Meknes to Azrou
Leaving the vast site of Volubilis Roman ruins behind, we’re ready for the next section of our Morocco tour. We’re visiting the historic city of Meknes then onwards to Azrou and the mid Atlas Mountains.
Arriving in Meknes proves quite straightforward, with a relatively uncomplicated road system in comparison to some.
We’re following a parking area found on our sat nav, leading through the walls of this old city. The long straight road with high walls of terracotta tones rises up beside us. It’s a huge wall and reminder of the defensive fortifications built here which rise to 15 meters.
Busy parking area
Driving through a magnificent archway between the walls, brings us face to face with a busy parking area. We can see a few motorhomes already parked up and a chap beckoning us to drive over.
Before we know it, he jumps into a parked car and begins moving vehicles about to make room for us. After a few minutes he creates a space for us to slot between. It cost 50 MAD to park, and he reassures us that we can stay the night if we wish.
At the moment we’re unsure what we’re doing, but are grateful for the offer. There’s a good police presence, like most places in Morocco and being in the centre of the city is super convenient.
In search of the Medina
There’s not time to waste, so we soon walking from the campervan in search of the Medina area. Initially, we have a little bit of confusion, to say the least, because for some reason, we just can’t find our way, let alone the entrance to the Medina.
Perhaps, we haven’t done enough homework for Meknes, but whatever the reason, it’s proving difficult for our weary minds to navigate. Our lack of sense of direction isn’t helped by cold weather and heavy rain. Unfortunately, today is a grim weather day, but we’re happy to continue and take a look around.
Heading through one of the 9 huge gates of the magnificent Meknes ramparts brings us into a narrow alley. It’s a maize in true form, with buildings, and side alleys branching off. We’ve no idea if we’re heading in the right direction but are soon put on track by a local coming towards us.
With hand signals directing us in the opposite way to which we’re walking, we find ourselves turning round and heading back to where we began!
Medina awaits
Eventually, we come across horse and carriages lined up in the middle of a large road. Their owners look out for passing tourists, ready for rides through the historic centre. Unfortunately, whether it’s the rain or time of year, there’s few people around.
Speaking of time of year, we’re here in late March 2024 and we’re finding it quiet. Morocco for motorhome travel is more of a Winter destination, with a warmer climate and unforgettable landscapes.
Back to our search for the Medina and finally we have success! Entering into a narrow, dark, busy alleyway brings us into the heart of the labyrinth of stalls.
The Medina of this Imperial city is a bustling area selling anything and everything imaginable. From local crafts to clothes, there’s a total mix of goods on offer.
As the rain seeps through the narrow alleys, stall holders attempt to sell us their offerings. Emerging into a large open square, the stalls continue outside, before opening out onto another huge area with yet more stalls.
By now we’re cold and wet and not really feeling the shopping vibe. We prefer the Medina of Chefchaouen but maybe it’s just the weather today.
Driving South – Meknes to Azrou
After a couple of hours exploring Meknes, we decide to continue our journey, driving South to Azrou.
It’s absolutely pouring down on the drive to Azrou, which sits at an elevation of 3950 feet. It’s taken about an hour and 20 minutes to reach here from Meknes, but now there’s snow falling.
On the outskirts of town we find Camping Amazigh where we pull in for a night of rest and shelter.
The owners come to meet us at the entrance, as usual we’ve just turned up and receive a warm welcome.
We’re told to find a place and come back in the morning to pay. With this, we choose a grassy area between blossom trees and settle in for the night.
It’s a popular campsite, so we’re not alone. Possibly because this is also a transit route from North and South and good resting place.
Barbary Apes
The morning sees us rise early. A basic toilet block with showers heated by fire offer a piping hot morning shower.
Leaving the campsite behind after paying the 65 MAD fee (about £6.50) brings our first sighting of Barbary Apes.
No sooner have we began our drive through the hilly, Ifrane forest roads and there on the roadside we spot 3 Barbary Apes.
Unfortunately, it takes us a couple of minutes to be able to pull over and stop to take a look. By this time, the Apes are gone and we haven’t even taken a photo!
Also known as Moroccon Raissani monkey’s, these inquisitive apes are just delightful and Azrou is the place to see them. Just a little further along the road, we spot a few more Apes, with tourists from nearby minibuses watching them play.
Haggling for goods – Meknes to Azrou
By now, we have a local seller showing us his handmade crafts through the cab window with various goods on offer. From hand carved bowls to fossils, there’s much on show.
We’re new to the haggling, but somehow do a deal on a fruit bowl! It’s a beautiful piece of craftwork and we’re happy with the purchase!
Now as snow falls again, we must continue onwards. As the mid Atlas Mountains bring the start of different landscapes, our Morocco adventure gathers pace towards the desert. We’re hoping to leave the snowy weather behind for warmer temperatures and a supermarket would be good too!
We think the next big town South may have a supermarket, so our overnight stay will also double up as a re-stock stop. Let’s hope we’re successful and fully stocked up, in preparation for the long road to the desert, otherwise we’ll be on rations for some time to come!
