When my husband and I first mentioned Morocco to our kids, their imaginations ran wild—“Will there be camels?” “Can we sleep in a tent?” “Are the streets really full of magic lamps?” They weren’t far off. Traveling through Morocco as a family turned out to be one of the most captivating adventures we’ve ever had—a kaleidoscope of color, sound, spice, and warmth. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the golden Sahara Desert sunsets, every moment felt like stepping into a living storybook.
Planning Our Family Adventure to Morocco
Why Morocco for Family Travel?
We were drawn to Morocco for its variety—it’s one of those rare destinations that blends history, adventure, culture, and comfort all in one journey. For families, it’s ideal: a safe environment, friendly locals who adore children, and endless opportunities to learn while having fun.
We planned a 10-day family travel Morocco itinerary that would balance excitement with relaxation:
- Marrakech for its vibrant souks and cultural energy
- Aït Benhaddou for its cinematic desert fortress
- Merzouga and the Sahara Desert for an unforgettable camel trek
- Dades Valley for mountain scenery and Berber villages
We booked a private driver-guide—a must for families—to help with logistics, long drives, and local insights. Before the trip, we prepared the kids by watching short videos about Moroccan culture and introducing them to couscous and tagine at home. They were instantly hooked by the idea of “eating from one big dish together.”
Arriving in Marrakech: A Symphony of Color and Chaos
First Impressions of the Red City
The moment we stepped out of the airport in Marrakech, the warm desert air carried the scent of oranges and spices. Our driver greeted us with mint tea and a smile, and as we drove through the city’s pink-tinged walls, the kids pressed their faces to the windows, fascinated by the swirl of scooters, donkey carts, and street performers.
We stayed at a family-friendly riad in the medina—a traditional Moroccan guesthouse built around a courtyard. Our room opened to mosaic-tiled balconies, and each morning, we woke to the sound of distant prayer calls and the smell of fresh bread baking. The kids loved the courtyard fountain and the warm hospitality of the staff, who treated them like family.
Exploring the Souks with Kids
Our first full day was spent wandering the souks of Marrakech, a maze of narrow alleys filled with carpets, lanterns, and leather goods. At first, it was overwhelming—each turn brought new colors, smells, and calls from friendly vendors—but soon we found a rhythm.
Our guide helped the kids engage in the experience, teaching them how to say “no, thank you” (la, shukran) and showing them how to bargain respectfully. They quickly caught on, gleefully negotiating for small trinkets and souvenirs.
We stopped for lunch at a rooftop restaurant overlooking Jemaa el-Fnaa, the city’s famous main square. From above, we watched snake charmers, acrobats, and orange juice vendors below as we ate chicken tagine with preserved lemons and couscous with vegetables. The kids slurped up freshly squeezed orange juice and couldn’t stop watching the street performers.
Family Tip: Visit the souks early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Keep small bills handy and make sure the kids stay close—getting lost in the medina is easy but also part of the adventure!
Culture, Cuisine, and Camels
Hands-On Experiences in Marrakech
To give the kids a cultural connection, we joined a family cooking class at a local home. Together, we learned to make Moroccan tagine, grinding spices with mortar and pestle, and shaping dough for flatbread. The experience was interactive and joyful—our youngest loved arranging vegetables in the tagine pot like a piece of art.
Afterward, our host family shared stories about daily life in Marrakech. The children played with the family’s cat and practiced a few Arabic words with the hosts’ kids. It was one of those travel moments where boundaries disappeared, replaced by laughter and curiosity.
Jardin Majorelle: A Breath of Blue Serenity
After the chaos of the medina, we took a half-day trip to Jardin Majorelle, the famous cobalt-blue garden once owned by Yves Saint Laurent. The kids adored the koi ponds, bamboo groves, and exotic cacti, while we soaked in the tranquility. The small Berber Museum inside sparked fascinating conversations about Morocco’s indigenous culture.
Crossing the Atlas Mountains
A Scenic Road to Adventure
Leaving Marrakech, we began the drive toward the Sahara. The High Atlas Mountains unfolded before us—rugged peaks dotted with villages that seemed to cling to cliffs. The road twisted through the Tizi n’Tichka Pass, offering breathtaking views at every turn.
We stopped often to stretch and explore. In a small mountain village, we met women making argan oil by hand. The kids watched, wide-eyed, as they cracked nuts with stones and ground them into golden oil. We bought a small bottle as a souvenir, the scent forever reminding us of that moment.
Lunch was at a roadside café where we tried Berber omelets baked in clay pots—a hit with everyone. Traveling in Morocco means meals are an adventure in themselves, each one offering a window into local life.
Aït Benhaddou: Walking Through Movie History
As we descended from the mountains, we reached Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the setting for films like Gladiator and Game of Thrones. The kids were thrilled to learn they were walking where movie heroes once stood.
We explored the ancient ksar (fortified village) with a local guide who explained how families once lived within its mud-brick walls. The climb to the top was steep, but the view over the desert plain was worth every step. From above, the fading light turned the kasbah walls from gold to deep red—it was pure magic.
Family Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and carry plenty of water. Combine this visit with a stop in nearby Ouarzazate, where the kids can tour a movie studio and see film props up close.
Into the Sahara: The Heart of Morocco
The Long Road to Merzouga
After a night in a desert kasbah hotel, we continued our journey toward Merzouga, the gateway to the Erg Chebbi dunes. The drive was long—over eight hours—but filled with changing landscapes: rocky canyons, palm oases, and tiny roadside markets selling dates and pottery.
We made frequent stops, letting the kids run and explore. In one Berber village, a shopkeeper invited them to try on desert turbans, wrapping their heads like little adventurers. They proudly wore them for the rest of the trip.
Camel Trek and Desert Camp Experience
As the sun began to set, we met our camel guides. Each child had their own camel, and their faces lit up as we set off, swaying gently through the dunes. The sand glowed gold and orange as the sky turned pink, then purple. Silence enveloped us, broken only by the soft plod of camel feet.
Arriving at our desert camp, we found tents made of woven blankets, furnished with soft beds and Moroccan rugs. Dinner was served under a canopy of stars—tagine, flatbread, and sweet mint tea.
Afterward, our guides built a campfire and played traditional Berber drums. The kids danced barefoot in the sand, laughing under the Milky Way. It was one of those surreal moments that make travel unforgettable—the vastness of the desert, the warmth of strangers, the joy of simplicity.
Family Tip: Pack warm clothes for desert nights—it gets chilly after sunset. Bring baby wipes, extra snacks, and a flashlight for the kids’ tents.
The Dades Valley: Mountains, Gorges, and Quiet Villages
The next morning, we watched the sunrise paint the dunes pink and amber before riding back to Merzouga. From there, we headed north to the Dades Valley, famous for its dramatic rock formations and Berber villages.
We stayed in a guesthouse overlooking the gorge, where our host family welcomed us with homemade bread and honey. The kids played with the family’s children, climbing the nearby rocks and comparing words in French and Arabic.
We spent a day hiking through the Todra Gorge, walking beside the river that cuts between towering cliffs. Goats grazed on the slopes, and climbers clung to the rock faces above us. It was peaceful, beautiful, and a welcome break from long car rides.
That evening, our host prepared couscous with lamb and caramelized onions. We all ate from one large platter, sharing stories and laughter by candlelight.
Returning to Marrakech: Reflections on Family Travel in Morocco
The drive back to Marrakech felt like the closing of a beautiful loop. Our children had learned so much—not just about Morocco’s geography or food, but about patience, gratitude, and human connection.
On our last evening, we returned to Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, where we watched it transform once again into a lively outdoor theater. The kids chose their favorite snacks—grilled corn and fresh orange juice—while musicians played and storytellers gathered small crowds.
As the sun dipped behind the Koutoubia Mosque, I realized Morocco had given us more than memories—it had given us perspective. Traveling here as a family wasn’t always easy (long drives, busy markets, a bit of sand everywhere), but it was deeply rewarding.
Family Travel Tips for Visiting Morocco
- Hire a driver-guide: It makes long-distance travel smoother and safer, especially with kids.
- Pack layers: The weather varies drastically—from hot Marrakech days to chilly desert nights.
- Engage your kids culturally: Teach them basic Arabic phrases and encourage them to try new foods.
- Stay in riads and guesthouses: They offer authentic hospitality and family-friendly comfort.
- Plan downtime: Morocco’s intensity can be overwhelming; balance sightseeing with rest days.
- Respect local customs: Dress modestly, greet locals politely, and always ask before taking photos.
Final Reflections: Morocco Through a Child’s Eyes
As our plane took off, my daughter whispered, “I don’t want to leave the camels.” My son added, “Or the drums.” I smiled, because those words captured the essence of our trip—Morocco had touched their hearts in a way no souvenir ever could.
From the hum of Marrakech’s souks to the stillness of the Sahara, family travel in Morocco is a sensory feast and a lesson in wonder. It’s a place where kids can learn that the world is vast and beautiful, where traditions are alive, and where the smallest gestures—a smile, a shared meal, a song under desert stars—can create the biggest memories.
If you’re dreaming of a journey that combines adventure, culture, and heart, Morocco is the perfect family destination. Pack your curiosity, your appetite, and a spirit of openness—and get ready to discover a land that truly feels like magic.
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