Tourist Highlights of Tarifa

Tarifa’s geographical location is unique in the world: between two continents (Europe and Africa), between two seas (Atlantic and Mediterranean) and two Natural Parks (Los Alcornocales and the Straits of Gibraltar). While Natural Park Los Alcornocales (Cork Oak Forests) is a paradise for hikers and lovers of unique native fauna and flora, Straits of Gibraltar Natural Park offers miles and miles of pristine beaches with the possibility of watching waterfowl and other birds, always with the great African panorama in the background.

The area of Tarifa and its two natural parks seduce with a lot of fantastic destinations for day trips. The town itself has a beautiful old town with a centuries old Moorish castle that is worth visiting. Also try the rich gastronomic offer of local products such as Almadraba tunafish, Payoyo goat cheese, Retinto beef and wines from the province of Cadiz. A visit to the famous Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia, located in Bolonia, a few kilometers away, is not to be missed.

The Strait of Gibraltar is a busy marine highway, not only for ships, but also for marine species. Tunafish on their migratory route, as well as dolphins and whales may be observed from the boats of several local companies which offer excursions accompanied by biologists to explain the particularities of these animals.

Tarifa is the place where the distance between Europe and the African continent is the shortest, being only 14 kilometers. This explains why it is here where large flocks of birds gather to cross the Strait of Gibraltar together. With the help of expert ornithologists you can observe rare birds and stunning gatherings of hundreds of migratory birds preparing for the crossing of the Strait of Gibraltar.

Morocco is only an hour away by ferry, but to spend a day is to immerse yourself in another time and a totally different culture, evoking the 1001 Nights or Lawrence of Arabia. FRS offers the trip by fast ferry and also prepares guided tours of Tangier’s magnificent historic center and vibrant markets.