Tourist activities in Tarifa
The entire area around Tarifa with its two natural parks seduces with fantastic destinations.
Natural Parks
Tarifa´s geography is unique in the world: This singular place is located between two continents (Europe and Africa), between two seas (Atlantic and Mediterranean) and two Natural Parks (Alcornocales, i.e. Cork Oak Forests and El Estrecho, i.e. Strait of Gibraltar). While Los Alcornocales is a true paradise for hikers and lovers of native fauna and flora, El Estrecho offers miles and miles of unspoilt beaches which allow for observing the flight of aquatic birds with the stunning background of the African continent.
Villages and towns
The area around Tarifa with its two natural parks offers plenty of fantastic destinations for day trips. Tarifa town itself boasts a beautiful historic center, with an ancient Arab Castle worth visiting. There are various charming white villages in the nearby mountains to discover, as well as the provincial capitals Cádiz and Málaga nearby Gibraltar, “The Rock”. It is also worth trying out the area´s rich gastronomic offer which includes local highlights such as tuna fish caught according to the ancient “Almadraba” fishing method, “Payoyo” goat cheese, “Retinta” veal and the famous wines from Cádiz province. A visit to the Roman town of Baelo Claudia, located in nearby Bolonia, is an absolute must
Whale Watching in Tarifa
The Strait of Gibraltar is a very busy marine highway, not only for ships, but also for marine species. Millions of tuna fish travel between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean on their migratory route, while dolphins and whales may be observed from small boats. Various local companies, including Firmm foundation offer excursions with marine biologists explaining peculiarities and behavior of these animals.
Observation of birds in Tarifa
Tarifa is the place on the European continent which is nearest to Africa, separated by only 14 kilometers. This makes it the major “traffic hub” for migratory birds. With the help of expert ornithologists you will be able to see rare birds and observe large flocks of different kinds of birds while they prepare for the crossing of the Strait of Gibraltar
Morocco
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. There are various companies which offer the trip by fast ferry and also prepare guided tours of Tangier’s magnificent historic center and vibrant markets.
Punta Sur is so much more than a hotel: It is a gem tucked away between two Natural Parks, between the ocean and the mountains.
