Excursión de un Día desde Fez a Meknes y Volubilis, Marruecos

Summary Book this fascinating full-day excursion from Fez that takes you through Morocco’s rich historical and cultural heritage, visiting both the imperial city of Meknes and the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. The trip includes a stop at the sacred town of Moulay Idriss, located on Mount Zerhoun, before exploring the beautifully preserved remains of Volubilis, where Roman history comes to life. Then, continue on to Meknes, a city that rose to greatness under the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail, where its imposing gates, palaces, and bustling streets reveal the stories of its royal past. This excursion combines history, archaeology, and authentic Moroccan culture for a day full of discovery and wonder.

• Travel through the picturesque Moroccan countryside, including the fertile plains and foothills of the Rif Mountains.
• Explore Moulay Idriss, a sacred pilgrimage town with breathtaking views from the hillside.
• Walk among the ancient ruins of Volubilis, admiring Roman arches, temples, and mosaics.
• Discover Meknes, known as the “Versailles of Morocco,” with its imposing gates, palaces, and ramparts.
• Visit iconic sites such as the Mausoleum of Sultan Moulay Ismail and the royal stables.
• Stroll through the lively traditional souks of Meknes for an authentic local experience.

Your day begins early with pickup at your accommodation in Fez, starting a journey westward through the most picturesque landscapes of northern Morocco. As the vehicle winds its way through rolling hills, vast olive groves, and traditional villages, you will enjoy unique views of the fertile plains and majestic foothills of the Rif Mountains. This journey offers an authentic glimpse into rural Moroccan life, where the tranquil pace and changing colors of the landscape herald the cultural richness of the region.

The first stop will be at Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, considered one of the most sacred villages in Morocco. Perched on the slopes of Mount Zerhoun, this spiritual enclave was founded by Moulay Idriss I, a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad and founder of the country’s first Islamic dynasty. Its narrow alleys and whitewashed houses slide down the mountain, offering natural viewpoints with panoramic views over the surrounding valleys. Although the mausoleum of Moulay Idriss is only open to Muslims, the mystical atmosphere of the village, its hospitality, and its charming squares make it an essential stop for understanding the spiritual roots of modern Morocco.

Continuing along the route, you will arrive at Volubilis, an archaeological gem declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This ancient Roman settlement, excellently preserved, was one of the most important in North Africa. Here you can stroll among majestic columns, temples dedicated to the gods, and triumphal arches that evoke the grandeur of Rome. The mosaics decorating the floors, with scenes of Hercules, Venus, and Dionysus, still retain their color and detail, testimony to the artistic refinement of the time. A local guide can accompany you to reveal the secrets of this lost city, its construction techniques, and its relevance in Mediterranean trade.

The tour continues to Meknes, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities and capital under the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century. Known as the “Moroccan Versailles,” Meknes surprises visitors with its balance between historical splendor and peaceful atmosphere. Its medina, less chaotic than that of Fez, invites you to lose yourself among artisan souks, ancient monumental gates, and hidden courtyards. Among its gems are the Bab Mansour Gate, considered one of the most beautiful in Morocco, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, open to visitors of all faiths, and the Royal Stables, where thousands of the sultan’s horses were housed. You can also stroll through the gardens of the Agdal Reservoir, a haven of peace that reflects the grandeur of the hydraulic architecture of the time.

As evening falls, you will begin your return journey to Fez, enjoying the sunset over the golden fields and small villages that dot the horizon. This day trip from Fez to Meknes and Volubilis concludes with a sense of deep connection to Morocco’s history, having traveled through centuries of civilization in a single day, from imperial Rome to the Alawite dynasty, in a setting of incomparable natural beauty.