Cafe Hafa is a historic terrace cafe, founded in 1921, perched on the cliff in the Marshan district of Tangier, in Morocco's Tangier-Tetouan-Al Hoceima region. Its stepped terraces of tables and blue-and-white railings look straight out over the Strait of Gibraltar, with the Spanish coast visible on clear days. The cafe is known for mint tea and a long list of writers, artists and musicians who sat there, and it is a favourite for relaxed travel photography. Late afternoon and sunset give warm side-light on the terraces and the water, while morning is quieter. A 35mm or 50mm prime works well for details such as tea glasses, tiled tables and patrons, and a zoom helps frame ships crossing the Strait. A polarising filter reduces glare on the water. Tables fill in the late afternoon, so arriving early secures a spot with a view. Visitors should order a drink as a courtesy for sitting and shooting, and ask permission before photographing other guests. Prices are modest, with mint tea costing roughly MAD 10-20 (~$1-2). The cafe is a short taxi ride or a hilly walk from the Kasbah.
| Best time | Late afternoon to sunset; mornings for fewer visitors |
|---|---|
| Best season | Year-round; April-October for outdoor terrace comfort |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Address | Cafe Hafa, Avenue Hadj Mohamed Tazi, Marshan, Tangier 90000 |
Shooting notes
- Equipment
- 35mm or 50mm prime, 24-70mm zoom, Polarising filter
Location
Cafe Hafa, Avenue Hadj Mohamed Tazi, Marshan, Tangier 90000
35.7897, -5.8177 View on map
Highlights
- Terraces overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar
- Mint tea and traditional cafe scenes
- Warm side-light at late afternoon
- Ships crossing between Africa and Europe
Tips for visiting
- Arrive an hour before sunset to claim a terrace table.
- Order a drink to sit and shoot.
- Ask permission before photographing patrons.
- Use a polariser to cut glare off the water.
- Expect queues for seats at weekends.
When to visit
Late afternoon to sunset; weekday mornings for quiet.
Accessibility
The cafe is built on steps and terraces and can be difficult for wheelchair users.
Frequently asked questions
Is Cafe Hafa worth visiting for photos?
Yes. The terraces and Strait views make it a classic Tangier scene, best at late afternoon.
How much does tea cost?
Mint tea is typically around MAD 10-20 (~$1-2), though visitors should check the menu.
Can it be reached on foot?
Yes, with a steep walk from the Kasbah area, or a short petit taxi ride.