typically go together in our minds, but Tangier offers some amazing sweeping views over the sea and ocean. If you look closely, you can actually see a line in the water where the cold Atlantic Ocean and warmer, saltier Mediterranean Sea combine. Because of the differences in the water composition, the sea and the ocean don’t mix together but just meet. The inner science nerd in me found this fascinating!

Don’t Miss: Further south along the Cape Spartel is Hercules Caves, featuring an opening in the cave that exactly resembles the outline of Africa. It is thought to have been carved by the Phoenicians, and it’s really an amazing sight!

Logistics: Cape Spartel is a little ways outside of the main town, so you’ll need to have a car to get there. I recommend hiring an English speaking guide. The national languages of Morocco are French and Arabic, so it isn’t easy to read the signs on your own if you don’t speak either.

Cultural Traditions

After taking in the sweeping sea/ocean views, we had the opportunity to walk the crowded streets of the souk and medina. This was another time that I loved having a guide with us. He was able to help us navigate through the winding alleyways. The souk and medina are so full of life! Locals and tourists alike are out haggling for all kinds of goods (sometimes literally screaming!). The colors of the pottery and the aroma of the spices are a feast for the senses.

We were also treated to a traditional Moroccan meal at Restaurant Hamadi, complete with a quartet of musicians. Since I only spent a long weekend there, I opted for traditional Moroccan food for almost every meal. The Kenzi Solazur‘s restaurant, Al Jawhara, was also a perfect spot for a Moroccan meal.

To end our tour, we had the opportunity to play with camels, which was one of the most fun things I’ve ever done. I love any opportunity to interact with the local wildlife.

Here you can find lots of Tangier tours.

Don’t Miss: If you’ve never had Moroccan food before, you are in for a huge treat. Moroccan food is delicious, full of new flavor combinations and spices. Make sure to try pastilla, a sweet and savory Moroccan pie.

Logistics: If you’re not into crowds, I would skip the souk and medina. As mentioned, the streets are extremely narrow and crowded. People both buying and selling goods can be a little on the aggressive side. If you’re not comfortable with lots of people in close quarters, it might be a tough experience for you.

Demure dress is a cultural guideline when traveling in Morocco. Women should have their shoulders and knees covered. Tangier is also quite hot because of its location near the equator, so plan to wear light, breathable fabrics. If you’re traveling to Morocco or any country that’s hot where you’d like to dress modestly, here are some of my top picks.

Tangier by Sea

After you’ve had a crazy day or two seeing Tangier by land, I highly recommend getting out on the water. Tangier is right on the Strait of Gibraltar, and there’s a lovely ferry that goes directly from Tangier to Spain (Tarifa, Algeciras, and Gibraltar) and back. Along the ride, you’ll not only catch the sweeping views of the city. You’ll also see all kinds of sea life frolicking in the boat’s wake, including pilot whales, which look like dolphins. As you pull into Spain, you’ll also go right past Gibraltar, getting a stunning view of the rock.

If you don’t have time for a ferry ride, Tangier also has a beautiful and large beach right in town. Keep in mind that it’s not traditional for women to sunbathe on beaches, so plan to take a stroll and breathe in the sea air.

Things to Do in Tangier with Kids

What to do in Tangier

Many activities from my solo trip are also great for families visiting Tangier. Cape Spartel, where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic, offers a unique beautiful viewpoint that will be appreciated by all ages. The Kasbah, with the former Sultan’s Palace now serving as a museum, provides a glimpse into Morocco’s history and architecture. The Caves of Hercules, with their legendary stories and distinctive rock formations, and the medina and souk offer an engaging experience filled with local culture, crafts, and food. Families can also enjoy the ferry ride from Tangier to Spain, which gives a view of the coastline and a chance to spot sea life, like dolphins playing in the ferry’s wake. 

In addition to these experiences, here are more family-friendly activities we’d love to do do with our kids:

Tangier City Mall

Tangier’s Tanger City Mall is perfect for a relaxed family outing, especially if you’re looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. Although smaller than other Moroccan malls, it has a variety of high-end shops, a well-stocked supermarket, and a peaceful ambiance that provides a refreshing break from the heat. Super Land is a Netherlands-themed play space on the top floor with bumper cars, a climbing wall, and a large soft play area. There are also plenty of fast-food options.

Tangier Municipal Beach

Tangier’s main beach is located along the city’s coast. While it’s a busy local spot and can sometimes be littered, there are cleaner areas for families to relax and play. Though there are unlicensed horse rides on offer (not recommended for safety), kids will still enjoy the beach experience to run around and check out the views.

Experience a Snake Charmer Show

Another unique experience in Tangier is meeting a real-life snake charmer! With traditional music and a mystical atmosphere, the snake charmer makes a live snake rise out of a basket. Though the charmers sometimes use life-like plastic snakes for photos, it’s still an exciting experience. My boys are currently obsessed with snakes, and I know they would love this.

Mnar Park: Water Fun and Outdoor Adventures

Mnar Park is a water park located just 10-15 minutes from Tangier’s center. It has seasonal pools and water slides. Beyond water activities, families can enjoy go-karting, quad biking, paintball, and a mini funfair. The park also has an indoor play area for younger kids and an onsite restaurant.

Tips from a Parent

To ensure an enjoyable family trip to Tangier, consider the following tips:

• Dress Appropriately: Opt for light, breathable clothing that covers shoulders and knees to respect local customs and stay cool in the warm climate.
• Stay Hydrated: Carry plenty of water, especially when exploring outdoor attractions, to keep everyone hydrated. I do not recommend drinking tap water, it is better to buy bottled water. Our family prefers these reusable water bottles that are useful to keep water cold: Water Bottles for kids, Water Bottles for adults.
• Pack Snacks: Bring familiar snacks for children, as they may be selective with new foods. You may want to check out Carrefour supermarkets, as they offer products from all over the world and you can buy snacks and bottled water.
• Prepare for Crowds: The souks and medinas can be bustling; keep children close and establish a meeting point in case someone gets separated.
• Plan Rest Breaks: Incorporate downtime into your itinerary to allow your kids to rest and recharge.
• Use Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen regularly and consider hats to protect against the strong sun. This is our favorite sunscreen

Safety Tips for Traveling in Tangier

When traveling with kids in Tangier, a few simple safety precautions can ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip for everyone.

• Stay Alert in Busy Areas: Tangier’s medina and souks are lively and can be crowded. Hold your children’s hands and keep an eye on your belongings to prevent any potential issues in the busy markets and streets. It’s also a good idea to add a bracelet with your contact information in your kid’s hand. I also recommend this travel travel safe bag for men and for women.
• Choose Accommodations with Family-Friendly Amenities: Look for hotels or guesthouses that are known to be family-friendly. Many offer extra amenities such as cribs, additional beds, and even play areas, making them more comfortable for families. In addition, depending on the season of your visit, African sun and heat can be a little overwhelming. Prioritize choosing a hotel with pools where you can refresh and enjoy. Here you can find the perfect option for your family.
• Prepare Emergency Contacts: Make a list of important contacts, such as the nearest hospital or clinic, and keep it handy. It’s also useful to know the location of your country’s embassy or consulate in case of any unexpected issues. 
  • Official US embassy in Morocco Instagram
  • Morocco official travel advisory
  • Travel Country information page issued by the US government
• Health Precautions and First-Aid: While Tangier is generally safe, it’s wise to pack a basic first-aid kit for minor injuries or ailments. Ensure that everyone in the family has the necessary vaccinations before the trip and that children are prepared for the different foods and climate.

Quick Facts for visiting Morocco

• PASSPORT VALIDITY: Must have at least six months of validity at time of entry
• BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page required for entry stamp
• TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days
•  VACCINATIONS: None
• CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: Declare large quantities at entry
• CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: Export of Moroccan currency is prohibited

Final Thoughts

Tangier holds endless opportunities for discovery and connection, creating unforgettable moments for travelers of all ages. Be sure to plan your itinerary ahead and please take some time to consider some safety precautions beforehand.

If you have any questions or need further advice feel free to email me or send me a message on Instagram. I’m always happy to share more tips and insights to help you improve your family’s adventures.