The walk from Cap Spartel lighthouse to the Caves of Hercules follows the Atlantic edge of the Cap Spartel peninsula west of Tangier, in Morocco's Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region. Cap Spartel marks the north-western tip of Africa where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean, and the lighthouse, built in 1864, is the usual starting point. The route runs south along the cape road and coastal tracks past cliff viewpoints, pine and eucalyptus belts and the Cap Spartel forest reserve, ending at the Caves of Hercules near Cape Achakar. The distance is roughly 7 to 9 km depending on the tracks chosen, and the walk takes about three hours at a steady pace. There is no single waymarked trail, so walkers mix road verge, forest track and sand, and an offline map is advisable. Sections are exposed to Atlantic wind. Cafes and stalls at the lighthouse and the caves provide water and snacks, but there is little between them. Many visitors walk only part of the route and take a taxi for the rest. The caves charge a modest entrance fee, and the Achakar beach lies a short distance further south for a swim or lunch.
| Distance | About 7-9 km one way via road verges and coastal tracks |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2.5-3.5 hours one way |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Trailhead | Grand taxi or petit taxi from Tangier to Cap Spartel: MAD 100-150 (~$11-16) one way, 25-30 minutes; return from the Caves of Hercules by taxi |
| Best season | March-June and September-November |
| Address | Phare du Cap Spartel, Route du Cap Spartel, Tangier 90000 |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Cap Spartel to Cape Achakar, Atlantic coast west of Tangier
What to bring
- Sun hat
- 2 L water
- Sturdy shoes
- Windproof layer
Location
Phare du Cap Spartel, Route du Cap Spartel, Tangier 90000
35.7919, -5.9211 View on map
Highlights
- Meeting point of the Atlantic and the Mediterranean at Cap Spartel
- Cliff-top views of the Atlantic coast and pine forest
- 1864 lighthouse at the cape
- Finish at the Caves of Hercules and Achakar beach
Tips for visiting
- Start early so the walk ends before the afternoon wind and heat.
- Arrange the return taxi in advance or ask a cafe at the caves to call one.
- Stay well back from cliff edges, especially in strong wind.
- Bring cash dirhams for the caves entrance and refreshments.
- Stay on established tracks; the forest edges have no signage.
When to visit
March to June and September to November are mild and clear. Summer afternoons are hot and windy, and winter brings rain and mud.
Accessibility
The route involves uneven tracks, sand and slopes and is not suitable for wheelchairs. The lighthouse viewpoint area is flatter and reachable by taxi.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Cap Spartel to Caves of Hercules walk?
The route is roughly 7 to 9 km one way and takes about 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on the tracks followed and the stops made.
Is the route waymarked?
No. It combines the cape road, forest tracks and coastal paths, so an offline map is recommended.
Can walkers shorten it?
Yes. Taxis run regularly between the lighthouse, the caves and Achakar beach, so any section can be skipped.