Day 6 – Crossing to Africa: From Algeciras to Morocco

A Slower Morning Before the Ferry

Today allowed for a slightly slower start. Since our meeting time at the ferry port was scheduled for 10:30 a.m., there was no need to get up at our usual 7:00 a.m. Even though our internal rhythm still woke us early, it felt good to stay in bed a little longer and begin the day unhurried.

At breakfast, we met another rally team, and as so often on this journey, the breakfast area quickly turned into a place for exchanging stories and plans. Before heading out, we made sure to find a proper hot coffee to go — a small but important detail before a milestone day like this one.

Gathering at the Ferry Port

After a short 15‑minute drive, we reached the ferry port and met up with the other teams as well as the organization vehicles. From that moment on, the pace noticeably changed. What was planned as a 13:00 departure slowly shifted — first to 14:00, then to 14:30. It was our first real introduction to what many call African patience: waiting, adapting, and accepting that schedules are more flexible than we’re used to.

Eventually, all vehicles were safely guided onto the ferry and properly secured. Only then did we finally set off toward Africa.

Viator and a second men examine a blue map spread over a red glossy car hood featuring Baltic Sea adventure stickers during an outdoor road trip meetup.

The Crossing to Tanger Med

The ferry crossing to Tanger Med took around one and a half hours. During the journey, the first entry formalities already began. A border officer came through the vehicle decks to stamp passports — a process that took time, as every passenger needed to be processed. The pace was calm and unhurried, but everything moved forward step by step.

Just before docking, the last passports were returned, and once the ferry arrived, we were able to drive off without major delays.

Arrival Formalities in Morocco

On land, however, the process wasn’t finished yet. Vehicles were directed to the side, passports were collected once more, and then… nothing happened for quite a while. Waiting again became part of the experience.

Eventually, another border officer appeared, took a quick look into the vehicle, asked a few questions, and finally gave us the signal to continue. By then, it was already around 6:00 p.m., later than expected — but we were officially in Morocco.

First Night in Africa

According to the Roadbook, the first overnight stop was planned about 70 kilometers from the ferry port in Briech, roughly an hour’s drive. We reached our destination in the evening and checked into a small, cozy hotel and camping complex.

After a long and eventful day, we enjoyed a relaxed dinner together with another rally team, sharing first impressions of Africa and reflecting on the crossing. It felt good to finally slow down again.

Looking Ahead

Now it’s time for some rest. Tomorrow, the journey continues deeper into Morocco. The plan is to head toward Marrakesh, with a stop in Rabat, the Moroccan capital, along the way.