Gibraltar Nature Reserve, Gibraltar Harbour Travel Guide

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Explore Gibraltar's natural beauty, historical landmarks, and unique wildlife in a protected reserve with stunning panoramic views.

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Gibraltar Nature Reserve

The Gibraltar Nature Reserve, encompassing over 40% of Gibraltar's land, offers stunning views, diverse flora and fauna, and historical sites. Home to the famous Barbary macaques, it's a must-see for nature lovers and history buffs alike.

A brief summary to Gibraltar Nature Reserve

Gibraltar, GX11 1AA, GI
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Monday 9:30 am-7:30 pm
Tuesday 9:30 am-7:30 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-7:30 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-7:30 pm
Friday 9:30 am-7:30 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-7:30 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-7:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Gibraltar Nature Reserve.

Purchase your Nature Reserve ticket online in advance to save time and guarantee entry, especially during peak season.
Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the reserve involves a fair amount of walking on potentially uneven terrain.
Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking, as there are limited options for purchasing refreshments within the reserve.
Be mindful of the Barbary macaques; do not feed them or get too close, as they are wild animals and can be unpredictable.
Check the opening hours and plan your visit accordingly, noting that some attractions within the reserve may have specific closing times.

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Explore Gibraltar Nature Reserve on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Gibraltar Nature Reserve, mapped for you.

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Private Gibraltar Tour from Malaga with Free Photography

$2,046.92

Book tours without entry

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Getting There

Walking

From the town center, follow the road through the Southport Gates and head up Europa Road. When the road splits, keep left onto Engineer Road. This is a steep walk that leads to the Gibraltar Nature Reserve. Alternatively, a taxi can drop you off at the entrance at Jew's Gate to save energy for exploring the reserve. Note that the Upper Rock Nature Reserve is not accessible to visitors using private vehicles.
Public Transport

Take Bus Route 1, which stops near the Moorish Castle entrance, the last stop on the route. From the Port of Gibraltar, take a bus from Europort Road to Devil's Tower Road. From there, it's a walk to one of the reserve's entry points. Single bus fares are approximately £2.
Cable Car

The easiest way to access the Nature Reserve is via the Cable Car, which takes you to the Top Station in about 6 minutes. The Cable Car runs every 10-15 minutes. From the top station, you can walk down into the reserve. A return ticket costs £19 for adults and £9 for children. Note that the cable car does not run in November.

Discover more about Gibraltar Nature Reserve

The Gibraltar Nature Reserve, formerly known as the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, protects a significant portion of Gibraltar's natural and historical heritage. Officially designated in 1993 and expanded in 2013, the reserve covers approximately 36% of Gibraltar's land area. It's a place where you can witness diverse habitats, unique plant life, and the famous Barbary macaques, the only wild monkey population in Europe.Rising dramatically from the sea, the Rock of Gibraltar offers breathtaking panoramic views. From its peak, you can see the African coastline, the Spanish Costa del Sol, and the meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The reserve is also a crucial stopover for migratory birds, making it an ornithologist's paradise.Within the reserve, you'll discover historical sites such as the Great Siege Tunnels, St. Michael's Cave, and the Moorish Castle, each telling a story of Gibraltar's strategic importance throughout history. Explore the Mediterranean Steps for a challenging hike with rewarding views, or stroll along the easier paths to enjoy the local flora, including the Gibraltar Candytuft, a flower unique to the region.The British Garrison has historically maintained a strong presence on the Upper Rock, and before WWII, defensive batteries were constructed on most promontories on the Rock for the protection of 'Fortress Gibraltar'. In 1938 the Rock's defenses were strengthened against the possibility of a land attack, particularly those facing north.