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Getting Around Meknes

Getting Around Meknes

Meknes Fes-meknes, Morocco Travel Guide

Public Bus System

City Bus Meknes operates the local bus network. These motorcoaches offer an affordable way to travel, mainly connecting areas within the new city (Ville Nouvelle) and linking to points just outside the medina walls.

They see extensive daily use by locals. Bus routes can be challenging for tourists to figure out, as formal, easily accessible route maps are not always clear.

Bus Details

  • Tickets are bought directly on board from the driver or conductor.
  • Fares are low, typically a few dirhams (e.g., 4-6 MAD) per ride.
  • Operate from early morning (~6 AM) until late evening (~9-10 PM).
  • Expect crowds, especially during peak morning and late afternoon commute hours.

Route Hubs

The bus station near the Central Market in Ville Nouvelle acts as a hub for many routes.

No Passes

No specific tourist passes or multi-day options are available for the area's bus service system.

Accessibility

Buses are generally not designed for wheelchair accessibility. Medina terrain also poses challenges.

Bus Navigation Tips

Local Assistance
  • Ask locals or your hotel/riad staff for specific bus numbers and directions.
  • They can frequently tell you which bus to take and where to get off.
  • Be ready for less predictable schedules than in some Western cities.
Alternative Options
  • For tourists, petit taxis are often a more convenient and cost-effective option for shorter city distances.
  • Taxis have direct service and are easy to hail.
  • On foot is the best way to explore the medina.

Licensed Taxi Fares & Payment

Petit Taxis

Small, light blue sedans. Operate within city limits. Should use a meter. Fares start around 7 MAD (day).

Grand Taxis

Larger, older Mercedes. For inter-city or longer shared routes. Found at designated ranks.

Payment

Cash only for all taxis. Carry small denominations for simpler transactions and tipping.

Hailing

Simply wave your hand on the a thoroughfare for petit taxis. Large taxis also hailable or at ranks.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing Specifics

Taxis present a convenient and widely used method of transport in Meknes, giving flexibility and direct service. Understand the different types and their operations.

Fare Guidelines

  • Petit Taxis: Short rides 7-20 MAD. Insist on meter or agree on fare before starting.
  • Large Taxis (Shared): Fixed price per person for specific routes. Wait for car to fill.
  • Collective Taxis (Private): Negotiate full fare before starting, especially for day trips.
  • Example: Private round trip to Volubilis/Moulay Idriss ~200-300 MAD.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

  • Careem operates in some Meknes parts, but coverage might be limited. Uber is not active.
  • Petit Taxis: Generally safe; main concern is overcharging without meter.
  • Collective Taxis: Generally safe; agree on price beforehand for private hires.
  • Ride-sharing apps give price transparency and driver tracking.

Car Rental Tips

  • Requirements: National driver's license, IDP, major credit card.
  • Book in advance, especially during peak season, for better rates and availability.
  • Major highways are good, but secondary roads vary. Avoid night driving.
  • Motorcycle/scooter rentals are not as common for visitors in Meknes.
  • Medina parking is restricted; use paid lots outside walls.
  • Ensure comprehensive insurance coverage for your rental vehicle.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian Areas

Meknes medina is pedestrianized, best explored on foot for its alleys and squares. Ville Nouvelle also good for walking.

Walking Tours

Hiring an official local guide for the medina is highly recommended for historical context and navigation.

Cycling Notes

Limited dedicated bicycle infrastructure in Meknes; generally not recommended for casual city touring.

Specialized Transportation

Meknes does not typically feature the unique or highly specialized transportation methods found in some other regions or very large tourist cities.

No Tour Buses

  • Meknes lacks specific hop-on-hop-off tour buses.
  • For group excursions or day trips, tour operators arrange private automobiles or vans.
  • No boat taxis or water transportation available.
  • The urban area is inland and has no significant waterways for public transport.

Accessibility Services

  • Meknes medina poses significant challenges for travelers with mobility needs.
  • Uneven cobblestones, narrow alleys, and numerous stairs make wheelchair navigation difficult.
  • Private transfers or hired vehicles are the most viable options outside the medina.
  • Research properties for accessibility features, though these are uncommon in traditional riads.

Unique Local Transport

No Cable Cars

Meknes does not feature cable cars, funiculars, or similar systems.

Focus on traditional transport.

No Tuk-Tuks

Tuk-tuks or jeepneys, found in some other countries, are not used here.

Taxis are the main method.

No River Transport

The city's rivers are not navigable for public or tourist transport.

Land-based movement is standard.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Medina Exploration
  • The medina is largely pedestrianized and best explored on foot.
  • Its narrow, winding alleys and hidden squares invite endless discovery.
  • Areas around Bab Mansour and Place El Hedim are for pedestrians hubs.
Guided vs. Self-Guided
  • Official local guides offer historical context and navigation assistance.
  • Self-guided tours are possible with good maps, but getting lost is easy.
  • Be prepared for touts; politely but firmly decline unwanted offers.

Pedestrian Safety Warnings

  • Medina alleys can be very crowded; be aware of your belongings.
  • Some areas appear less welcoming or poorly lit after dark.
  • Stick to well-trafficked routes if walking at night.
  • Bicycles and scooters are not suitable for busy city touring.
  • Observe local driving habits if cycling on roads outside medina.
  • Be mindful of crowded intersections and narrow passages.
  • Always use caution when walking near traffic or in busy areas.
  • Consider your comfort level for navigation in complex, crowded spaces.

Exploring on Foot

Walking truly gives the best way to experience Meknes's historic heart. Allow to yourself wander and discover hidden gems, but always keep your surroundings in mind.

For destinations further afield, taxis offer a good balance of cost and convenience.