Day Trip to Volubilis – Moulay Idriss & Meknes From Fes

Setting out on a captivating day trip from Fes, travelers can uncover the historical treasures of Volubilis, Moulay Idriss, and Meknes. This small group tour, limited to 15 guests, offers a personalized experience with a professional driver and comfortable transportation. Delving into the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis and marveling at the architectural beauty of Meknes, the journey promises an immersive exploration of Morocco’s cultural heritage. But what secrets lie waiting in the spiritual streets of Moulay Idriss? Eager to discover more, one can’t help but wonder what other enchanting surprises this day trip has in store.

Good To Know

• This small group day trip from Fez explores the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, the picturesque town of Moulay Idriss, and the imperial city of Meknes.
• The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, guided visits to historical sites, and a lunch break.
• Highlights include the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, the Meknes Medina, and the well-preserved Roman ruins and mosaics of Volubilis.
• Travelers have ample time to explore the sites at their own pace, guided by a professional driver.
• The tour is suitable for travelers with a moderate level of fitness, but not recommended for those with certain medical conditions or accessibility needs.

Overview of the Day Trip

This day trip from Fez offers a chance to explore the historical sites of Meknes, Volubilis, and Moulay Idriss.

It’s a small group tour with a maximum of 15 travelers, providing a more personalized experience. The tour is highly rated, with a 5.0 based on 19 reviews, and 100% of travelers recommend it.

Travelers will have plenty of time to explore each site at their own pace, guided by a professional driver who handles all the logistics.

The comfortable air-conditioned vehicle ensures a pleasant travel experience, and the tour includes hotel pickup, lunch, and entrance fees.

Exploring Meknes’ Highlights

On this day trip, travelers first explore the renowned highlights of Meknes, one of Morocco’s imperial cities.

They’ll visit the famous Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, an exquisite example of Alaouite architectural style.

Next, they’ll wander through the grandiose El Hedim Square, surrounded by towering walls and gates.

The group will also discover the stunning Bab Mansour, considered one of the most beautiful monumental gates in North Africa.

Finally, they’ll step into the intricate Meknes Medina, getting lost in the labyrinth of narrow alleys and vibrant markets.

1. Visit the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, an Alaouite architectural masterpiece.
2. Explore the grandeur of El Hedim Square, surrounded by impressive walls and gates.
3. Marvel at the stunning Bab Mansour, one of the most beautiful monumental gates in North Africa.
4. Enjoy the captivating Meknes Medina, a maze of narrow alleys and lively markets.

Discovering Volubilis’ Ancient Ruins

From Meknes, the group journeys onward to the ancient Roman city of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s storied past.

Wandering through the remarkably well-preserved ruins, visitors can admire the impressive Roman architecture, including the Arch of Caracalla, the Basilica, and the intricate mosaics that adorn the floors of ancient villas.

The site’s strategic location on a hilltop provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

With ample time to explore at their own pace, travelers gain a deeper understanding of the region’s rich history and the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire in North Africa.

Visiting Moulay Idriss

After exploring the captivating ruins of Volubilis, the tour proceeds to the sacred town of Moulay Idriss.

This centuries-old pilgrimage site is revered as the burial place of Moulay Idriss I, the founder of the Idrisid dynasty and Islam in Morocco.

Visitors can:

1. Admire the striking green-and-white Moulay Idriss Mausoleum, a magnificent architectural gem.
2. Wander the charming, whitewashed streets and feel the spiritual atmosphere.
3. Climb to the top of the hill for panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.
4. Gain insight into the town’s rich history and cultural significance from the knowledgeable local guide.

This stop provides a profound contrast to the ancient Roman ruins, offering a glimpse into Morocco’s Islamic heritage and devotion.

Transportation and Logistics

The comfortable round-trip transportation from Fez is included in the tour package. An air-conditioned vehicle ensures a pleasant travel experience throughout the day. Pickup is available from selected points in Fez, providing convenience for travelers.

Pickup Options	Pickup Time
Fez Medina	8:00 AM
Fez Train Station	8:15 AM
Fez Hotel/Riad	8:30 AM
Fez City Centre	8:45 AM
Fez Airport	9:00 AM

The professional driver manages all logistics, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenic journey to Meknes, Volubilis, and Moulay Idriss.

Included Amenities and Services

The day trip includes a range of amenities and services that ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for travelers.

These include:

1. Round-trip transportation from Fez in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
2. A professional driver to handle all the logistics and navigation.
3. Hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a hassle-free start and end to the day.
4. Entrance fees to all the historical sites, as well as a delicious lunch and drinks included in the package.

With these comprehensive inclusions, travelers can focus on soaking in the rich cultural and historical sights without worrying about the practical details.

Important Considerations

While the day trip to Volubilis offers an engaging and well-organized experience, there are a few important considerations travellers should keep in mind.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and may not be suitable for those with back problems, pregnant women, or those with serious medical conditions. A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as there’s a fair amount of walking involved at the various historical sites.

Plus, infants must sit on laps, though infant seats are available. It’s important to note these restrictions to ensure the tour is a good fit for one’s needs and abilities.

Booking and Cancellation

To book the day trip to Volubilis, travelers can easily do so online through platforms such as Viator or Tripadvisor. The tour is fully refundable if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Some key booking and cancellation details include:

1. Easy online booking process with secure payment options.
2. Confirmation received instantly upon booking.
3. Free cancellation allowed up to 24 hours before the experience.
4. Penalties may apply for last-minute cancellations or no-shows.

Travelers should review the tour’s policies carefully and contact the provider with any questions or special requests prior to their trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Extend the Tour to Include Ifrane or Azrou?

Unfortunately, the day trip from Fez doesn’t typically include Ifrane or Azrou. However, you could inquire with the tour provider about the possibility of customizing the itinerary to visit those additional destinations, though it may incur an extra charge.

Will the Guide Provide a Suggested Packing List?

The guide likely won’t provide a specific packing list, but they may offer general recommendations based on the tour itinerary and expected weather conditions to help ensure travelers are comfortable throughout the day.

Are There Any Special Dress Code Requirements at the Sites?

There are no strict dress code requirements, but visitors are advised to dress modestly out of respect for the religious and cultural sites. Covering shoulders and knees is recommended for both men and women.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Specific Locations?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized. Travelers can request to visit specific locations within Meknes, Volubilis, and Moulay Idriss. The tour provider will accommodate such requests, subject to feasibility and availability.

Is It Possible to Arrange a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, it’s possible to arrange a private tour instead of a group tour. Many tour operators offer private day trips from Fez to Meknes, Volubilis, and Moulay Idriss, allowing for a more personalized experience.

The Sum Up

This captivating day trip from Fes offers a chance to explore Morocco’s rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, marvel at the architectural wonders of Meknes, and experience the spiritual ambiance of Moulay Idriss. With convenient amenities and comfortable transportation, travelers can embark on a hassle-free adventure to uncover the enchanting treasures of this remarkable region.