Volubilis, Moulay Idriss & Meknes Excursion From Fez

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Morocco’s rich history and cultural tapestry with the Volubilis, Moulay Idriss & Meknes Excursion from Fez. Uncover the remarkably well-preserved Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before venturing to the holy town of Moulay Idriss, a revered pilgrimage destination steeped in Moroccan tradition. Witness the grandeur of Meknes, a former imperial capital, showcasing impressive monuments and architectural marvels. Along the way, soak in the serene vistas of the Sidi Chahed waters, offering a tranquil respite amidst the historical splendor. This captivating excursion promises to unveil the depth and diversity of Morocco’s cultural heritage.

Key Points

• Explore the remarkably well-preserved Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back over 2,300 years.
• Visit the holy town of Moulay Idriss, a revered pilgrimage site steeped in Moroccan history and culture, with stunning views overlooking the town and surrounding countryside.
• Discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of Meknes, the former imperial capital of Morocco, known for its imposing walls, monumental gates, and impressive royal stables.
• Enjoy the serene vistas of the Sidi Chahed waters, a peaceful waterway surrounded by lush greenery and towering hills, providing a tranquil respite along the excursion route.
• Benefit from private transportation and a professional driver to ensure a seamless and flexible excursion, with pickup and drop-off at the client’s hotel or riad.

Discovering Volubilis: Ancient Roman Ruins

Visitors often begin their excursion by marveling at the remarkably well-preserved Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back over 2,300 years.

As they wander through the ancient city, they’ll be struck by the grandeur of the triumphal arch, the intricate mosaics adorning the floors of former villas, and the towering marble columns that once supported stately buildings.

The site offers a captivating glimpse into the past, allowing travelers to imagine the bustling commercial hub that Volubilis once was.

From the prominent placement of the semi-circular bakery to the remnants of an impressive olive oil press, the ruins provide fascinating insights into the daily life of Roman inhabitants centuries ago.

Exploring the Holy Town of Moulay Idriss

After exploring the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, the excursion ventures onward to the holy town of Moulay Idriss, a revered pilgrimage site steeped in Moroccan history and culture.

Visitors can wander through the town’s winding streets and admire its white-washed buildings adorned with intricate tilework. The highlight is the tomb of Moulay Idriss I, the founder of the Idrisid dynasty and the first Arab ruler of Morocco.

Pilgrims come to pay their respects at this sacred site, which is off-limits to non-Muslims. However, the stunning views overlooking the town and the surrounding countryside can be enjoyed by all.

This stop offers a glimpse into Morocco’s deep-rooted spiritual traditions.

Meknes: A Historic Moroccan City

From Moulay Idriss, the excursion continues on to the historic city of Meknes, another UNESCO World Heritage site and a former imperial capital of Morocco. Meknes’ rich history and architectural marvels captivate visitors, showcasing the grandeur of Morocco’s past dynasties.

The city’s imposing walls, monumental gates, and impressive royal stables reflect its status as a powerful center of governance during the 17th century Alaouite dynasty.

Meknes offers a wealth of sights to explore, including:

• The Bab Mansour Gate, an ornate 17th century portal considered one of the most beautiful in the country
• The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the powerful sultan who transformed Meknes into an imperial city
• The Heri es-Souani, the sultan’s impressive granaries and stables that could house up to 12,000 horses
• The Place el-Hedim, a lively public square surrounded by historic buildings
• The Dar el-Makhzen, the former royal palace now housing a museum of Moroccan art and archaeology.

Sidi Chahed Waters: Scenic Vistas

The scenic Sidi Chahed waters captivate visitors with their serene vistas, offering a tranquil respite along the excursion route.

As travelers make their way from Fez to Volubilis and Moulay Idriss, they’ll pause to savor the breathtaking views of the Sidi Chahed waters. These peaceful waterways, surrounded by lush greenery and towering hills, provide a picturesque contrast to the ancient Roman ruins and historic towns that are the main highlights of the day’s itinerary.

It’s a chance to soak in the natural beauty of the Moroccan landscape and recharge before continuing the adventure. The Sidi Chahed waters are a welcome oasis of calm amidst the cultural exploration.

Private Transportation and Professional Driver

Complementing the scenic vistas of the Sidi Chahed waters, the excursion from Fez to Volubilis, Moulay Idriss, and Meknes is facilitated by private transportation and a professional driver, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey.

This private tour includes:

• Air-conditioned vehicle for the duration of the trip
• Pickup and drop-off at the client’s hotel or riad
• An English and French-speaking driver to provide insights and guidance
• Flexibility to accommodate the needs of the group, including infants
• Accessibility near public transportation for convenient meeting points

The professional driver’s expertise and the comfort of private transportation allow visitors to fully enjoy the captivating UNESCO World Heritage sites and historic cities on this comprehensive excursion.

Inclusions and Additional Information

This private excursion typically includes air-conditioned transportation, hotel/riad pickup and drop-off, and an English and French-speaking driver to provide insights throughout the tour.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so children must be accompanied by an adult. Infant seats are available upon request.

Most travelers can participate in this activity, which is a private tour/experience. The provider will contact the client to confirm the pickup time and location, which is near public transportation.

Infants must sit on laps during the tour.

With 25 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this excursion offers a comprehensive and enjoyable experience visiting Volubilis, Moulay Idriss, and Meknes from Fez.

Pickup Arrangements and Confirmation

We’ll contact the client to confirm the pickup time and location, which is conveniently near public transportation.

Infants must sit on laps during the tour.

The pickup arrangements for this excursion are straightforward and hassle-free:

• The driver will reach out to the client to coordinate the pickup time and location, ensuring a smooth start to the day’s adventure.
• Pickup is available from the client’s hotel or riad, making it easy to begin the tour.
• The pickup location is situated near public transportation, offering flexibility for those relying on other modes of travel.
• Infant seats are provided, accommodating families with young children.
• The driver, who’s fluent in English and French, will be there to greet the client and start the journey.

Exceptional Reviews and Accolades

The tour boasts a badge of excellence, earned through 25 glowing reviews from past participants. These reviews highlight the tour’s exceptional quality, with travelers praising the knowledgeable and friendly driver, the well-organized itinerary, and the breathtaking sights. The tour has clearly left a lasting impression on those who have experienced it.

Review Highlights
Knowledgeable Guide	★★★★★
Seamless Organization	★★★★★
Unforgettable Sights	★★★★★
Value for Money	★★★★☆
Overall Experience	★★★★★

With such positive feedback, it’s clear that this Volubilis, Moulay Idriss, and Meknes excursion is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Fez.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Request a Specific Pickup Time?

Yes, you can request a specific pickup time. The tour provider will contact you to confirm the pickup time and location, ensuring a convenient start to your private tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, many tour providers offer the option to extend the tour duration for an additional fee. This allows travelers to explore the sites more thoroughly or add additional stops to the itinerary based on their interests.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Tour?

There are no strict dress code requirements for this tour, but visitors are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Modest attire is recommended when visiting religious sites like Moulay Idriss.

Can I Bring My Own Refreshments on the Tour?

Yes, guests are typically allowed to bring their own refreshments on the tour. However, it’s important to properly dispose of any waste and refrain from littering to maintain the cleanliness of the sights visited.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

There are generally no restrictions on photography during tours. However, visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience for others. Photography may be limited in certain areas for preservation or safety reasons, so it’s best to follow the guide’s instructions.

Recap

This captivating excursion from Fez offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in Morocco’s rich history and cultural heritage.

From the well-preserved Roman ruins of Volubilis to the holy town of Moulay Idriss and the impressive monuments of Meknes, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through the country’s past and present.

The serene vistas of the Sidi Chahed waters provide a tranquil respite, making this excursion a must-do for any traveler to Fez.