1 Day Trip from Fes to Volubilis and Meknes

Description of Fes to Volubilis and Meknes day trip

Such an outstanding example is this. A day trip from Fes to Volubilis and Meknes, including an excursion to the best-preserved Roman archaeological site in Morocco, the ruined city of Volubilis. It is most remarkable for the numerous magnificent mosaics that have been preserved in their original locations. In 1997, UNESCO recognized Volubilis as a World Heritage Site.

Highlights of a Day Trip from Fes to Volubilis and Meknes

• Volubilis, an ancient Roman metropolis, should be explored.
• Visit Lahdem Square and Bab Mansour in Meknes Medina.
• Admire the holy metropolis of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun in Morocco.

Itinerary of the 1-day excursion from Fes to Volubilis and Meknes

One of the most popular day trips from Fes is to Volubilis and Meknes; it is a timely opportunity to travel beyond the city limits of Fes and visit three exciting sites: the Roman ruins of Volubilis, the spiritually significant small town of Mulay Idris Zerhoun, and Meknes, an imperial city of Morocco renowned for its tranquility.

1. Volubilis

The initial destination is the Roman archaeological site of Volubilis. This site, which dates back to the Carthaginian period, is among the most well-preserved archaeological locations in North Africa, not just in Morocco. Volubilis serves as the emblem of the ancient city of Meknes and is regarded as a prominent tourist and historical attraction within the city.

Archaeological investigations conducted since the early twentieth century have unveiled that the origins of this historic city, Volubilis, can be traced back to the third century BC or earlier. Its urban victories provided proof of the region’s decades-long civilization’s magnificence.

Moreover, this urban region or archaeological site is renowned for its splendor and natural beauty, which entices visitors with its picturesque landscape situated amidst the urban influence of the city. This landscape features magnificent mosaic panels encircling a substantial wall, ancient columns bearing Roman letters, houses, and temples. The mosaics of Diana’s bath, the bath of the nymphs, and Hercules’ tribulations are among the best-preserved.

Numerous public buildings can be found in Volubilis, such as the renowned Capitol Temple, the Arc of Freedom, the court, and the public plaza. Additionally, there are a number of mills, olive presses, baths, and wall remnants to be discovered.

2. Molay Idriss Zerhoun 

The next location is Moulay Idris Zerhoun, which is considered the earliest Islamic city in North Africa. It bears the name of its progenitor, Moulay Idris. It covers two elevations and is located 550 meters above sea level beneath Mount Zerhoun. Olive plantations and verdant grasslands line its perimeter. Prior to 1917, non-Muslims were prohibited from accessing the city. It retains the aura of a holy city to this day. Fortunately, at this time, only the mausoleum of Mulay Idrs is off-limits to non-Muslim visitors.

A labyrinth of steps clings to a hill upon which the city is perched. Certain “Terraces” offer breathtaking vistas of the pathways, the mausoleum, the city, and the modest residences that encircle it. One might become entangled in the winding alleyways of this captivating metropolis, search for the distinctive circular minaret of Morocco, or admire the vista from one of the panoramic terraces.

Annually, this municipality celebrates the Season of Moulay Idris the Greater. This modest sacred city hosts the most significant religious festival.

Thousands of devotees, Sufi factions, and various gatherings visit Moulay Idris annually at the end of August, carrying an abundance of gifts and accompanied by folkloric groups including the Aissaoua, Hamadisha, and Tuat people.

3. Meknes 

The final destination of the day excursion from Fes to Volubilis and Meknes is Meknes, the least renowned of the four imperial capitals of the country. Ever since the 10th century AD, Meknes has garnered considerable attention. Although it is considerably less bustling with important buildings than those found in Fes and Marrakech, its medina is breathtakingly beautiful and tranquil. In the lively souks, where you can observe artisans weaving or ironing using ancient techniques, the city also features a madrasa.

Although the Medina is aesthetically pleasing, Meknes’ most breathtaking attractions are situated beyond its walls. Meknes is distinguished by an abundance of ancient structures and fortifications and its considerable size. It was fortified by Mawla Ismail with forty kilometers of ramparts that were fortified with an assortment of enormous urban gateways and turrets. There are numerous exquisite gates within the fortifications, with the Bab Mansour being the most remarkable.

Lahdem Square, situated on the contrary of this entrance, bears a resemblance to the renowned Jamaa el Fna Square in Marrakech. The plaza is enclosed by a wall on one side and a market with restaurants on the other. Additionally, this expansive piazza is teeming with commotion and a variety of ambiances and creatures, such as serpent charmers, an ostrich, and Barbary primates.

Royal Stables, to conclude, is a fascinating site that you will appreciate visiting while in Meknes. It is the solitary site of interest that is marginally distal. Cavalries served as food storage vessels and dwellings for thousands of horses. The stables’ exterior is quite attractive and provides an excellent opportunity for photographs.

Due to the importance of its historical locations, Meknes was inducted into the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1996.

The excursion from Fes to Meknes and Volubilis by day concludes with a return transfer to your hotel in Fes.

What the price includes and excludes

 includes:

• Transportation to and from your accommodation.
• Private transportation in a modern automobile with air conditioning.
• A driver/guide with prior experience who is fluent in English.
• Vehicle fuel. 

not include:

• Drinks
• Lunch