Imagine this: bustling markets filled with colourful spices, camel rides through rolling dunes, and nights spent gazing at a sky ablaze with stars. Morocco, tucked into the corner of Africa, isn’t your average holiday spot, but that’s exactly what makes it so brilliant for a family adventure! In this guide, we’ll explore why we at Booking with Kids have chosen Morocco as one of the most family-friendly destinations.
Morocco’s a short hop across the sea from Spain, so flights are perfect for little troopers – most are around four hours. Think of it as a magic carpet ride to a whole new world!
They speak Arabic in Morocco, but don’t fret – French is common too, and English is becoming more popular all the time. Even if you don’t speak the lingo, smiles and gestures go a long way!
Sunshine is practically guaranteed in Morocco, but the best time to visit depends on what you fancy. Spring and autumn are lovely and warm, but summer can get a tad toasty, especially in the desert.
Here’s the thing: Morocco is magical, but it’s also different from home. Things might move a little slower, and dressing modestly, especially when visiting mosques, is a good idea.
At Booking with Kids, we understand that planning a family holiday can be stressful, which is why we’ve made guides to make the process easier for you. Our guides include information on the best family-friendly accommodation options, activities, and attractions to visit, as well as practical tips and advice to help you make the most of your trip.
Our Top Destinations in Morocco to Visit With Children
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This guide unlocks the magic of Morocco for families! We know planning a trip with little adventurers can feel overwhelming. Here, you’ll find everything you need to create an unforgettable Moroccan odyssey – from bustling cities and ancient wonders to breathtaking landscapes and beautiful culture.
Here’s what you will find step-by-step info on:
- The best time to go to Morocco with children
- Our top family-friendly destinations in Morocco
- Exploring cities in Morocco with children
- Nature holidays with children in Morocco
- Visiting Coastal towns in Morocco with children
If you’re in the stage of packing and ready to go to Morocco, check out our Travel Gear page where you can easily find all the essentials that you need to take on your holiday!
When to go to Morocco with Children
Winter (November-March) can be a bit unpredictable. It’s generally mild, especially on the coast, but there can be occasional rain showers. It’s a good option if you’re looking for a quieter experience and don’t mind packing a light raincoat for the occasional downpour. Plus, the crowds are thinner, which means more space for little legs to roam freely through the ancient medinas. Just remember, things might be a tad cooler at night, especially in the mountains, so pack a cosy jumper for snuggling up by a crackling fireplace. Now, the summer months (June-August) can be glorious, with long, sunny days perfect for soaking up the rays. But be warned, it can get seriously hot, especially in the desert, where temperatures can soar. If the little ones aren’t fans of the heat, it might be best to give summer a miss.
Destinations in Morocco for Families
At Booking with Kids, we’ve made guides to make your family’s stay in Morocco easier, including three of the most popular destinations:
Exploring Cities in Morocco with Children
Morocco’s cities are like stepping into a living fairytale. Imagine twisting alleyways filled with colourful sights and smells, friendly shopkeepers with dazzling wares, and the rhythmic chatter of a different world. But fear not, these cities aren’t just for grown-ups! Here are a few must-visits that will have your little adventurers wide-eyed with wonder:
Marrakech – A feast for the senses. Get lost (but not really, most hotels can help you find your way back!) in the labyrinthine maze of the Medina, a giant souk (market) where you can find everything from hand-painted pottery to mountains of fluffy slippers. Don’t miss Djemaa el-Fnaa, the main square, where snake charmers, acrobats and storytellers weave their magic. In the afternoon, escape the heat with a visit to the Jardin Majorelle, a beautiful botanical garden bursting with cacti, flowers and secret corners to explore.
Fez – Morocco’s oldest city, and it feels like it! The Fez Medina is the world’s largest car-free zone, a maze of narrow alleyways lined with traditional workshops. Let your kids be amazed by the leather tanneries, where hides are dyed vibrant colours in giant vats – it’s a sight (and smell!) they won’t forget. For a history lesson brought to life, visit the Bou Inania Madrasa, a stunning Koranic school decorated with intricate mosaics. Top tip: hire a local guide – they’ll help you navigate the maze and share fascinating stories about the city’s rich past.
Nature Holidays with Children in Morocco
Morocco isn’t all bustling cities and bustling souks! Beyond the colourful markets lies a whole other world for little explorers to discover.
The mighty Atlas Mountains are a must-visit. Here, you can swap the hustle and bustle for gentle hikes through valleys bursting with wildflowers, picnics by cascading waterfalls, and spotting cheeky Barbary macaque monkeys swinging through the cedar forests. If your little adventurers are feeling energetic, there are guided horse-riding treks suitable for all ages, allowing you to explore hidden Berber villages and soak up the breathtaking mountain views.
Feeling adventurous? The Sahara Desert awaits! Picture this: a camel caravan silhouetted against a fiery sunset, sleeping under a canopy of stars a million miles wide, and waking up to the golden dunes stretching out as far as the eye can see. Desert camps offer comfortable accommodation (think tents with proper beds, not the flimsy pop-up kind!), delicious local food, and activities like sandboarding down the dunes – a guaranteed giggle-fest for all ages! Remember, nights in the desert can get chilly, so pack a few extra layers for snuggling around a crackling campfire and gazing up at the Milky Way in all its glory.
Nature in Morocco isn’t just about mountains and deserts. The dramatic Todra and Dades Gorges are like stepping into a giant’s playground. Towering cliffs carved by millions of years of erosion create a dramatic backdrop for exploring hidden trails, spotting unique birdlife, and picnicking by refreshing oasis pools.
Here’s the thing: a Moroccan nature adventure is all about slowing down, appreciating the beauty of the natural world, and creating lasting memories together. Whether it’s spotting cheeky monkeys in the mountains, camel rides across the golden dunes, or exploring towering gorges, Morocco’s nature has something to spark every child’s sense of wonder.
Coastal Towns with Children in Morocco
Essaouira – It’s a breath of fresh air, literally! This coastal town offers a more relaxed vibe compared to the bustling inland cities. Let the kids loose on the sandy beach to build sandcastles and chase waves. Feeling peckish? Head to the harbour to try freshly caught seafood grilled to perfection right in front of you. For a touch of adventure, take a camel ride along the beach at sunset – the golden light painting the sky will be a memory that stays with you forever.
Oualidia – Imagine a sheltered lagoon with calm, crystal-clear waters – perfect for little ones who want to paddle and splash without getting battered by waves. Oualidia offers just that! Nestled on Morocco’s Atlantic coast south of Essaouira, this laid-back town boasts a beautiful lagoon, a haven for kitesurfing and stand-up paddleboarding for older kids (with adult supervision, of course!). Foodies will love the town’s speciality – fresh oysters grown right in the lagoon. Slurp them down on a beachfront terrace while the kids build sandcastles and watch colourful fishing boats bobbing on the water.
Asilah – For a dose of creativity by the sea, look no further than Asilah. This charming town, painted in a kaleidoscope of blues and whites, is a haven for artists. During the Moussem d’Asilah festival in August, the town’s white walls transform into giant canvases, adorned with vibrant street art. Kids will love spotting playful murals and quirky characters as you explore the narrow alleyways. Asilah also boasts a beautiful beach, perfect for building sandcastles and dipping your toes in the cool Atlantic waters. In the evenings, enjoy a delicious meal of fresh seafood at a harbourside restaurant, watching the sun dip below the horizon and paint the sky in fiery hues.
Crammed with adventures for all ages, Morocco is a treasure chest overflowing with family fun!
At Booking with Kids, we understand that family holidays can be a stressful experience, but with our help, you can be sure to have a tantrum–free holiday.