• Meknes Medina - The day starts after breakfast when the operator picks you up from your hotel or riad in Fes at 10 am. However, Morocco trip desert tours are flexible and can accommodate a different time if that suits you better. Just let them know your preference!

The journey begins with a short drive to the sacred town of Moulay Idriss, a picturesque location perched on the edge of Mount Zerhon, offering breathtaking views of the Moroccan landscape, including Volubilis. This town is a significant pilgrimage site for Muslims, as visiting Moulay Idriss five times in a lifetime is considered equivalent to the Hajj in Mecca for those who cannot afford the journey. The village is charming, with many delightful souks to explore, although only Muslims may enter the tomb of Idris I of the Idrisid dynasty. Idris I ruled from 788 to 791 AD and is credited with converting Morocco to Islam. He was the great-great-great-grandson of Islam’s Prophet Mohammed.

Next, a short drive takes you to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, known as Ouallili, meaning laurel flower in the Berber language. Here, you can freely explore the well-preserved remains of the town, including the Triumphal Arch, baths, palaces, and many beautiful mosaics depicting classical themes from Roman mythology. As one of the most significant Roman sites in North Africa, Volubilis holds UNESCO World Heritage Status. It is Volubilis that makes Meknes a popular tourist destination and one of Morocco’s ‘must-see’ attractions.

The tour continues to the Imperial city of Meknes, founded as a military camp in the 11th century and now known as “the Versailles of Morocco” due to its lavish design. This design was created to emulate the royal palaces of Paris and Arabia during the 17th century by Sultan Moulay Ismail, who made it his capital.

In its prime, Meknes was encircled by 45 km of walls in three defensive rings, had twenty city gates, and protected over fifty palaces. Here, you will witness impressive crenellated battlements, gigantic city gates adorned with Islamic art and Roman marble pillars taken from Volubilis, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the royal palace of Dal El Makhzen with its Royal Stables, the beautiful Agdal reservoir, and the nearby granaries and subterranean prison. Meknes exudes an old-fashioned charm and quaintness, offering a more relaxed atmosphere than Fes and is surrounded by stunning countryside, olive groves, and vineyards. The local souks are highly recommended for shopping, as they are rich, varied, and often more affordable than those in Fes.

• Air-conditioned vehicles for a comfortable journey

• Tea and coffee

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.