Monkeys may not outnumber the human residents in Gibraltar, but they are certainly what the tourists come to see in this English sovereignty that hangs off the southern tip of Spain. The macaques are allowed to roam free throughout the peninsula, and have been known to both pester and delight tourists alike. Though they are considered wild, and should be thought of as dangerous, they have become accustomed to visitors and the food treats that tourists share. These daring creatures will pretty much do whatever it takes to steal your snack if you are unaware, so do be cautious.
The magnificent remains of a moorish fortress built in 711 sits at the top of Gibraltar, and you are welcome to go in and out of the few remaining tunnels left. As you view the waters around the rock, you will see ships sporting all sorts of sonar and detecting equipment from various British intelligentsia since Gibraltar is a strategic entrance to boats that must enter the area.
The famous Strait of Gibraltar separates the rock from Africa, and on a clear day you can see that continent quite easily. It is also at the place where the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean meet.
Shopping at Gibraltar is a destination for many, since there is no VAT tax — tobacco, spirits, perfume and electronics are some of the cheapest in all of Europe. One shop has a big sign that claims it is the “last shop in Europe,” and by geographical standards it is actually accurate since the ocean to Africa is right next door.
Gibraltar can easily be a day trip if you are doing a jaunt around Spain, but if you plan to stay overnight, you should consider the Rock Hotel, as the views of the bay are spectacular and the food is terrific. The suites are comfortable and have all the amenities one could want in a hotel stay. If you can afford it, ask for one of the few rooms with a balcony as then you will inevitably be treated to a spectacular sunset.
The roads are windy and quite steep as you climb Gibraltar, and there are many spots to pull over your rental car and see the views. This is where the monkeys usually go, as they know they’ll inevitably hit upon a tourist. They have been known to jump on cars and tear at windshield wipers or antennae if they are in a bad mood. And I’ve seen them hop on the back of an unsuspecting tourist to grab at a soft drink or even a piece of candy. These macaques often hang out and sun themselves on the very edges of the road walls, and visitors can often be seen getting close to them so that they can snap a photograph. Again, these are not domesticated animals, and you should be careful.
Getting in and out of Gibraltar is actually a bit of a pain, even if you’re driving. You have to stop, have your passport reviewed, and be questioned about the contents of your auto and the reason you are there. Oftentimes, the lines and wait for this process can be quite long which might make you wonder if the trip was worth it at all. But most people will agree that having that photograph of you standing next to a wild monkey makes it totally worthwhile.