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How to Get to Meknes

How to Get to Meknes

Meknes Fes-meknes, Morocco Travel Guide

Air Travel Options

Major Airports & Airlines

Fes–Saïs Airport (FEZ) is closest, about 60 km northeast. Rabat–Salé Airport (RBA) is roughly 150 km west. Mohammed V International Airport (CMN) in Casablanca, 230 km southwest, is the largest hub.

Airline Connections

  • FEZ: Low-cost carriers like Ryanair, Air Arabia Maroc, Royal Air Maroc, connecting to Europe.
  • RBA: Similar airlines, also connecting to European cities.
  • CMN: Royal Air Maroc and major foreign carriers connect worldwide.

Airport Transfers to Meknes

Various options exist for travel from from airports to Meknes, balancing cost and convenience. Consider your arrival time and group size.

Transfer Methods

  • From FEZ: Grand Taxi (200-300 MAD private) or shuttle/taxi to Fes train station then train to Meknes.
  • From RBA: Airport shuttle to Salé/Rabat train station, then train to Meknes.
  • From CMN: Direct train service to Meknes, typically with a change at Casablanca Voyageurs.

Seasonal Flight Pricing

Flight prices increase during peak tourist seasons (Spring, Autumn) and major holidays.

Airport Facilities

FEZ and RBA offer basic facilities. CMN, Morocco's largest, offers extensive services including restaurants, lounges, and duty-free shopping.

Direct Flight Availability

Direct flights from North America/Asia typically land at CMN. FEZ/RBA mainly serve direct flights from European cities.

Train Connections & Services

Major Routes from Meknes

  • To Fes: Frequent trains, ~30-40 minutes journey.
  • To Rabat: Regular service, ~1 hour 30 minutes.
  • To Casablanca: Frequent trains, ~2 hours 30 minutes.
  • To Marrakech: Several direct trains daily, ~6-7 hours.

Train Classes & Booking

  • Two classes: First Class (spacious, reserved), Second Class (unreserved, might be busy).
  • Purchase tickets at stops or in advance via ONCF website.
  • First Class booking a day or two ahead is wise during busy times.
  • ONCF operates a modern and efficient national train network.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Major Companies

CTM and Supratours are the most reputable companies, offering comfortable, air-conditioned buses with fixed schedules.

Bus Stations

Meknes has a primary bus station (Gare Routière) outside the medina, serving all long-distance routes.

Routes & Accessibility

Buses connect Meknes to virtually all major cities and towns across Morocco, even those not reached by train.

Self-Driving & Sea Travel

Car Rental Information

For independence, consider renting a car. International chains operate at airports and in major cities; local agencies also exist.

Rental Needs

  • Valid national driver's license and International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Major credit card for security deposit. Drivers typically 21+ years old.
  • Comprehensive insurance coverage is important.

Road Conditions & Safety

Major highways are well-maintained toll roads. Secondary roads vary. Driving can be aggressive with erratic behavior and pedestrians/animals on roads.

Driving Safely

  • Avoid driving at night, especially on rural or unlit roads.
  • Be aware of speed cameras and police checkpoints.
  • Keep all your driving documents readily available.

Sea Arrivals to Morocco

Meknes is an inland city, with no direct sea or a way to the river for international travel. Major ferry docks are on the coast.

Ferry Ports

  • Tangier Med, Tangier Ville, Nador, and Al Hoceima connect to Spain, France, Italy.
  • Immigration takes place on board or at the port terminal.
  • From the ports, use land transportation (train/bus) to reach Meknes.

Departure Information

Plan your departure to allow enough time for all procedures, whether by air or land. No specific exit fees are levied directly on departing tourists.

Departure Timing

  • Airports: Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights for check-in, security, immigration.
  • Train/Bus Stations: Arrive at least 30-45 minutes before departure.
  • Have all travel documents readily accessible before getting to your departure point.

Border Crossing Info

  • Morocco shares land borders with Algeria (currently closed) and Mauritania (far south).
  • For Europe arrivals, main land/sea entry points are via ferry services connecting Spain to Tangier.
  • Immigration for ferry arrivals typically happens on board or at the port terminal.
  • No significant river transportation options for tourism within Meknes.
  • Always check current border status for any country you plan to cross.
  • This section generally relates to overland entry, not specifically Meknes.

Departure Facilities

Airport Amenities

Facilities for departing travelers at airports are similar to those for arriving passengers, including cafes and shops.

Airport Offerings

  • Cafes, small shops, and restrooms are standard.
  • Larger airports (CMN) have more extensive duty-free options plus lounges.
  • Restroom facilities are available at all departure points.

Station Amenities

Train and bus stations also provide basic services for travelers awaiting departure, prioritizing convenience.

Station Offerings

  • Small kiosks for snacks and drinks.
  • Cafes for refreshments.
  • Restrooms.

No Exit Fees

Morocco does not levy specific exit fees or taxes directly on departing tourists; these are typically an element of your ticket price.

Airport Time

Allow 2-3 hours for international flights. Consider extra time if returning a rental car.

Station Time

For train or long-distance bus schedules, arrive at least 30-45 minutes before scheduled departure.

Smooth Departure

Verify your flight or train status before heading to the airport or station. Keep all travel documents accessible to expedite check-in and security processes.