Traveling to Morocco with kids is a magical journey filled with vibrant colors, fragrant spices, and unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re wandering through bustling souks, riding camels across the Sahara, or relaxing by the Atlantic coast, family travel in Morocco offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and warm hospitality.
This family guide to Morocco will help you plan the perfect trip — with tips on the best destinations for kids, when to visit, what to pack, safety advice, and sample itineraries.
Why Morocco is Perfect for a Family Vacation
Morocco offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and hospitality that makes it an exceptional choice for a family holiday.
- A Feast for the Senses: From the vibrant colors of hand-woven carpets and lanterns in the souks to the fragrant spices and sizzling street food, Morocco is a sensory delight that will captivate both children and adults.
- Adventures Straight Out of a Storybook: With landscapes that evoke tales of Aladdin and Arabian nights, children can ride camels across golden dunes, explore ancient kasbahs, and sleep under the stars in the Sahara.
- Incredibly Welcoming to Children: Moroccan culture cherishes children, and you’ll find that traveling with your kids opens doors to warm interactions and genuine hospitality from the locals.
- Educational and Eye-Opening: A trip to Morocco is a living classroom. Kids can learn about bartering in the markets, discover the history of Roman ruins at Volubilis, and experience the traditions of Berber communities in the Atlas Mountains.
- Great Value for Money: Compared to many other destinations, Morocco offers excellent value, allowing families to enjoy unique experiences and comfortable accommodations without breaking the bank.
Best Time to Visit Morocco with Kids
Choosing the right time to visit is key to a comfortable family trip. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are generally considered the best times, offering pleasant temperatures perfect for exploring cities and enjoying outdoor activities.
- Spring (March-May): This is an ideal time to visit, with pleasant sunny days and blooming landscapes. It’s perfect for exploring cities and hiking in the mountains.
- Summer (June-August): The heat, especially in inland cities like Marrakech, can be intense. If you travel during these months, focus on cooler coastal cities like Essaouira or book accommodations with a pool.
- Autumn (September-October): Similar to spring, the weather is warm and sunny, making it another excellent season for a family holiday.
- Winter (November-February): While southern Morocco remains mild, the mountains can be quite cold with a chance of snow. This season is less crowded, but be sure to pack layers.
Top 5 Family-Friendly Destinations in Morocco
Marrakech: The Vibrant Heartbeat
Marrakech is a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and smells that will enchant the whole family.
- Navigating the Djemaa el-Fna with kids: This famous square comes alive in the late afternoon with storytellers, musicians, and snake charmers.
- Escaping to the Jardin Majorelle: These stunning botanical gardens, with their vibrant blue accents, offer a peaceful escape from the city bustle and plenty of space for kids to roam.
- Taking a family cooking class: Learn the secrets of Moroccan cuisine together. It’s a fun, hands-on experience for all ages.
- Relaxing by a hotel pool: Many riads and hotels offer pools, providing a perfect way to cool off after a day of exploring.
Essaouira: The Coastal Breeze
Aptly nicknamed the “Windy City,” Essaouira is a world-class paradise for windsurfers and kitesurfers, offering a stunning spectacle on the water. Yet, beyond this energetic coastal scene, the city itself provides a more relaxed, bohemian vibe compared to Marrakech, making it a perfect family escape with the best of both worlds.
- A Peaceful Counterpoint: The car-free medina offers a laid-back atmosphere that feels like a peaceful haven compared to the lively beach, making it an incredibly easy and safe place to explore with children.
- Sandcastles and a Sky Full of Kites: The wide, sandy beach is perfect for building sandcastles while watching the mesmerizing ballet of dozens of colorful kites dancing in the sky. Don’t forget to also watch the traditional blue fishing boats coming into the bustling port.
- Learn to Surf Together: Beyond the kites, Essaouira’s bay has gentler waves perfect for learning to surf. Numerous schools operate year-round, offering lessons for every skill level, from complete beginners (including kids) to advanced riders. It’s a fantastic way for older kids and teens to build confidence and have an unforgettable adventure on the water.
- Spotting the “Game of Thrones” locations: Older kids and fans of the show will love recognizing the city’s ramparts from the series.
- Camel or horse riding on the beach: A sunset ride along the coast, with the silhouettes of kites in the distance, is a magical experience for the whole family.
The Sahara Desert: A Night Under the Stars
No trip to Morocco is complete without an adventure into the desert.
- Logistics of the trip: Most desert tours start from Marrakech and involve a multi-day journey with stops at stunning locations like Aït Benhaddou.
- The magic of the desert: The experience includes a sunset camel trek across the dunes, an overnight stay in a traditional Berber or luxury “glamping” tent, and listening to local music around a campfire. Stargazing in the clear desert sky is an unforgettable sight.
Fes: A Journey Back in Time
Fes is home to the world’s largest car-free urban area and feels like stepping into another century.
- Navigating the maze-like medina: Getting lost in the thousands of alleyways is part of the adventure. A local guide is highly recommended to help you navigate and discover hidden gems.
- Visiting the tanneries: Witness the ancient process of dyeing leather. Be sure to accept the sprig of mint offered to help with the strong smell!
- Discovering hidden courtyards and madrasas: The city is full of beautiful Islamic schools and serene courtyards that offer a glimpse into its rich history.
The Atlas Mountains: Nature’s Playground
Escape the city and explore the stunning natural beauty of the Atlas Mountains.
- Gentle family hikes: There are numerous trails suitable for families, offering breathtaking views and fresh mountain air. The Imlil to Aroumd trek is a great option for beginners.
- Visiting a traditional Berber village: Gain insight into the lives of the local Berber people, known for their warm hospitality.
- Having lunch with a local family: This is a wonderful opportunity for a genuine cultural exchange and to taste authentic home-cooked food.
Essential Tips for Your Moroccan Family Adventure
Health & Safety: Staying Happy and Healthy
Morocco is generally a safe country for families, with a visible police presence in tourist areas. However, it’s always wise to take standard precautions.
- Water and Food: Stick to bottled water and be cautious with street food. A good rule of thumb is to only eat food that is cooked fresh in front of you, and to “cook it, peel it, or forget it.”
- First-Aid Kit: Pack a basic first-aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
- Navigating the Medinas: The narrow streets can have mopeds zipping through, so keep a close eye on young children. A baby carrier can be more practical than a stroller in these crowded spaces.
What to Pack for a Family Trip to Morocco
Packing layers is key, as temperatures can vary significantly between day and night and across different regions.
- Clothing: Lightweight, loose-fitting clothes made of cotton or linen are ideal. Pack long-sleeved shirts, trousers, or maxi skirts for visiting religious sites.
- Sun Protection: Sun hats, sunglasses, and high-factor sunscreen are essential.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the medinas.
- For Toddlers: While major cities have supermarkets that sell diapers and baby food, the selection may be limited. It’s a good idea to bring your own supply if you have a preferred brand.
Getting Around: From Grand Taxis to Trains
- Private Driver: For families, hiring a private driver and vehicle is often the most convenient and comfortable way to travel between cities.
- Trains: Trains are a reliable option for traveling between major cities like Casablanca, Fes, and Marrakech.
- Taxis: Use “petit taxis” for short distances within cities and agree on a price beforehand or insist on using the meter. “Grand taxis” are used for longer routes between towns.
Food in Morocco: A Culinary Adventure for All Ages
Moroccan cuisine is flavorful but generally not spicy, making it appealing to many children.
- Kid-Friendly Dishes: Don’t miss out on chicken tagine with lemon and olives, kefta (meatball) tagine, couscous with vegetables, and grilled meats (brochettes).
- Snacks and Sweets: Kids will love the flaky pancakes (msemen), sweet pastries like gazelle horns, and the abundance of freshly squeezed orange juice available everywhere.
- Picky Eaters: The variety of breads, grilled meats, and fresh fruits provides plenty of options for even the fussiest eaters.
Accommodation: Where to Stay with Your Family
- Riads: Staying in a riad, a traditional Moroccan house with an interior courtyard, is a magical experience. Many are family-friendly and have pools, which are a big plus for kids.
- Hotels: Larger, modern hotels are also widely available and often feature amenities like kids’ clubs and large swimming pools.
Sample Morocco Family Itineraries
The 7-Day Imperial Cities & Coast Express
- Day 1-2: Marrakech. Explore the Djemaa el-Fna, souks, and Jardin Majorelle.
- Day 3: Day trip to the Atlas Mountains. Hike in the Ourika Valley and visit a Berber village.
- Day 4-5: Essaouira. Relax by the coast, explore the ramparts, and enjoy the beach.
- Day 6: Travel to Fes. Take a scenic train ride.
- Day 7: Fes. Guided tour of the medina and departure.
The 14-Day Grand Moroccan Adventure
- Day 1-3: Marrakech. Immerse yourselves in the Red City with a cooking class and a visit to Bahia Palace.
- Day 4-5: Atlas Mountains. Stay overnight in a guesthouse in Imlil and enjoy family-friendly treks.
- Day 6-8: Sahara Desert. Journey through Ouarzazate and Aït Benhaddou, then enjoy a camel trek and a night in a desert camp in Merzouga.
- Day 9-10: Fes. Discover the ancient medina, tanneries, and take a pottery workshop.
- Day 11: Chefchaouen. Travel to the “Blue City” and explore its charming, colorful streets.
- Day 12-13: Essaouira. Drive to the coast for relaxation, surfing lessons, and fresh seafood.
- Day 14: Departure from Marrakech or Casablanca.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Morocco a safe country for families with young children?
Yes, Morocco is considered a very safe and welcoming destination for families. Moroccans are known for their hospitality and love for children. Taking normal travel precautions is advised.
What should my children and I wear in Morocco?
It’s best to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is recommended for both adults and children. In resort areas, swimwear is perfectly acceptable.
Do I need to speak French or Arabic?
While Arabic and French are the official languages, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, especially in major cities. Learning a few basic Arabic words like “Shukran” (Thank you) will be appreciated.
Can I find diapers and baby food in Morocco?
Yes, you can find diapers, wipes, and some international brands of baby food in larger supermarkets and pharmacies in the main cities. However, if your child has specific needs or brand preferences, it’s best to bring your own supply.
A Journey to Remember
A family trip to Morocco is more than just a vacation; it’s an adventure that will broaden horizons and create a treasure trove of shared memories. From the bustling energy of the cities to the profound silence of the desert, Morocco offers an unforgettable experience for every member of the family.
Do you have any questions about planning your trip to Morocco? Ask them in the comments below