family vacation in Morocco
Planning a family vacation in Morocco that seamlessly blends thrills, culture, and tranquility? Morocco stands out as one of the most captivating family travel destinations in North Africa, offering a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and warm hospitality. From exploring the vibrant streets of Marrakech to enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of Essaouira, this diverse country provides endless opportunities for family memories. Through multiple visits, extended road trips, and living experiences, this guide shares essential insights into planning an unforgettable Moroccan adventure.
- Sandboard down the dunes in the Sahara at sunset.
- Learn to surf in Essaouira.
- Haggle for souvenirs in the souks .
- Ride a mule in the Atlas Mountains.
- Explore the Roman ruins of Volubillis.
- Meet the crocodiles at Crocoparc in Agadir.
- Take a guided tours around Fes , Marrakech.
- Whizz down the slides and take on the climbing wall at Oasiria waterpark, Marrakech.
- Take a cooking class along your Family Vacation in Morocco.
Must-Visit Destinations for a Family Vacation in Morocco
Morocco is a safe destination for family travel, with its welcoming culture and child-friendly atmosphere making it particularly suitable for visitors with children. The local population is known for their warm hospitality, especially towards families with kids.
The main concern is traffic, particularly mopeds that frequently navigate through narrow streets. There are limited sidewalks in the medinas, and where they exist, they’re often used by moped drivers as shortcuts.
For families with toddlers, back carriers are recommended over strollers, offering both safety from street traffic and better views of the surroundings. Walking children should be kept close and positioned away from traffic flows.
Essaouira stands out as an exceptionally Family Vacation in Morocco, thanks to its traffic-free medina. This coastal city’s car-free old town allows children more freedom to explore safely, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a more relaxed Moroccan experience.
How to get around Morocco with kids
While Morocco offers comprehensive public transportation connecting major cities and towns, exploring the country’s hidden gems often requires more flexible transportation options. Renting a car provides access to off-the-beaten-path destinations and can be both cost-effective and convenient compared to relying on public transport or private taxis.
Consider car rental if you’re planning to:
Explore remote locations beyond main tourist routes
- Travel with flexibility and independence
- Save money on multiple transport tickets
- Avoid potential public transport scheduling issues
Public transport works well for:
- City-to-city travel between major destinations
- Budget travel within main tourist areas
- Short trips between popular locations
Family packing list for Morocco
Morocco offers an incredible variety of climates and landscapes, from snow-capped mountains and sun-soaked cities to breezy coastal towns and the arid heat of the Sahara Desert. Packing smartly for such a diverse destination is key, especially since Morocco’s cultural norms also influence clothing choices.
During a three-week road trip in April, travelers often encounter all four seasons. In the Atlas Mountains, warm woolly hats and winter jackets are essential. Marrakech calls for sun hats and sunscreen, while unexpected rain in the Sahara makes a lightweight rain jacket indispensable.
In a Nutshell: In a nutshell, pack for the unexpected, focusing on layers and breathable clothing for the interchangeable climates, and wear loose-fitting, light clothes that cover your shoulders, cleavage and legs. Kids will be fine in shorts and t-shirts but women will feel more comfortable in long skirts or loose trousers.
Tips for travelling Morocco with kids
- Avoid peak summer: Travel in April, May, September, October, or November for milder weather.
- During Ramadan: Tourist spots remain open, but schedules may change.
- Pack plug adaptors: Morocco uses type C and E plugs with two round pins.
- Modest clothing: Cover shoulders and knees, especially in rural areas; modest swimwear for beaches.
- Drink bottled water: Avoid tap water; use a filtered reusable bottle.
- Sunscreen and hats are essential to protect against Morocco’s strong sun.
- Taxis: Agree on a price before getting in.