The Upper Rock Nature Reserve is the centrepiece of any Gibraltar visit — macaques, WWII tunnels, prehistoric caves, and views across to Morocco. Here's everything you need to know, including how to get up now the cable car is closed.
The cable car is closed for a complete rebuild and is not expected to reopen until late 2027. The new cable car will be a modern, environmentally friendly attraction built by the original Swiss manufacturer, Garaventa.
Book Rock Tour by Mini Bus →The cable car is closed until 2027. The Rock Tour by mini bus takes you to the macaques, St Michael's Cave and the Great Siege Tunnels in one trip.
View the Nature Reserve GuideEurope's only wild primates. Roughly 300 macaques live on the Upper Rock. They're bold and curious — keep food out of sight and never feed them.
Google MapsA stunning natural limestone cavern with dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. Now used as an amphitheatre for concerts and events.
Google Maps18th-century military tunnels carved by hand into the Rock during the Great Siege of Gibraltar (1779–1783). Remarkable engineering.
Google MapsA WWII gun emplacement near the summit (428m) offering panoramic views of the Strait, Morocco and the Costa del Sol on clear days.
Google MapsBuilt in 711 AD by the Moors who first captured Gibraltar. The Tower of Homage dominates the northern Rock and is one of Gibraltar's most iconic sights.
Google MapsA challenging hiking path up the eastern face of the Rock with extraordinary views. Rich in bird life — thousands of raptors migrate through each year.
Google MapsFrom the summit area (428m) on a clear day you can see:
The cable car is closed for rebuilding until 2027. Take the Rock Tour by mini bus (operated by MH Bland) or hike the Mediterranean Steps. Taxis can also drive to the upper attractions.
Don't feed them, don't touch them, and keep food in sealed bags. They will grab anything. A macaque stealing your sunglasses is funny until it happens to you.
Morning is best — cooler, fewer crowds, and you beat the cruise ship visitors. Avoid midday in summer (July/August) when it's very hot on the exposed paths.
Sturdy shoes are essential for hiking — some paths are steep and rocky. Bring water. The summit can be cooler and windier than town even on hot days.
On clear days you can see Morocco (14km), the Costa del Sol, and both the Atlantic and Mediterranean from the same viewpoint. The Strait of Gibraltar is one of the most photographed views in Europe.
Gibraltar's famous cloud cap forms when easterly 'Levanter' winds blow. The Rock can be in cloud at the top while the town below is sunny. Check conditions before heading up.
The cable car is closed until 2027. Options: Rock Tour by mini bus (easiest, book at buytickets.gi), hike the Mediterranean Steps (1.5–2 hours, challenging), or take a taxi.
Yes — Morocco is just 14km across the Strait and is clearly visible on most days. The Rif Mountains are easily identifiable, and on very clear days you can see the Atlas Mountains.
The Rock Tour by mini bus includes entry to the main Upper Rock attractions. Individual attraction prices vary. Check buytickets.gi for current pricing.
They can bite if provoked or if they feel threatened. Don't touch them, don't feed them, and keep food sealed. They are bold and will grab food, sunglasses, or bags.
Allow 3–4 hours to see all the main attractions properly: St Michael's Cave, the Great Siege Tunnels, the macaque area, and the views. The Rock Tour by mini bus typically takes 2–3 hours.
Some areas are accessible via vehicle, but the Upper Rock has many steps and uneven paths. The Rock Tour by mini bus is the most accessible option — contact the operator for specific access requirements.