Bustling street scene in central Meknes

Meknes, also known as the "Versailles of Morocco", provides visitors and residents intimate views of the unique blend of Islamic and European influences. While Meknes' population is 713,609, the city has a rather small feel to it and still remains easy to navigate by foot. Unlike other Moroccan cities such as Marrakech, Casablanca, Fes, and Rabat, Meknes sees very few tourists, providing study abroad students a better opportunity to interact with locals and experience an authentic Moroccan lifestyle. Located in the rich plains below the Middle Atlas Mountains, any culinary experience in Meknes will be crafted from the freshest ingredients. As a result of this agricultural abundance, the grains, olives, wines, and citrus fruit native to this region remain the economic stronghold of Meknes.

At the base of the Middle Atlas Mountains, the city of Meknes (pop. 713,609) is situated in a major Moroccan agricultural region atop hills offering breathtaking views of rolling hills and green plains. As a whole, the country has the most diverse geography in North Africa. Beautiful beaches, snow-capped mountains, and seemingly endless desert offer a wide variety of scenic landscapes and exciting opportunities for outdoor adventure.

The climate of Morocco mirrors the geographic diversity spanning the country. At 1,890 feet above sea level in the north-central region Morocco, the towering Middle Atlas Mountains resting in the distance greatly influence the climate of Meknes. Rainfall is highest in this region, but summers are dry and warm.