You will be picked up from your centrally located hotel in Fez for a private sightseeing tour of Meknes. Set out in an air-conditioned minibus with your bilingual guide (English and French-speaking) and enjoy this day excursion from Fez.
The highlights of your tour are:
• Moulay Idriss: Named after the great grandson of prophet Mohammad and the one who brought Islam to Morocco, this small whitewashed town has a scenic location. It is the holiest town in Morocco. Perched against the slopes of rolling green hills, it offers panoramic views across to the town of Meknes. The town houses the shrine of Idriss I, who founded the Idriss dynasty in the 8th century.
• Volubilis: Continue towards the Roman ruins of Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ruins are a standing testimony to the grandeur of the former residence of King Juba II. A victory arch, an impressive basilica and spectacular mosaics make for a compelling sight.
Stop for lunch in Meknes at the Zitouna restaurant. Your menu consists of Moroccan salad, Tagine with chicken, lemons and olives, cheese of the countryside, fresh seasonal fruits, tea and pastry.
Arrive in Meknes and set out on a sightseeing tour of its famous attractions. You will be shown the following:
• Bab al Mansour: This monumental gate is one of the most beautiful gates in Morocco.
• Basin of Agdal: The stone-lined lake of Agdal was both a reservoir and a pleasure lake. It was used to water the royal gardens and amuse the favourite concubines. The basin still serves the function of being a local retreat, and families come out here frequently for picnics.
• Regional stud farm ‘Heri es Souani or the Imperial Stables: These ancient granaries are remarkable for their high-vaulted chambers with a series of storerooms.
• Méchouar: These are the impressive ramparts and walls surrounding the Royal Palace built by Moulay Ismail.
• Tomb of Moulay Ismail: The mausoleum of the most famous ruler of Meknes, this sanctuary is renowned for its healing powers. Women, in particular, flock to this holy shrine for blessings. Admire the mosaics, marble fountains, carved cedar ceilings and carpeted floors of the elegant courtyard.
• Souks: A must-see in any Moroccan town, these lively and traditional markets offer a wide range of wares from clothes, shoes, woodwork and carpets to an abundance of olives.
Your tour ends with a drop-off at your hotel or the closest drop-off point in Fez.