Are you looking for the perfect family vacation destination that offers a wonderful mixture of culture and relaxation? If so, consider a trip to Morocco. With its stunning mountain ranges, sweeping desert views, and world-famous cities, Morocco has something to offer everyone in the family.
Morocco is a country located in North Africa on the Atlantic Ocean. It is home to an incredible variety of historic sites, ancient monuments, and beautiful landscapes that are sure to captivate kids and adults alike while creating lasting memories. From trekking through the Sahara Desert to exploring winding souks and vibrant medinas across the country’s imperial cities—including Marrakech, Fes, Rabat, and Meknes—there’s no shortage of things for families to experience here.
Morocco is an ideal holiday destination for families seeking fun activities together amidst foreign culture and scenery. In this article we will discuss why Morocco makes a great family holiday destination, some of the most exciting activities that are available here, what kind of accommodation options there are available for families, how to stay safe when traveling in Morocco with young ones – as well as tips on making sure your entire group has an amazing time!
What Reasons Make Morocco a Perfect Choice for Family Holiday?
Morocco is an ideal destination for families looking for a unique and exciting holiday. Located in the extreme northwestern part of Africa, it has both a Mediterranean and Atlantic coast, providing plenty of opportunities to explore its stunning beaches. The country also boasts souqs, kasbahs, mountains, and desert dunes that are perfect for adventurous activities. Travel in Morocco is straightforward and suitable for children of all ages, making it an easy-to-access holiday destination.
Top Reasons to Put Morocco on Your Trip’s Bucket List
- Rich Culture and History: Morocco is a country with a rich culture and history that can be explored through its many monuments, museums, and archaeological sites. From the ancient ruins of Volubilis to the stunning Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, there are plenty of opportunities for families to learn about the country’s past.
- Variety of Activities: Morocco offers a wide range of activities for families to enjoy. From camel rides in the Sahara Desert to exploring vibrant medinas, there’s something for everyone. Families can also take part in water sports such as surfing, sailing, and fishing.
- Delicious Cuisine: Morocco is known for its delicious cuisine that features a variety of spices and flavors. From tagines to couscous, there are plenty of dishes to try that will please even the pickiest of eaters.
- Affordable Accommodation: Morocco offers a variety of accommodation options for families, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. This makes it easy to find something that fits your family’s needs and budget.
- Safety: Morocco is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals who are happy to help.
Recommended experiences for families in Morocco
Morocco is a culturally unique country with a blend of European, Arabic, and African cultures. Visiting Morocco with kids offers the chance for adventurous family travel. With its investment in tourism infrastructure, Morocco has become increasingly popular as a family travel destination. The country is investing billions of dirhams to restore old medinas and traditional riads, making it an ideal place for families to explore.
Families can explore the souqs of Marrakesh, a maze of alleyways lined with stalls selling handmade carpets, spices, and more. With the help of a guide, they can visit pottery workshops, metalworkers, carpet makers, and leather dyers. Entertainment on Djemaa el Fna square includes snake charmers, jugglers, flame throwers, and acrobats that will keep everyone entertained. Other activities include stunning beaches, blue waters, incredible cities for sightseeing and shopping opportunities as well as mouthwatering cuisine. Planning the perfect Morocco family vacation requires careful consideration of the best activities and attractions for all ages.
Family-friendly accommodation in Marrakesh
Les Jardins de la Medina is a great option for families looking for accommodation in Marrakesh. The bright and airy rooms are perfect for a comfortable stay, while the garden with its pool provides a great spot to relax and enjoy some quality time together. For those seeking something more luxurious, Villa Nomade is an ideal choice. This chic boutique hotel is located in the heart of the old city and features a rooftop pool and private suite.
Dar Zemora is another excellent family-friendly accommodation option in Marrakesh. This welcoming country house hotel is situated in the Palmeraie area and boasts rustic wooden furniture, brightly decorated rugs, and cushions, as well as landscaped grounds with rose gardens and ponds. Kasbah Ait Ben Moro offers traditional rooms with local charm, while Les Jardins de Skoura provides French-style luxury with comfortable rooms, a large pool, and a good restaurant. Both options provide family-friendly accommodation in Skoura.
Visit a Berber family in the Atlas Mountains
Visiting a Berber family in the Atlas Mountains is an unforgettable experience. The Berbers are an ethnic group who have maintained a traditional way of life for centuries, and visitors can learn about their culture and lifestyle first-hand. Guests will be treated to local delicacies such as dates, hard-boiled eggs, olive oil, and freshly baked bread cooked in a clay oven, all accompanied by mint tea.
The scenery of the Atlas Mountains is breathtaking, with lush valleys and picturesque villages providing stunning views. Visitors can explore the area on the back of a mule or take low-altitude hikes through olive and walnut groves. A stop at a local waterfall for some freshly squeezed juice is also recommended! Finally, guests can join a local family for lunch of tagine and freshly cooked flatbreads – an authentic Moroccan experience that will stay with them forever.
Family-friendly accommodation in the Atlas Mountains
Kasbah Bab Ourika is the perfect destination for a family-friendly getaway in the Atlas Mountains. Located just 45 minutes from Marrakesh, this accommodation offers spacious and stylish rooms with beautiful bathrooms and views of the valley. There are plenty of activities to enjoy during your stay, such as local walks, visiting a Berber family, and browsing a local market.
For an even more unique experience, families can opt to stay in a Berber desert camp with tents, beds, electricity, and shared or private bathroom facilities. Spend the night under the stars with a campfire and traditional music before waking up early to climb the dunes for sunrise. With so many activities on offer and stunning scenery to explore, Kasbah Bab Ourika is sure to provide an unforgettable family holiday in the Atlas Mountains.
Explore kasbahs and fortresses in Skoura
Skoura is a destination in Morocco that offers travelers the chance to explore some of the country’s most impressive fortresses and kasbahs. Located just a few hours away from Marrakesh, Skoura is home to the Dades Valley, which is known as the ‘Valley of a Thousand Kasbahs’ due to its collection of fortresses. One such fortress is Kasbah Amridil, a 17th-century structure that appears on Morocco’s 50 dirham note and still retains many of its original features such as bread ovens, olive presses, and pottery.
Ksar El Kabbaba is another great option for those visiting Skoura. This hotel/riad was rated as the second-favorite of the trip by visitors and offers plenty of activities such as exploring rooftops, biking through the palmeraie, and visiting its gardens. Guests can also enjoy an excellent hammam experience at Ksar El Kabbaba.
Family-friendly accommodation in Skoura
Kasbah Ait Ben Moro is a great option for family-friendly accommodation in Skoura. This traditional 18th-century kasbah offers simple but stylish rooms, plenty of local charm, and a peaceful atmosphere. The hotel has a restaurant serving up delicious Moroccan cuisine, as well as a terrace with views of the surrounding palm groves and mountains. Guests can also enjoy activities such as camel rides and guided tours of the nearby oases.
Les Jardins de Skoura is another excellent choice for family-friendly accommodation in Skoura. This French-style hotel offers comfortable rooms, a large pool, and a good restaurant. It also features North African flair with brightly colored rugs and cushions, landscaped grounds with rose gardens and frog-filled ponds, and an outdoor terrace perfect for relaxing after a day exploring the area. For those looking for something more luxurious, Villa Nomade is a chic boutique hotel in the heart of the old city with a rooftop terrace and private plunge pool.
Less obvious highlights for families in Morocco
With its diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich history, there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. One of the less obvious highlights for families in Morocco is a six-hour drive to the desert. Along the way, you can stop in Dades Valley or Todra Gorge to take in the stunning views. Once you arrive at your destination, you can purchase a cheche, a traditional Berber scarf from Rissani, a desert trading town. After that, enjoy a 45-minute camel ride into the desert and camp overnight for an extended stay.
For those who prefer more active adventures with their family, there are plenty of activities to choose from in Morocco. Trekking up Mount Toubkal is one option that will give you breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Exploring all the places to visit around Morocco is also something that kids will love doing with their parents.
Family-friendly desert accommodation
Morocco is a great destination for all families looking for an unforgettable experience. One of the best ways to explore the country is by staying overnight in a Berber desert camp. Accommodation includes tents with beds, electricity, and shared or private bathrooms, so you can enjoy all the comforts of home while still being immersed in nature. During your stay, you can take part in activities such as local walks, visiting a Berber family and the Assafou Foundation, or browsing a local market. At night, you can enjoy the night skies, campfire meals, and traditional music under the stars, followed by a sunrise climb up the dunes.
If you’re looking for something more luxurious than camping but still want to be close to nature, Kasbah Bab Ourika offers family-friendly accommodation in the Atlas Mountains just 45 minutes from Marrakesh. The rooms are spacious and stylish with beautiful bathrooms and views of the valley. You can also take advantage of their spa services.
Explore the Moroccan Hollywood
Ouarzazate is the heart of Morocco’s film industry and a great place to break a journey from the desert to Marrakesh. Tourists can explore the studios and visit Ksar Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This stunning fortified city is one of the most beautiful in Morocco, with its traditional architecture and stunning views. Visitors can also enjoy nearby attractions such as Tifoultoute Kasbah, Taourirt Kasbah, and Talmout Oasis.
Casablanca is another great representation of modernity in Morocco, with its stunning Moresque buildings blending French-colonial design with traditional Moroccan style. Trains are the most comfortable way to reach Casablanca, where tourists can explore attractions such as the Hassan II Mosque and King’s Palace. There are plenty of dining and nightlife scenes to enjoy in Casablanca, or visitors can take a ride on the Casa Tramway for scenic views of the city.
Family-friendly accommodation near Ouarzazate
Ouarzazate is a great destination for families looking for an exciting holiday. With its stunning desert landscapes, bustling markets, and vibrant culture, it’s the perfect place to explore Morocco. For those seeking family-friendly accommodation near Ouarzazate, there are plenty of options to choose from.
Ksar Ighnda is a great option located just 30 minutes away from Ouarzazate. This traditional Moroccan property offers a pool, restaurant, and roof terraces with stunning sunset views. Jardins Des Douars is another excellent choice situated 15 minutes away from Essaouira. It features family bungalows, two pools, and a spa, as well as child-friendly staff who will make sure your stay is comfortable and enjoyable. Riad Watier in the center of Essaouira also has spacious family suites with two bedrooms and two lounges, making it ideal for larger groups or families traveling together. Explore the Portuguese fort of Essaouira
Essaouira is a beautiful Portuguese fort located on the Atlantic coast, two and a half hours west of Marrakesh. The port is bustling with fishing boats, woodworkers carving on the streets, and the small medina. There are plenty of art galleries and cafés to explore, as well as lines of stallholders grilling fish. The long windy beach is ideal for windsurfing and other activities such as kite-surfing, fishing, quad-biking, and camel rides.
The town has become popular with hippies and families alike due to its laid-back atmosphere and range of accommodation options from city center riads to family-friendly hotels with pools. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to relax in the sun, Essaouira has something for everyone. With its stunning views of the ocean and its rich history, it’s no wonder why this Portuguese fort is so popular among tourists.
Family-friendly accommodation in Essaouira
Essaouira is a great destination for families looking for a unique and memorable holiday experience. There are plenty of family-friendly accommodation options available in the city, ranging from traditional riads to international hotels. Jardins Des Douars is a 15-minute drive from Essaouira and offers family bungalows, two pools, and a spa. The property is child-friendly and provides a great opportunity to explore the local culture. Riad Watier is another great option located in the center of Essaouira, offering spacious family suites with two bedrooms and two lounges. If you’re looking for something further away from the city, Ouarzazate has a variety of international hotels for film crews as well as Ksar Ighnda which is located 30 minutes away. This family-friendly option features a pool, restaurant, and roof terraces with stunning sunset views. Whichever accommodation you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable stay.
Eating with your family in Morocco
Eating with your family in Morocco is a unique and exciting experience. Moroccan cuisine is full of flavor, with tagines, brochettes, roasted corn, couscous, and pastries all making up part of the traditional fare. Popular dishes include gazelle horns, which are hard-shelled pastries filled with almond paste. Freshly squeezed orange juice is also a popular drink.
One great option for eating out with kids in Morocco is Zeitoun Cafe in Marrakesh. This cafe offers good food at a reasonable price and has an amazing view to boot. Families with young children have been spotted there, so it’s definitely kid-friendly. Plus, you can get freshly squeezed juice here that’s cheaper than what you’ll find in the main square. Eating out with your family in Morocco can be an enjoyable experience for everyone involved!
Best time to visit Morocco with your family
Visiting Morocco with your family is a great way to experience the country’s culture and attractions. The best time to visit Morocco is between March and May, or September to November. This period offers the best opportunity to experience the country’s tourist attractions, such as uShaka Marine World, Africa’s largest marine theme park. February and October are also ideal times to visit, as is Easter. Booking in advance is recommended to ensure you stay in your first choice of accommodation.
When visiting Morocco with your family, there are plenty of activities for everyone to enjoy. From exploring the bustling markets of Marrakech and Fes to taking a camel ride through the Sahara Desert, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure and exploration. For those looking for a more relaxed holiday, there are plenty of beaches along the Mediterranean coast that offers sunbathing and swimming opportunities. With its rich culture and stunning landscapes, Morocco is an ideal destination for families looking for a unique and memorable holiday experience.
Practicalities of visiting Morocco with children
Morocco is a great destination for families with children, offering the chance for adventurous family travel. With a blend of European, Arabic, and African cultures, Morocco offers something unique to explore. Over the past decade, Morocco has become an increasingly popular destination for families due to its investment in tourism infrastructure. The country is investing billions of dirhams to restore old medinas and traditional riads, making it easier than ever to enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer.
A week-long trip can include Marrakesh, the mountains, and the desert, or Marrakesh and Essaouira. Ten days are needed to see all of these destinations. There are plenty of activities for families in Morocco such as stunning beaches, blue waters, incredible cities, world-class shopping, and mouthwatering cuisine. Our Morocco family travel blog provides tips for planning the perfect Morocco family vacation so you can make sure you get the most out of your time there with your kids.
Start planning your family trip to Morocco
Planning a family trip to Morocco is an exciting adventure that will provide your family with unique experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. From the bustling souks of Marrakesh to the exotic sights of the High Atlas Mountains, there are plenty of activities and attractions for everyone in the family. A grand tour of Morocco is a great way to explore the country’s culture and history, while also taking in some spectacular scenery.
When planning your family trip to Morocco, it’s important to consider travel insurance for kids, when to go, how long to stay, getting around, what to eat, and where to stay. An Erg Chebbi desert circuit is a must-do experience for any traveler looking for an unforgettable journey through this unique landscape. It’s also important to be aware of health concerns, food and water safety, and the cost of travel in Morocco with kids. With careful planning and preparation, you can ensure that your family has a safe and enjoyable trip.
What Is The Best Time To Travel To Morocco With Kids?
Traveling to Morocco with kids can be a great experience, as the country offers a wide range of activities and attractions for all ages. The best time to visit Morocco with kids is between March and May or September to November, when temperatures are comfortable and crowds are smaller. During this time, travelers should also take into account the time change that occurs from one week before Ramadan until one week after Ramadan ends. This means that clocks are set back one hour to allow Muslims more time to break their fast before the sun rises. Many restaurants won’t open until 8:30 PM and they typically operate well past midnight during this period.
Although Morocco can be visited year-round, it gets really hot in the summer months of July and August, so it’s best to avoid these months if you’re traveling with children. Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) offer mild weather conditions which make them ideal times for visiting Morocco with kids. It’s important to note that Ramadan is a time of fasting and prayer, so it’s best to avoid this period if you’re traveling with children.
What Is The Food Like In Morocco?
Moroccan cuisine is a unique blend of flavors and spices, with dishes cooked in a tagine and served with vegetables and couscous. The food is mild in heat and relies on natural juices and herbs/spices like cumin for flavoring. Moroccan bread is a staple of nearly every meal, while breakfast often consists of baked goods. There are many traditional dishes to try in Morocco, such as couscous, tagine, and pastilla. The staple food in Morocco is a tagine, which is a couscous-based dish with vegetables, dried fruits, and spices.
Due to the Islamic nature of the country, open alcohol is not permitted anywhere in Morocco. Hotels, Riad’s, and restaurants require special permission in order to sell alcohol. It is advised to stay away from salads and only eats fruit that can be peeled or vegetables that have been washed, peeled, and cooked well. International supermarkets like Carrefour can be found in Marrakech for those who need to stock up on food and drinks.
How To Stay Healthy In Morocco with Children
Staying healthy in Morocco with children can be a challenge, but there are several steps you can take to ensure your family’s health and safety. First and foremost, it is important to wear light-colored clothing and insect repellant during the summer months. Vaccines for polio, hepatitis A & B, tetanus, and typhoid are also recommended. Additionally, it is best to avoid tap water and street food unless guided by a local expert.
When it comes to food, sample a variety of local dishes such as snails, camel hump, sheep brains, bissara soup, steamed chickpeas with cumin, makrouta, beef kofta, and beef tongue. Ensure that all food is cooked properly to avoid any tummy problems. Traditional Moroccan cuisine is cooked in a tagine and served with couscous while the bread is a staple along with Mediterranean vegetables and fruit. Spices are used extensively in Moroccan cooking so popular dishes include couscous, tagine, and pastilla.
Should You Use Travel Insurance In Morocco?
Traveling to Morocco is an exciting and unique experience that can be enjoyed by all ages. Whether you’re looking for a beach holiday, a cultural adventure, or a mountain trek, Morocco has something for everyone. However, it is important to consider the risks of traveling abroad and take out travel insurance before you go.
Travel insurance can provide peace of mind when visiting Morocco as it covers a range of potential issues such as delays, lost luggage, theft, illness/injury, and personal loss. World Nomads is a recommended travel insurance company with a responsive and helpful team worldwide. It also offers reduced costs or free coverage for children traveling with adults. The best time to visit Morocco is typically between March and May, and between September and October; however, Ramadan usually falls in April or May, while October is the date season. Although Morocco is generally a peaceful and tolerant place to visit, it’s important to be aware of petty crimes such as pickpocketing. Our guides offer advice and tips on how to stay safe in Morocco.
More Tips For Visiting Morocco With Kids
Visiting Morocco with kids is an exciting and unique experience that can provide a lifetime of memories. With its blend of European, Arabic, and African cultures, Morocco offers a variety of activities for families to explore. From stunning beaches to incredible cities, and world-class shopping to mouthwatering cuisine, there is something for everyone in this vibrant country.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for the whole family, it’s important to be prepared before visiting Morocco with kids.
Familiarize children with squat toilets before visiting rural areas and protect them from heat exhaustion and sunstroke with sunscreen, light clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and plenty of water.
Ask permission before taking photos and negotiate tips for street performers or animal handlers. Barter for goods and be aware of vendors attempting to lure children in with “free” gifts.
Consider dressing young children in bright clothing when visiting busy areas such as medinas and the Djemma el-Fnaa market; this will make them easier to spot in a crowd.
Finally, be sure to purchase travel insurance before visiting Morocco with your kids. This will provide peace of mind and cover any unexpected costs or medical expenses that may arise during the trip.
Morocco Conclusion
Morocco is a great family holiday destination for those looking for an exciting and unique experience. With its stunning beaches, incredible cities, world-class shopping, and mouthwatering cuisine, there are plenty of activities for everyone in the family. When planning your trip to Morocco with kids, it’s important to consider travel insurance for kids, when to go, how long to stay, getting around, what to eat, and where to stay.
The best time to visit Morocco with kids is between March and May or September to November. With careful planning and preparation, you can ensure that your family has a safe and enjoyable trip that they will never forget.
