Cafe Hafa is a terraced tea garden cut into the cliff of the Marshan district, open since 1921, with rows of blue-and-white tables stepping down towards the Strait of Gibraltar. Visitors order mint tea, coffee or fresh juice and sit for an hour or more watching ships cross towards Spain. The cafe is linked in popular accounts with Paul Bowles, the Beat writers and musicians who stayed in Tangier, and it remains a favourite local weekend spot. Prices are low, with mint tea around MAD 10 to 15, and cakes and snacks are sold by hawkers. The terraces fill by late afternoon, so earlier arrivals get a seat at the railing. The cafe is reached through a narrow gate on the Rue Hafa, and the walk back to the medina takes about 20 minutes.
| Admission | Free to enter; pay for drinks |
|---|---|
| Hours | Typically from the morning until late evening daily; confirm locally |
| Typical visit | 1-2 hours |
| Best time | Late afternoon |
| Getting there | Petit taxi from the Kasbah for about MAD 10-15 (~$1.08-1.61), or walk 20 minutes |
| Address | Rue Hafa, Marshan, Tangier 90000 |
Location
Rue Hafa, Marshan, Tangier 90000
35.7899, -5.8249 View on map
Highlights
- Cliff terraces over the Strait of Gibraltar
- Mint tea at local prices
- Open since 1921
- Sunset views of the Spanish coast
Tips for visiting
- Arrive by about 4pm for a railing seat at sunset.
- Pay at the end; prices are posted at the entrance.
- Carry cash in small notes.
- The steps are steep, so wear flat shoes.
- Weekends are crowded with Tangier families.
When to visit
Late afternoon to sunset.
Accessibility
The terraces are reached by steep steps and there is no step-free route.
Frequently asked questions
What does it cost?
Mint tea is typically MAD 10-15 (~$1.08-1.61); confirm the posted prices.
Does it serve alcohol?
No; only tea, coffee, juice and snacks.
How far is it from the medina?
A 20 minute walk, or a short petit taxi ride from the Kasbah.