Visiting Tangier can be an exciting experience, but some of the city’s best attractions are located a little further from the city center. With limited public transport options and expensive taxi rides, getting around can be a challenge, especially if you’re trying to explore more distant destinations. That’s where the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus comes in. Here’s our experience with this convenient and affordable way to explore the outskirts of Tangier.
Affordable and Easy Ticketing
One of the highlights of Tangier’s Hop-On Hop-Off bus is its affordability. A single adult ticket costs just 130 MAD (roughly 13 euros), with discounts available for children. The ticket can be easily purchased either online or directly at the departure point near the port. Once you’ve bought your ticket, you’ll receive a digital QR code, but make sure to stop by the kiosk at the Port de Tanger Ville to exchange it for a printed ticket before boarding. This is essential because you won’t be allowed on the bus without the printed version, so be careful not to lose it!
The ticket grants access to two separate routes, with the validity lasting for 48 hours from the time of purchase. Each route is accompanied by an informative audio guide available in several languages, and you’ll even receive a pair of earphones to enhance the experience.
The Bus: Not Perfect, But Enjoyable
The buses themselves are functional, if not impressive. While the seating is basic and not the most comfortable, the panoramic view from the top deck makes up for it. The audio guide is informative and adds value to the experience, making it easy to enjoy the journey while learning more about the city’s history.
Tanger Ville Route: A Quick City Overview
The Tanger Ville Route is a one-hour loop that takes you through some of Tangier’s most famous landmarks. Starting from the Port, the bus stops at various sites like the Palais Moulay Hafid, the Mosquée Mohammed V, and Place Faro. While the tour gives a good overview of the city, many of these locations are easily accessible on foot or by public transport, making the route more suited for those who prefer a more relaxed and guided tour. Villa Harris, located on the outskirts, is an exception, as it’s a bit far from the city center.
If you’re looking for a brief overview of the city’s main sights, this route is a nice option. But if you have limited time in Tangier, you might find that these stops can be explored more efficiently on foot or by other means of transport.
Grottes d’Hercule Tour: The Real Attraction
Now, let’s talk about the route that makes the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus a truly worthwhile experience: the Grottes d’Hercule Tour. This two-hour journey takes you to some of the more scenic and exciting destinations on the outskirts of Tangier, including the famous Caves of Hercules, Cap Spartel, and Parc Perdicaris.
One of the highlights of the tour is Parc Perdicaris, a beautiful forested park offering plenty of trails and fantastic views of the sea. This park is a favorite among locals, and it’s the perfect spot to enjoy nature, whether you’re walking through the trails or simply relaxing by the views. The park also houses Villa Perdicaris, where the infamous Perdicaris Affair took place in 1904, adding a touch of historical intrigue to your visit.
Cap Spartel is another stunning stop. Located at the entrance to the Strait of Gibraltar, the views from the lighthouse here are breathtaking, offering a rare glimpse of both the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. You can climb to the top of the lighthouse for an even more spectacular view, or explore the nearby cliffs for a unique perspective of the coast.
The Caves of Hercules: A Letdown
While the Caves of Hercules are often touted as one of Tangier’s top attractions, we were somewhat underwhelmed by the experience. While the cave entrance is visually striking, the actual interior is rather underwhelming, and the price of 80 MAD (around 8 euros) for entry felt steep for what you get. The surrounding area, however, is still quite scenic, especially the beach near the caves, where you can walk along the cliffs and enjoy the view for free.
Is the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Worth It?
Overall, the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus in Tangier proved to be a valuable way to explore the city’s more remote attractions. It’s affordable, convenient, and allows you to reach some of the best sights in the area without the hassle of navigating through traffic or negotiating with taxi drivers. While some of the locations may not be mind-blowing, the ease of access and the ability to hop on and off at your own pace make this tour a great choice for visitors who want a stress-free way to explore Tangier. If you’re looking to visit popular spots like Parc Perdicaris, Cap Spartel, or the Caves of Hercules, the bus is a great way to do it without breaking the bank.
