Fes: Day Trip to Meknes Volubilis and Moulay Idriss

Discover the captivating history and culture of Morocco’s imperial cities on a day trip from Fes. Venture beyond the vibrant medina to uncover the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, the sacred village of Moulay Idriss, and the UNESCO-listed city of Meknes. With private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and included lunch, this tour offers an enriching experience. Explore the region’s rich past and stunning architecture, from the iconic Bab Mansour gate to the bustling markets. What secrets will you uncover along the way?

Key Points

• A 7-hour day trip from Fes to the historic sites of Meknes, Volubilis, and Moulay Idriss, with prices ranging from $50.99 to $56.60 per person.
• The tour includes private transportation, hotel pickup/drop-off, and visits to ancient Roman ruins, a sacred village, and the historical city of Meknes.
• The itinerary highlights a scenic stop at the Chahed River, exploration of the Volubilis Roman ruins, and visits to the village of Moulay Idriss and the city of Meknes.
• The tour includes a professional English or French-speaking driver and guide, with lunch, entrance fees, and mineral water provided.
• Flexible pickup and drop-off options, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, ensure a hassle-free experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This day trip from Fes to Meknes, Volubilis, and Moulay Idriss typically lasts around 7 hours and costs from $56.60 to $50.99 per person, with up to 10% savings available.

Travelers can enjoy the convenience of private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup and drop-off from their hotel or riad in Fes.

The tour includes visits to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, the sacred village of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, and the historical city of Meknes. Travelers can explore the Arch of Caracalla, the royal stables, and other architectural wonders.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this day trip offers a hassle-free way to discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Morocco’s northern region.

Itinerary Highlights

The day trip begins with a pickup from the traveler’s accommodation in Fes, followed by a stop at the scenic Chahed River.

Next, the tour heads to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, dating back to the 3rd century B.C. Here, visitors can admire the impressive Arch of Caracalla and marvel at the well-preserved Roman architecture.

The journey then continues to the sacred village of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, the resting place of Idriss I, where travelers can explore the ancient streets and architectural wonders.

Pickup and Drop-off

At the start of the day trip, the tour provider arranges for the pickup of participants from their accommodation in Fes, ensuring a seamless beginning to the excursion. Upon the completion of the tour, travelers are then returned to their original pickup location.

This convenient arrangement allows for:

1. Easy access to the tour without the need for additional transportation.

2. Flexibility in meeting the provider at a location of the customer’s choosing.

3. A stress-free start and end to the day’s adventure.

The pickup and drop-off service are integral parts of the tour, enabling a smooth and efficient experience for all participants.

Chahed River Views

En route to the ancient sites, travelers delight in the picturesque views along the Chahed River, which flows through the rolling countryside of the region. The serene waterway offers a tranquil respite before the exploration of the historical wonders that await.

The river’s banks are dotted with lush vegetation, and the gentle current creates a soothing ambiance. Stopping at the river’s edge provides an opportunity to admire the natural beauty of the landscape and take in the peaceful atmosphere before continuing the journey to the iconic Roman ruins of Volubilis and the sacred village of Moulay Idriss.

This scenic interlude sets the stage for an immersive cultural experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Volubilis Roman Ruins

After admiring the picturesque Chahed River, visitors arrive at the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, which date back to the 3rd century B.C. and offer a glimpse into the region’s rich historical legacy.

Wandering through the remarkably well-preserved archaeological site, guests can marvel at the Arch of Caracalla, a striking monument that symbolizes the grandeur of the Roman empire.

The ruins also showcase an array of impressive architectural features, including:

1. Intricately-carved columns and ornate capitals

2. Exquisite floor mosaics depicting mythological scenes

3. The remains of temples, baths, and administrative buildings

This UNESCO World Heritage site provides a captivating portal into the past, inviting visitors to imagine the vibrant Roman civilization that once thrived in this ancient land.

Moulay Idriss Village

Nestled on the slopes of Mount Zerhoun, Moulay Idriss is a sacred village that holds profound significance as the final resting place of Idriss I, the founder of the Idrisid dynasty and the first Arab ruler of Morocco.

Pilgrims flock to the village to visit the mausoleum and mosque dedicated to Idriss I, a revered figure in Moroccan history.

Wandering the winding streets, visitors can admire the picturesque white-washed buildings and feel the tranquil, spiritual atmosphere that permeates the village.

Moulay Idriss offers a glimpse into Morocco’s rich cultural heritage, providing a serene contrast to the bustling city of Meknes nearby.

Meknes Historical City

Just a short distance from the serene village of Moulay Idriss, the historical city of Meknes stands as a testament to Morocco’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. As the fourth largest city in the country, Meknes boasts a wealth of captivating sights:

1. The iconic Bab El Mansour gate, a magnificent 17th-century entrance adorned with intricate tilework and grand arches.

2. The shrine of Moulay Ismail, the powerful sultan who transformed Meknes into an imperial city of grand proportions.

3. The expansive Royal Stables, which once housed an astonishing 12,000 horses serving the sultan’s court.

Wandering through Meknes’ ancient streets and bustling markets offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s storied past and vibrant present.

Inclusions and Languages

The tour package includes a professional English or French-speaking driver and guide, providing both linguistic options for travelers.

Lunch, entrance fees to the historical sites, and mineral water are also provided as part of the experience. This ensures that visitors can fully enjoy the cultural and historical aspects of the tour without having to worry about additional expenses.

The availability of both English and French as language options caters to a wide range of international visitors, making the tour accessible and enjoyable for a diverse group of travelers.

With these inclusions, the day trip to Meknes, Volubilis, and Moulay Idriss promises an enriching and hassle-free experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Children Participate in the Tour?

Children are welcome to participate in the tour. The tour provider accommodates families and offers child-friendly activities. However, parents should ensure their children’s safety and cooperation throughout the day’s activities.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour does not specify a maximum group size. However, it offers private transportation, so the group size is likely flexible and can accommodate small to medium-sized groups comfortably.

Is a Vegetarian Lunch Option Available?

The tour includes lunch, but it’s unclear if a vegetarian option is available. Travelers interested in a vegetarian meal should inquire with the tour operator when booking the tour to confirm if this dietary request can be accommodated.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Fit Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to fit specific interests. The tour provider offers flexibility to tailor the itinerary based on the traveler’s preferences, such as spending more time at certain sites or adding additional stops.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour operator offers a 10% discount for students and seniors. Customers can inquire about this discount when booking the tour. The standard prices range from $56.60 to $50.99 per person, with the discount applied.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Fes offers an immersive exploration of Morocco’s rich history and culture.

Visitors can discover the well-preserved Roman ruins of Volubilis, the sacred village of Moulay Idriss, and the vibrant city of Meknes, all while enjoying private transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a delicious included lunch.

It’s an enriching and convenient way to experience the best of this region.

You can check if your dates are available here: