TRIP DESCRIPTION:
Go back in time and discover the great historical monuments that fill the Imperial City and Roman Ruins on a Full Day Trip from Fes to Meknes and Volubilis. Meknes is located in northern central Morocco, just one hour away from Fes. The historical city of Meknes has been inscribed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996. You will be surprised by the amount of the historical Islamic monuments in this Imperial City that dates back to the 11th Century. It was firstly founded as a military settlement and became a capital of Morocco during the 17th century. The whole architecture of Meknes is built with Islamic Art of the 18th Century. Pay a visit to the archeological site of Volubilis that dates back to the 3th Century BC. This excavated Berber City is built in a fertile agricultural area and ancient remains of the Roman buildings.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Cross the fertile Saiss Plains and the hills of vineyards and olive groves
- Live the excitement and the atmosphere of the city in Place El-Hedim
- Walk around the souks in the old town
- Visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail
- Be amazed by the fantastically architected gates and the narrow streets of the medina
- Wander in the hill town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, one of the holiest and historical places in Morocco
- Explore the Roman ruins of Volubilis that is declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Enjoy the biodiversity of the Atlas Mountains
ITINERARY:
Your driver will pick you up early in the morning from your hotel or riad in Fes. The trip to Meknes takes about an hour across fertile plains and olive trees that make the ride pleasant and very scenic. You may have a quick stop to enjoy the landscapes, cool air and capture incredible photos along the way.
The tour of Meknes begins at the Gate of Bab El Mansour, one of the 20 gates of the great wall and the grandest of all imperial Moroccan gateways, which are known for their geometric ornamentation, devotional inscriptions and marble columns.
Right in front of this amazing gate, we will pass through Place El-Hedim, as translated “the Square of Demolition”. The square is a smaller version of Jemaa El-Fnaa Square in Marrakech where you can shop for traditional crafts or sit by the café and relax.
We will stop and visit the Musée Dar Jamaï, a museum showing modern Moroccan arts, woodworks, ceramics, carpets, costumes, jewelries and metalwork. The sophisticated building was once a palace incorporating a mosque.
Passing through the narrow streets of the medina, visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. Moulay Ismaïl Ibn Sharif, also known as the “Warrior King”, was the ruler of Moroccan Alaouite dynasty. During his reign, he built Meknès and made it Morocco’s capital.
During the afternoon, take a moment to enjoy a traditional Moroccan meal and a cup of tea in a local restaurant inside the medina before you continue this tour around the historical monuments. (at your own expense)
During the second half of the trip, we will leave Meknes for a short ride to Volubilis. A whole hidden history of different periods from the timeline of this region is protected to be discovered by generations and visitors from all over the world. The site contains the mansion exposing the Roman architecture with the incredible mosaics, monumental arches and Corinthian columns.
As soon as the day takes off, we will return to Fes and drop you off at your hotel or the nearest car accessible point to your riad.
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
- Air-conditioned minivan or 4WD Fuel included
- Professional English-speaking driver / guide
- Professional local guide in Meknes
- Mineral water during the day
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Fes
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?
- Tips and Gratuities
- Entrance Fees
- Lunch and Drinks
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Departure Time: 9:00 AM
Arrival Time: 9:00 PM
