Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Calling all hikers, adventurers, nature enthusiasts and photographers; set your sights and cameras on the unspoiled beauty of Gibraltar's environs on this energetic tour that takes you off the beaten path and up the side of the Rock! This is a challenging excursion with three hours devoted to ascending and descending the Rock over steep and often uneven steps, so be sure to wear comfortable and sturdy shoes and comfortable, lightweight clothing.

Your exhilarating adventure begins with a short journey from the pier to Jews Gate, the Upper Rock entrance to the Nature Reserve. Here, you'll meet your specialist guide who will guide your way up the Rock and share his knowledge of this man-made wonder. The Steps were created by the British military as part of a system of communications that would run between defense points. During your climb your guide will point out the gun placements, gun batteries and old military bunkers that date back to the World War II.

But this area of the Rock is also known for its prehistory. Tucked among the steps are a series of caves that date back to the Neanderthal period.

Have your camera handy, as you make the steady ascent you'll be amazed by the breathtaking, postcard perfect views. Hopefully, you've brought along your zoom lens. More than 500 different species of plants call the Rock their home and you'll see many of them as you make your way up the steps. No other place in Europe hosts plants known as Gibraltar Candytuft, Gibraltar Thyme, and Gibraltar Sea Lavender, a coastal plant that grows sparingly even on Gibraltar. One plant that you should look for during your trek is the Gibraltar Campion. Once believed to be extinct, this little pink or white flower can only be found on the high cliffs of Gibraltar. But don't pick it! It's one of the most rare and critically endangered plants in the world today.

If you're lucky enough to be visiting during spring, many of these plants will be in full bloom. And it's also the best time of year for bird watching. During spring's migration season the steps offer a perfect vantage point to witnessing more than 120 species of migratory birds like warblers, eagles and vultures fly north between the continents of Africa and Europe.

Eventually, you'll reach the 1,398-foot summit and stop at O'Hara's Battery, built in 1890 on the former site of a watchtower. From here you have a superb viewpoint over the Strait of Gibraltar, Windmill Hill, Europa Point, the Great Sand Dune, the Mediterranean Sea and the Spanish Costa del Sol.

After you have taken your photos you will walk to St Michaels Cave to rejoin your mini coach for the leisurely and relaxing ride back. A well-earned "I climbed to the top of the Rock, by foot" certificate of completion will be delivered to your Stateroom prior to the end of the cruise.