Fes The Mediterranean Coast And The Rif, Morocco Travel Guide
While Fes is an urban center, opportunities for outdoor activities in its vicinity.
Limited within Fes city limits. Nearby Middle Atlas Mountains (Ifrane, Azrou, Bhalil) have moderate hiking and nature walks as day trips.
A day trip to Azrou forest in the Middle Atlas Mountains has a chance to see Barbary macaques in their natural habitat.
Water sports and adventure sports like rock climbing or white-water rafting are not applicable to Fes. These are more common in other Moroccan regions.
When planning excursions outside Fes, use reputable tour operators. Ensure all safety equipment and guides meet professional standards.
Engage directly with Moroccan culture through hands-on experiences and performances.
Gnawa Music: A spiritual and rhythmic style of music with West African roots, often at cultural centers like Café Clock.
Some local NGOs or tour operators visits to local homes or community projects for cultural exchange.
Learn basic Moroccan Arabic (Darija) phrases through casual interactions at your riad or with guides.
An internationally renowned annual festival, typically held in May or June. It features spiritual music and arts from around the world, drawing a diverse audience.
Beyond the Sacred Music Festival, local religious festivals and public holidays unique cultural insights and lively street celebrations. Check the Moroccan holiday calendar.
While formal homestays are less common, many riads a personal, family-like atmosphere. Opportunities for direct cultural exchange are sometimes arranged.
Find opportunities for rest and rejuvenation in Fes, blending traditional practices with modern comforts.
You find local herbalists (attarine) in the medina who sell traditional remedies, essential oils, and natural products.
Fes is inland, so no beaches. Some larger hotels (mostly in the Ville Nouvelle) and luxury riads have swimming pools, a refreshing escape during warmer months.
Many restaurants fresh, healthy Moroccan cuisine with abundant vegetables and lean meats, supporting wellness.
Prioritize rest and stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Drink plenty of sealed bottled water.
Wear comfortable walking shoes. The medina involves extensive walking on uneven surfaces and many steps.
Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to shield from the sun, notably during midday exploration.
Fes's nightlife is generally subdued and centered around cultural experiences or hotel venues.
Nightlife in Fes is very limited in terms of traditional nightclubs or dance venues. Most late-night entertainment is within hotel bars.
Restaurants in the medina typically close by 10-11 PM. Some cafes in the Ville Nouvelle stay open later, a relaxed environment for conversation.
Fes does not have designated bar districts or organized pub crawls. Alcohol availability is generally limited to larger hotels and some upscale restaurants.
When navigating the medina at night, stick to well-lit main paths or arrange for your riad to meet you at the closest accessible gate.
