Meknes Fes-meknes, Morocco Travel Guide
Meknes itself does not feature direct hiking trails, but nearby natural settings have superb opportunities.
Easier walks through olive groves and small villages. Suitable for a leisurely half-day hike. The ground consists of rolling hills.
These areas (e.g., near Azrou or Ifrane) require a longer day trip. They showcase difficult paths through cedar forests and scenic landscapes. Local guides are advisable for longer treks.
Meknes is not a main destination for adventure sports or water activities. Wildlife viewing (e.g., Barbary apes) occurs more distant in the Middle Atlas. Formal safaris are not offered.
Always inform someone of your hiking plans and carry sufficient water and supplies. Weather can change rapidly in mountainous areas.
Meknes offers unique opportunities to engage with Moroccan culture.
In the evenings, Place El Hedim transforms into a lively open-air stage with storytellers (hakawati), musicians (Gnawa, Berber), and snake charmers. A genuine cultural experience is found here.
Typically held in The third month of the year or April, this celebration brings international and local animated films to the city. Check specific schedules for participation.
Fantasia: Traditional equestrian show, popular during religious holidays and local moussem. A spectacular presentation of horsemanship. Moulay Idriss Moussem: An annual pilgrimage and festival to the holy town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, offering an unique religious and cultural event.
Show interest in local customs and traditions. A smile and simple greetings in Darija open doors to authentic interactions.
Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially performers. A small tip is appreciated as a courtesy for their time.
When shopping in the souks, prioritize buying directly from artisans. This supports traditional crafts and local families.
Meknes features pathways to relaxation and rejuvenation.
No major hot springs are directly in Meknes. Smaller, local hammams may use natural mineral water, but not in a resort style.
Meknes is not a primary destination for dedicated retreats. Some riads may have quiet spaces for personal practice. Larger cities offer more alternatives.
Meknes is not on the coast, so no beach clubs are present. Many hotels and riads, especially mid-range and luxury, feature swimming pools for guests. These are an escape that refreshes you in warmer months.
Limited dedicated live music venues outside of special events. Upscale restaurants or hotel bars may feature live traditional Moroccan music during dinner. Fewer formal theater performances for tourists in comparison to bigger cities.
Nightlife, especially nightclubs and dancing, is very limited. Alcohol consumption and associated nightlife are generally restricted to licensed hotel bars in the Ville Nouvelle. Bar districts or organized pub crawls are not a feature.
Place El Hedim is the main late-night entertainment option. It remains lively into the evening with street performers, storytellers, and food stalls. This has a family-friendly and culturally immersive evening experience.
Shopping in Meknes is a lively experience, especially in its traditional souks, where various local crafts and goods are found.
Items made of leather (bags, babouches, wallets), ceramics (pottery, tagines), textiles (rugs, blankets, scarves), spices (ras el hanout, saffron), Argan Oil, olives and olive oil, metalwork, woodwork.
Fewer dedicated luxury/boutique shops compared to Fes or Marrakech. Some higher-end artisan shops exist in the medina, or exclusive items are found in hotel boutiques.
Place El Hedim also has vendors selling souvenirs and snacks, especially in the evenings, for a different shopping atmosphere.
The souks offer a truly engaging cultural immersion. Take your time, enjoy the atmosphere, and engage with the vendors.
