Despite only having a total area of 6.8km squared, Gibraltar is home to a world heritage site and the only wild population of monkeys in Europe making this a truely unique place to explore!
Highlights of Gibraltar
St Michaels Caves
If you are planning a trip to Gibraltar St Michaels caves should definitely be on the itinerary. It is one of the few places where you can walk through the natural rock formations of stalactites and stalagmites all whilst they are theatrically lit up. The ticket cost to the Upper Rock Nature Reserve includes the entrance fee to the caves making this an affordable excursion with a lot to see.
Upper Rock Nature Reserve
The reserve is home to 300 wild Barbary Macaques and is the only place in Europe where these monkeys are free to roam. This provides a unique opportunity for visitors to walk amongst them and photograph them without the obstruction of enclosure wires. Even though they do permit visitors it is vital to remember that ultimately these are wild animals. Although they are accustomed to a human presence, to not approach or try to feed them. It is advised that if you have a backpack to wear it your front as the monkeys have a tendency to sneak up on unsuspecting tourists taking photographs of the picturesque view from the top of the rock and see what treats they can find, something we saw first-hand on our travels. To get to the reserve you have to go by cable car this in itself is an experience that gives you a good view of the island and beyond as it takes you to the very top.
The Great Siege Tunnels
The siege began in July of 1779 and ended in Februrary 1783. During this time Gibraltar became a territory locked in a war with Spain and France trying to capture it from the British. Walking around the defence tunnels it would be impossible not to marvel at the ingenuity that went into creating the defences. especially, when you consider the period in which this took place. those who worked tirelessly to defend the rock remain a part of the tunnels history through their scribbles that are etched into the stone walls.
Good To Know
The official language of Gibraltar is English. Locals do have a regional dialect of 'Yanito' which is a combination of Spanish, English and Italian.
The rock offers VAT free shopping
The currency in Gibraltar is the Gibraltar Government Sterling. You can also use UK pounds and Euros as these are widely accepted.
If you are staying in Gibraltar the power sockets are the same as in the UK, 220-240V
The emergency service number is 199
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