Total Solar Eclipse Morocco 2027: Private Tours & Tangier Experiences
On 2 August 2027, the Moon's shadow crosses the Strait of Gibraltar and northern Morocco. Tangier sits inside the path of totality. Ismail and Mustapha, a family team based in Ouarzazate, can build a private way to be there.
Where Can You See the August 2, 2027 Total Solar Eclipse in Morocco?
You can see the total solar eclipse of 2 August 2027 from northern Morocco, including Tangier, Asilah, Larache, Tétouan, Chefchaouen and Al Hoceima. You do not have to base yourself in Tangier. In Tangier, totality starts around 09:44:47 and lasts about 4 minutes 51 seconds (Morocco time, UTC+1). Tangier is the easiest base, not the only one. Cities further south such as Rabat, Fes, Casablanca and Marrakech see a deep partial eclipse only. Morocco Meander plans private, flexible eclipse trips around the path, from a single day in Tangier to a ten-day holiday.
Timings follow the eclipse data published by Wikipedia's entry on the eclipse, which draws on NASA/Espenak predictions, and were cross-checked against NationalEclipse and EclipseWise. Always confirm your exact location with an eclipse calculator before travelling.
Totality is the short window when the Moon fully covers the Sun, the sky darkens, and the corona appears. It is only visible inside a narrow band. The 2027 band is about 258 km wide and crosses the Atlantic, the Strait of Gibraltar, northern Morocco and then Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Egypt. For private travelers in northern Morocco, the practical question is not whether to go, but where to stand, and how to get there calmly on the morning itself.
Why Watch the 2027 Eclipse From Morocco?
Morocco's north combines a reliable path position with the kind of place travelers actually want to wake up in. Here is what tends to matter most.
- A long totality for a European-adjacent location. Tangier and Tétouan both see close to 4 minutes 51 seconds. For comparison, Tarifa in Spain sees about 4 minutes 39 seconds.
- A high Sun. At around 38° altitude in Tangier, the eclipsed Sun clears rooftops and most hills. That makes finding a clear view far easier than for a low-Sun eclipse.
- A morning eclipse. Totality is just before 10:00 in Morocco, so you can be settled early, before the afternoon heat and cloud build-up of a summer day.
- Somewhere worth the trip regardless. Tangier's medina and kasbah, Asilah's painted ramparts, Tétouan's UNESCO-listed old town and Chefchaouen's blue lanes make this more than a three-minute event.
- Private logistics. A dedicated driver-guide means no chasing buses and no choosing a viewing spot in a panic.
One honest note: the southern tip of Spain also sits in the path, and Tarifa and Gibraltar get nearly the same totality. Morocco's advantage is not a longer eclipse. It is the setting, the culture around it, and the chance to build the eclipse into a proper journey.
The Eclipse Timeline in Tangier
These are the key moments for Tangier, in Morocco time (UTC+1). Spain is one hour ahead of Morocco, so add an hour if you are reading a Spanish clock.
Tangier: partial phase begins 08:40:39, totality 09:44:47 to 09:49:38, partial phase ends 11:00:32. Times rounded for the diagram.
Where to Watch the Eclipse in Northern Morocco
Each base suits a different traveler, and Tangier is not required. We can build your plan around any of these places. The comparison table shows the trade-offs, and the sections after it explain how we think about each one.
| Destination | Eclipse type | Totality | Logistics | Accommodation | Ideal traveler | Multi-day? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tangier | Total | ~4 min 51 s | Ferry port, airport and rail; the easiest base, and the natural choice for Spain arrivals | Wide range, from boutique riads to larger hotels | First-timers, Spain day-trippers, anyone wanting simplicity | Yes, 1 to 4 nights |
| Asilah | Total | Between ~4:16 and ~4:51; exact figure to confirm | About 45 minutes by road from Tangier; small, walkable town | Smaller guesthouses; limited inventory | Travelers who prefer a quiet coastal setting | Yes, 1 to 2 nights |
| Larache | Total | ~4 min 16 s | Atlantic coast town south of Asilah; drive time from Tangier to confirm | Small hotels and guesthouses; limited inventory | Travelers wanting a quiet, uncrowded coast | Yes, 1 to 2 nights |
| Tétouan | Total | ~4 min 51 s | Roughly one hour from Tangier; hillside old town | Riads and city hotels | Culture-focused travelers | Yes, 1 to 2 nights |
| Chefchaouen | Total | ~4 min 14 s | Mountain town, about two hours from Tangier; steep, narrow lanes | Guesthouses and riads; book early | Photographers, slow travelers | Yes, 2 to 3 nights |
| Al Hoceima | Total | ~4 min 25 s | Rif Mediterranean coast; a considerably longer drive from Tangier, to be confirmed | Beach hotels and guesthouses; limited inventory | Travelers happy to go off the usual route | Yes, 2 to 3 nights |
Totality figures from NASA/Espenak-based sources; drive times are approximate and depend on traffic, which may be heavy on eclipse day. Asilah's exact duration is being confirmed against a calculator.
Tangier: The Simplest Way to Be in Totality
Tangier is our most common recommendation, though not a requirement. It gives you about 4 minutes 51 seconds of totality, a high Sun, and the best transport links in the north. It is also the arrival point for ferries from Spain, which makes it the natural anchor for any private eclipse plan. Our private tours from Tangier and Tangier day tours already show how we handle the city and its surroundings, so the eclipse can be built into a day that still feels like Morocco, not just a viewing appointment.
Asilah: Quiet, Coastal and Walkable
Asilah is a small whitewashed seaside town on the Atlantic, comfortably inside the path. Its appeal is calm. If you would rather watch from the ramparts or a quiet beach than a busy city, it is worth considering. Accommodation is limited, so enquire early.
Larache: A Quiet Atlantic Alternative
Larache sits inside the path with about 4 minutes 16 seconds of totality. It is a low-key coastal town, which suits travelers who would rather avoid the busier hubs. We would confirm the exact timing and the drive from your starting point during planning.
Tétouan: A City of Heritage With Full Totality
Tétouan sees the same long totality as Tangier, about 4 minutes 51 seconds, beginning around 09:45. Its medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the city sits against the Rif foothills. It suits travelers who want architecture and craft alongside the eclipse.
Chefchaouen: The Blue City, With a Shorter Totality
Chefchaouen is inside the path with about 4 minutes 14 seconds, still a substantial eclipse. The old town is steep and narrow with limited open sky, so we would plan a viewing point on its edge rather than inside the lanes. It makes a rewarding multi-day stop, and a beautiful place to spend the day after totality.
Al Hoceima: The Mediterranean Rif Coast
Al Hoceima gets about 4 minutes 25 seconds of totality on the Mediterranean coast. It is further from Tangier than the other bases, so it suits a plan built around the Rif, with more driving time. We would confirm distances and accommodation before recommending it.
Coming From Spain? Ferry Day Trips to Tangier
Tarifa is only about 14 km from Morocco, and ferries cross the Strait to Tangier. Many travelers on Spain's southern coast will ask whether they can simply hop across. The honest answer: possibly, but the eclipse morning is a poor day to rely on a tight connection.
Tarifa to Tangier Ville
The shortest crossing, often around an hour according to ferry aggregators, landing close to the city. Best for a very light day trip.
Needs a sailing that gets you to Tangier well before 09:40 Morocco time. Timetables for 2 August 2027 must be confirmed.
Algeciras to Tanger Med
More sailings, but a longer crossing of roughly 1.5 hours, landing at Tanger Med, around 40 km from Tangier. Port and border processing can add time.
Works better for the evening-before approach than for an eclipse-morning dash.
Cross the day before, stay one night
Take a ferry on 1 August, check into Tangier, and wake up relaxed. Spain's clocks are one hour ahead, so a 10:45 Spanish totality is a 09:45 Moroccan one.
We would meet you at the port and plan the rest, including transport back the day after.
Do you need to cross at all?
Tarifa itself sees around 4 min 39 s of totality. Crossing makes sense if you want Morocco around the eclipse, not only the eclipse. Bring your passport, and check entry rules for your nationality.
Ferry operators such as FRS publish live timetables. We do not guarantee any sailing; we confirm it with you during planning, and we recommend a cushion of time around any border crossing on 2 August.
Private Eclipse Tour Ideas: From One Day to Ten
Everything below is a tailor-made starting point, not a fixed package. Each is private, with a driver-guide, and each can be reshaped around your dates, group and pace. Eclipse-week accommodation is likely to be tight, so these are best enquired about early.
Private Eclipse Day (Tangier or Another Northern Base)
A guided morning in Tangier ending at a chosen viewing spot before totality, with time afterwards for lunch and the city. A good fit for Spain arrivals who cross the day before.
Two Days in the North
One night in the north, the eclipse on the morning of day two, and an unhurried return. Gives a buffer against the morning rush.
Northern Morocco Eclipse Tour
Tangier, Asilah, Tétouan and Chefchaouen at a comfortable pace, or a different northern base such as Larache or Al Hoceima, with the eclipse placed where the logistics are easiest. See also our 8-day route from Tangier for how we pace the north.
Eclipse and the Imperial Cities
The eclipse in the north, then south to Fes and onward. Cities south of the path see a partial eclipse only, so the total is best placed early in the trip.
Eclipse Holiday Through Morocco
Totality in the north, followed by the Atlas, the desert and Marrakech. Our Morocco Encompassed route is one model for the pacing. In August the south is very hot, so we would advise a gentler desert plan, or a different time for it.
These are proposed itineraries, not published departures. No fixed prices are listed; a personal quote follows your enquiry.
A Private Eclipse Holiday, Built Around 2 August
If you want the eclipse as the centerpiece of a longer journey, our tailor-made Morocco tours start from your dates and interests. Some travelers want photography, with time at each location to scout a clear horizon. See our photography tours for how we handle that. Others want comfort, and our luxury Morocco vacations show the level of service we can arrange. Families and multi-generation groups are common, and for older travelers our senior-friendly routes show the pace we favor.
For longer plans, browse our extended Morocco holidays and private tour packages.
Why Plan Your Eclipse Trip With Morocco Meander?
We are not an astronomy society, and we will not pretend to be. We are a family-run Moroccan travel company, run by brothers Ismail and Mustapha and based in Ouarzazate. What we offer is practical:
- Private, flexible tours. Your group, your pace, your driver-guide.
- Local knowledge of the north and the road. Realistic drive times and a plan B for the morning.
- Direct contact. You talk to Ismail or Mustapha, not a call center, by WhatsApp or email.
- Honest advice. If Spain, not Morocco, is the better place for you to watch, we will say so.
- Clear terms. Read our cancellation policy before booking.
Our guests also share their experiences on Tripadvisor and Trustpilot, where you can read them for yourself.
Weather, Safety and Planning
Weather and cloud
Summer mornings on Morocco's northern coast are generally clearer than in winter, but no one can promise a cloudless sky, and coastal haze or low cloud can occur. Our approach is to keep a flexible plan with a nearby alternative viewing spot. Check forecasts in the days before and decide on the day.
Heat
August is hot across Morocco, and much hotter in the south. Northern coastal areas are milder, but pack sun protection and water. This is why we usually suggest placing desert time on a different trip, or keeping it short.
Crowds and booking early
Hotels, ferries and drivers are likely to be in demand around the date. Enquire as early as you can. Our Morocco travel advice page covers general preparation.
Eye safety is not optional
- Use solar viewing glasses or handheld viewers that meet the ISO 12312-2 standard.
- Only during the brief total phase may you remove them. Put them back on as soon as the Sun reappears.
- Never look at the Sun through a camera, binoculars or a telescope without a proper solar filter.
- Guidance: American Astronomical Society eye-safety page.
Buy glasses from a reputable supplier before you travel; the AAS maintains a list of vendors. We would not rely on buying them locally on the day.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2027 Eclipse in Morocco
When is the total solar eclipse in Morocco?
The total solar eclipse takes place on 2 August 2027. In Tangier, totality begins around 09:44 Morocco time (UTC+1), with the partial phase starting at about 08:40.
Where is the best place to see the 2027 eclipse in Morocco?
Tangier is the most practical, with about 4 minutes 51 seconds of totality and the best transport links, but it is not required. Tétouan has the same duration, Al Hoceima about 4 minutes 25 seconds, Larache about 4 minutes 16 seconds and Chefchaouen about 4 minutes 14 seconds. The best place depends on how you want to travel.
How long does totality last in Tangier?
About 4 minutes 51 seconds, from approximately 09:44:47 to 09:49:38 Morocco time, with maximum eclipse near 09:47.
Is Tangier in the path of totality?
Yes. Tangier, Asilah, Larache, Tétouan, Chefchaouen and Al Hoceima are all inside the path. Rabat, Fes, Casablanca and Marrakech are outside it and see a partial eclipse only; Casablanca is expected to see about 97 percent coverage.
Can I see the eclipse from Fes, Marrakech or the Sahara?
You will see a partial eclipse, but not totality. To experience totality you need to be in the northern band of the country. We can build a trip that places the eclipse in the north and the desert and cities around it.
Can I do a day trip from Spain to Tangier for the eclipse?
It may be possible from Tarifa or Algeciras, but it depends on the sailing times on the day, border processing and traffic from the port. We recommend crossing the day before. We confirm ferry timetables with you during planning and do not guarantee any sailing.
Is it better to watch from Spain or Morocco?
Both have totality near 4.5 minutes at the Strait. Spain is simpler if you are already there. Morocco offers a different culture and setting. We are happy to give you honest advice either way.
How far is Tangier from the ferry port?
Tangier Ville port is in the city. Tanger Med, where Algeciras ferries often arrive, is around 40 km away. We can arrange a private transfer.
How early should I book an eclipse trip to Morocco?
As early as you can. Accommodation and drivers are likely to fill around the date. Sending an enquiry does not commit you to anything.
Do you offer private eclipse tours?
Yes. Every trip we plan is private and tailor-made, from a single day in Tangier to a ten-day holiday. The ideas on this page are starting points, not fixed packages.
How much does a private eclipse tour cost?
Cost depends on group size, dates, accommodation and the length of the trip. We do not list fixed prices here. Send your details and you will receive a personal quote.
Is it safe to look at the eclipse?
Only with proper protection. Use ISO 12312-2 certified eclipse glasses throughout the partial phases and remove them only during the brief total phase. Never use unfiltered binoculars, telescopes or cameras.
What if it is cloudy on eclipse day?
Weather cannot be guaranteed. We plan a flexible morning with an alternative viewing spot nearby so that you can adjust on the day based on the forecast.
Can you combine the eclipse with a longer Morocco holiday?
Yes. Many travelers will want to. We can place the eclipse early in the trip and follow with imperial cities, the Atlas or Marrakech. In August the south is very hot, so we will discuss pacing with you.
Plan My 2027 Eclipse Trip
Tell us your dates, group size and where you are starting from. Ismail or Mustapha will reply personally with options. No payment is requested at this stage.
Prefer to chat? Message Ismail on WhatsApp or email contact@moroccomeander.com.
Sources and Further Reading
- Solar eclipse of August 2, 2027, Wikipedia
- NationalEclipse, eclipse path and timing data (NASA/Espenak)
- EclipseWise, eclipse predictions
- Eclipsophile, eclipse travel and weather planning
- American Astronomical Society, eye safety
Keep Planning
- Private Morocco tours from Tangier
- Tangier day tours
- Tailor-made Morocco tours
- Contact Morocco Meander
Plan Your Total Solar Eclipse Experience in Morocco — August 2, 2027
Send us your dates and tell us whether you are coming from Spain or flying in. We will reply with a private plan built around the morning of 2 August.