Travel back in time on this full-day excursion from Fez that immerses you in Morocco's rich history. Discover the grandeur of Meknes, the most tranquil of the four imperial cities, and then step back 2,000 years to stroll through the impressive Roman ruins of Volubilis. It's a day of contrasts, from the opulence of a sultan to the legacy of the Roman Empire.
Highlights
- Explore Meknes, Morocco's "Versailles", a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Admire the monumental Bab Mansour gate, one of the most beautiful in the world.
- Visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail and the Royal Granaries of Heri es-Souani.
- Stroll through the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, an exceptionally well-preserved archaeological site.
- Marvel at spectacular mosaics, temples, and the triumphal arch of Caracalla.
- Enjoy the rural landscapes of Morocco during the journey.
Detailed Itinerary
The excursion begins in the morning with pickup from your hotel in Fez. We'll head west in a comfortable journey of approximately one hour to reach Meknes.
We'll start our visit in Meknes, the capital of Morocco under the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail. We'll be amazed by the grandeur of Bab Mansour, the largest and most impressive gate in Morocco. We'll explore the medina, visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and discover the incredible engineering of Heri es-Souani, the massive royal granaries and stables that could accommodate 12,000 horses.
After visiting Meknes and a break for lunch, we'll head to the nearby Roman ruins of Volubilis. This UNESCO site is Morocco's largest and most important Roman archaeological site. You'll have free time to explore at your own pace, walking along the Decumanus Maximus, admiring the impressive mosaics that tell stories of classical mythology, and taking photos of the imposing Triumphal Arch.
In the late afternoon, after a day filled with history and culture, we'll embark on the journey back to Fez, where we'll drop you off at your accommodation.
What's Included
- Round-trip transportation from your hotel in Fez in an air-conditioned vehicle.
- Spanish-speaking driver.
- Photo stops.
What's Not Included
- Lunch and drinks.
- Entrance fees to monuments in Meknes and Volubilis.
- Local guide at the sites (optional, can be hired on-site).
- Tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to visit Volubilis? Typically, 1.5 to 2 hours is sufficient time to explore the main site at a leisurely pace.
Is a guide necessary in Volubilis? Not mandatory, but highly recommended to understand the site's history and the significance of the mosaics. You can hire an official guide at the entrance.
What type of clothing should I wear? Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially in Volubilis. Wear comfortable clothing and don't forget sunscreen and a hat, as there is little shade in the ruins.
