Fez: Walking Tour – Explore the Medina With Shaymae

Fez, the cultural heart of Morocco, beckons visitors with its captivating Medina – a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s steeped in history and tradition. Joining Shaymae on a walking tour through this enchanting labyrinth, one can uncover the city’s rich heritage, from the iconic Madrasa Bouanania to the bustling Tanneries de Fes. With a small group of no more than 10, this immersive experience promises an insider’s glimpse into Fez’s vibrant culture, complete with opportunities to savor Moroccan tea and browse for exquisite handcrafted goods. But what truly makes this tour a must-do is the chance to explore the stories…

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Fes.

Key Points

• Guided 3-hour walking tour of Fez’s Medina led by local experts Hiba and Shaymae, featuring highlights like Madrasa Bouanania and Tanneries de Fes.
• Tour is priced at $24.63 per person with a maximum group size of 10, and includes culture and traditional Moroccan tea.
• Key sites visited include Madrasa Bouanania, Nejjarine Fondouk, and Mosque and University Karaouiyne, with optional activities like traditional food tasting.
• Tour offers insights into local craftsmanship and daily life, allowing participants to shop for handmade products from artisans.
• Participants should wear modest attire, bring comfortable shoes, water, and local currency, and be prepared for extensive walking on uneven cobblestone streets.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview and Pricing

According to the article, the walking tour of Fez’s Medina is led by local guides Hiba and Shaymae.

The tour lasts 3 hours and is priced from $24.63 per person. Reservations can be made with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the group size is limited to 10 participants.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, starting and ending at Bab Rcif. Key sites include the Madrasa Bouanania, Nejjarine Fondouk, Mosque and University Karaouiyne, Henna Souk, Tanneries de Fes, and Place Seffarine.

Participants can expect to discover Moroccan culture, witness local craftsmanship, and enjoy traditional Moroccan tea during the tour.

Itinerary Highlights

The walking tour kicks off at Bab Rcif, where participants explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Fez’s Medina. Over the next three hours, the group explores key sites, including the Madrasa Bouanania, the Nejjarine Fondouk, and the iconic Mosque and University Karaouiyne. At the Henna Souk, they have the option to indulge in a traditional Moroccan food tasting, while the Tanneries de Fes provide a unique glimpse into the city’s leatherworking heritage. The tour concludes at Place Seffarine, allowing participants to appreciate the artisanal craftsmanship that defines the local community.

Site	Duration
Madrasa Bouanania	20 minutes
Nejjarine Fondouk	30 minutes, extra fee
Mosque and University Karaouiyne	30 minutes
Henna Souk	30 minutes, optional food tasting
Tanneries de Fes	30 minutes, extra fee
Place Seffarine	15 minutes

Cultural Experience

Immersing visitors in Moroccan cultural enrichment, the walking tour offers a captivating glimpse into the everyday lives of locals within the largest and oldest Medina.

Led by knowledgeable guides Hiba and Shaymae, you will discover Moroccan traditions and craftsmanship, from the historical sites to the vibrant souks.

Along the way, they’ll enjoy a taste of traditional Moroccan tea, providing an authentic cultural experience.

The tour also presents an opportunity to shop for handmade products from local artisans, supporting the community and bringing home unique souvenirs.

Through this immersive exploration, travelers gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the rich heritage of Fez.

What’s Included

Comprehensive inclusions await participants, with an experienced local guide fluent in English, Arabic, and French leading the way.

The guide provides a culture, showcasing the everyday lives of locals within the largest and oldest Medina.

Entrance fees are covered for select historical sites, though some locations like the Nejjarine Fondouk and the Tanneries de Fes carry an extra fee.

Participants can savor traditional Moroccan tea during the tour.

While transportation services are available, they aren’t included in the tour price.

Guests are encouraged to bring their passport or ID, comfortable attire, and cash to maximize their shopping experience at local artisan stalls.

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Important Information

Participants will find the meeting point under Bab Rcif, the historic gateway to the Fez Medina.

They’ll want to bring their passport or ID, comfortable shoes and clothing, water, cash, and a sun hat. Modest attire is recommended to respect local customs.

The walking tour highlights Moroccan culture, with opportunities to shop for handmade products from local artisans. Reviewers have praised the informative guides and memorable experiences.

Transportation services are available for an additional fee. Entrance fees for select sites may also apply.

With a limit of 10 participants, the tour offers an intimate culture in the largest and oldest Medina.

Meeting Point

Beneath the weathered archway of Bab Rcif, the historic gateway to the Fez Medina, you will convene for the start of their walking tour.

This iconic meeting point serves as the launch pad for an immersive exploration of the winding alleys and vibrant markets that define this UNESCO-listed city.

Guides Hiba and Shaymae will greet the group, ensuring everyone is accounted for before embarking on the 3-hour journey through the heart of Fez.

With a maximum group size of 10, the tour offers an intimate cultural experience tailored to each visitor’s interests and accessibility needs.

Participants should come prepared with their passport or ID, comfortable attire, and enough local currency to cover any optional purchases or site entrance fees.

Items to Bring

When embarking on the walking tour of Fez’s Medina, visitors should remember to bring a few key items. First and foremost, bringing a passport or ID is crucial, as it may be required for entry to certain historical sites. Comfortable shoes and clothing are a must, as the tour involves extensive walking through the winding alleyways. Staying hydrated is important, so a water bottle is recommended. Plus, having some cash on hand is advisable, as it allows for the purchase of local handicrafts and potential entry fees. Lastly, a sun hat can provide protection from the Moroccan sun.

Item	Importance
Passport/ID	Required for entry
Comfortable Shoes	Extensive Walking
Water Bottle	Stay Hydrated
Cash	Purchase Handicrafts
Sun Hat	Sun Protection

Dress Code

Modest attire is recommended when embarking on the walking tour of Fez’s Medina. Participants should dress respectfully to suit the local customs. This means covering up shoulders, chest, and legs.

Light, breathable fabrics that allow for easy movement are ideal. Wearing sandals or closed-toe shoes is also advisable, as the cobbled streets can be uneven. Avoiding revealing or overly casual clothing, like shorts or tank tops, is encouraged.

Adhering to these dress guidelines won’t only make visitors feel more comfortable, but it’ll also demonstrate respect for the cultural heritage of the ancient Medina. Following the recommended dress code ensures a seamless and meaningful cultural experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks on the Tour?

The tour allows participants to bring their own snacks. However, some parts of the itinerary, like the Henna Souk, offer opportunities to sample traditional Moroccan cuisine, which is included in the tour price.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour operator does offer an option to extend the tour duration, though this is subject to availability and an additional fee. Participants can inquire about extending the 3-hour tour at the time of booking or with the guide.

Can I Take Photos Inside the Religious Sites?

Yes, visitors can generally take photos inside the religious sites during the walking tour, though it’s recommended to be respectful and avoid disrupting the worshippers. Some sites may have specific rules or restrictions on photography.

Do the Guides Accept Tips, and if So, What Is the Recommended Amount?

The guides do accept tips, as it’s customary in Morocco. The recommended tip amount is around $5-10 per person, depending on the quality of the tour and the guide’s performance.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Minimum Age Requirements for the Tour?

The tour is open to participants of all ages, with no minimum age requirement. There are no specific age restrictions mentioned in the tour details provided.

The Sum Up

Shaymae’s walking tour through Fez’s Medina offers an immersive cultural experience, showcasing the city’s rich history and vibrant traditions. Visitors can explore iconic sites, savor Moroccan tea, and shop for handcrafted goods, all while learning from a knowledgeable local guide. With a small group size, this intimate tour provides a chance to discover the UNESCO-listed treasures of this captivating Moroccan city.

You can check if your dates are available here: