The lighthouse at Cap Spartel where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, near Tangier

Cape Spartel

Hours

Always open

Entry

Free

Duration

30 minutes

Location

14km west of Tangier

Where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean at Africa's northwestern tip. The lighthouse marks the geography; the views take in two seas and, on clear days, Spain.

Where Continents Almost Touch

Cape Spartel is the northwestern tip of Africa — the point where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean. On a clear day, Spain is visible 14 kilometres across the strait. The lighthouse, built in 1864 by international agreement, was administered by a commission of European diplomats. It sits in a cork oak forest above cliffs.

The Lighthouse

White octagonal tower above a diplomatic residence. The building reflects its multinational origin — it looks more European than Moroccan. The surrounding forest and the cliff path are the real attraction.

Visiting

14 km west of Tangier. Taxi or drive. The exterior and viewpoint are accessible. The lighthouse interior opens intermittently. Combine with the Hercules Cave, 5 km south along the coast.

Best Time to Visit

Afternoon. Clear days for the Spain view.

Getting There

14 km west of Tangier by road.

Local Tip

Combine with Caves of Hercules

Common Questions

On clear days, yes. The Spanish coast is 14 km away.

Walking Distance

Nearby

Natural

Hercules Cave

Cap Spartel is where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean. We drive there from Tangier for the lighthouse and the silence — on clear days, Spain is close enough to wave at.

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