Morocco Family Holidays: Best Places for Kids and Parents Alike

Morocco is an excellent choice for a Morocco Family Holiday, offering a unique mix of adventure, culture, and varied landscapes. From navigating the winding streets of busy medinas to riding camels across desert dunes, the country provides a wealth of activities suitable for all ages. Moroccan culture is also famously family-friendly; children are warmly welcomed in shops, cafés, and public places, helping everyone settle in and feel at home quickly. If you are planning a Family Holiday in Morocco (or a more specific Marrakech trip), this guide explains why Morocco is well-suited to families, identifies the best places to visit with kids, and offers practical tips to ensure your journey is safe, relaxed, and memorable.

Why Choose Morocco for a Family Holiday

• Cultural variety and warmth: Morocco’s cultural mix includes Berber, Arab, and European influences, creating an engaging setting for families. Every day life brings new experiences – from the call to prayer across the rooftops to local festivals and markets. Moroccan society places a strong emphasis on family and children, and many visitors notice how naturally locals interact with kids. This turns simple moments (shopping, eating out, walking through town) into positive exchanges for children and adults.
• Range of landscapes and day-to-day adventure: Morocco offers beaches, mountains and desert within one trip. Families can combine the Atlas villages, the Atlantic coastline and the Sahara dunes without spending the entire holiday on long transfers. This variety creates plenty of options: gentle walks in the mountains, time on the sand, short desert excursions, and easy sightseeing in the cities. It also helps you balance active days with calmer ones.
• Kid-friendly attractions and activities: Morocco has experiences that keep children curious and involved. In the cities, public squares and markets are full of sound, colour and movement. Many activities are hands-on: children can watch crafts being made, try simple workshops, explore gardens, and take short guided tours designed around family pace. There are also modern options, including water parks and wildlife parks. These experiences are entertaining while also teaching children about food, culture and daily life.

Exploring the colourful alleyways of Morocco’s old medinas can feel very different from home, in a good way. Many towns are walkable and easy to explore at a sensible pace, which helps children engage with local life up close. Families often find that Morocco’s friendly people, strong food culture, and mix of new experiences make travel with kids genuinely rewarding.

With so much to offer, Morocco stands out as a strong choice for a family holiday. Next, we cover the top family-friendly destinations – from energetic cities to laid-back beaches and desert adventures – followed by activity ideas, accommodation options and practical travel tips.

Best Family Destinations in Morocco

Morocco offers a range of destinations that suit families, each with its own strengths. Below are some of the best places in Morocco for family holidays, where both kids and parents will find plenty to do.

Marrakech – The Vibrant Red City

Marrakech’s famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square is a feast for the senses, especially in the evenings. Street performers, musicians, and colourful market stalls create a lively atmosphere that many families find exciting. A short walk here gives children a strong first impression of Moroccan culture.

Marrakech is often the first stop on a Morocco family holiday, and with good reason. The city mixes energy and tradition, with plenty of child-friendly moments along the way. In the heart of the old city, Jemaa el-Fnaa is busy with performers and music, and there are many safe, supervised viewpoints and nearby cafés for breaks. The souks can feel intense at first, but approached calmly, they become a fun “treasure hunt” for interesting objects, colourful fabrics and everyday scenes.

When you need a quieter hour, Marrakech has calmer spots too. The Jardin Majorelle is a shaded garden where children can walk around comfortably, and many families appreciate the slower pace. Another good option is a horse-drawn calèche (carriage) ride around the city walls near sunset, which is relaxing and suitable for younger children. With parks, family-friendly cafés and hotels with pools, Marrakech can balance busy sightseeing with downtime.

Agadir – Beaches and Family Resorts

A young child enjoys the beach on Morocco’s Atlantic coast. Agadir, with its vast sandy shoreline and gentle waves, is a popular coastal choice for families – offering safe swimming, beach play and plenty of sunshine.

If your family wants a beach base, Agadir is a strong option. This coastal city is known for its golden beaches and mild weather across much of the year. The main beach is long and gently sloped, which makes it ideal for paddling and supervised swimming. The promenade has cafés and snack stops, so it is easy to spend a whole day by the sea. Water sports are available too, and older children may want to try a beginner surf session in calmer conditions.

Agadir also has many family-friendly resorts and hotels with pools, kids’ clubs and evening entertainment, which can make the holiday simpler for parents. Beyond the beach, consider Crocoparc, a well-managed park with crocodiles and landscaped gardens. Children can see the animals safely from raised walkways, making it a good half-day trip.

Fes – A Journey into History

Fes (Fez) offers a different side of Morocco – a maze-like medieval city that often piques the curiosity of older children. The ancient Medina of Fes is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known as one of the world’s largest car-free urban areas. Walking the alleys feels adventurous, but keep younger children close because routes can be narrow and busy.

Many families visit viewpoints over the Chouara Tannery to see the traditional leather-dyeing process (it is also known for its strong smell). Fes is also well-suited to workshops. You can join a pottery cooperative where children try shaping clay or painting ceramics, or take a cooking class and learn how Moroccan meals are prepared. For museums, the Borj Nord arms museum and the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts can work well for children who are interested in objects and stories rather than long text displays.

Essaouira – Coastal Charm and Artistry

For a calmer pace, Essaouira on the Atlantic coast is an excellent balance to the larger cities. This breezy port city is compact, walkable and generally less intense than Marrakech or Fes. Families can move around more easily, and the coastal setting creates plenty of natural breaks from sightseeing.

The ramparts are fun to explore and give expansive sea views. Down at the harbour, children often enjoy watching the fishing boats and the everyday activity around the market. The beach is long and sandy, ideal for kites, ball games, and camel or horseback rides. The Atlantic can be cool, but the open space and fresh air suit families who want time outdoors.

Essaouira is also known for its arts and music. Small galleries are easy to browse, and you may come across live performances depending on the season. With relaxed cafés and a good range of hotels and riads with family rooms, it is an easy place to slow the pace of your itinerary.

Merzouga and the Sahara Desert – A Dune Adventure

A desert experience is a highlight for many families. Merzouga, situated in the Erg Chebbi dunes, is one of the best-known gateways to the Sahara. A typical family trip includes a camel ride towards sunset, time on the dunes, and a night in a desert camp. Many children talk about the desert days long after the trip, mainly because it feels so different from everyday life.

In the evening, camps often include traditional drumming, music and storytelling, and children can join in. Sandboarding is sometimes available, and even a simple time on the dunes can be enough. Many routes to the Sahara also include stops at the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou and the Atlas Film Studios in Ouarzazate. With a reputable guide, the Sahara can be adapted for families, including 4×4 support and camps with proper beds and private bathrooms where available.

Family tours in Morocco: trip ideas and popular routes

Historic towns, Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains

Morocco’s mix of culture, landscapes and key stopovers works well for family itineraries. This guide covers planning in detail, and you can also pair it with a structured route that includes places such as Fes and Marrakech. Many families add time in the Atlas Mountains, then travel via Aït Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate towards the Sahara for a camel trek and a night in camp. There is also the option to meet nomadic families along the way.

Coast, desert and activities to suit different ages

If you want a calmer pace with beach time built in, these routes are a good starting point: Atlantic Beach six-day tour and Luxury Atlantic six-day beach discovery, covering areas such as Essaouira, Souss Massa and Mirleft.

• Often best for younger children: shorter drive days, beach time, gardens, and simple medina walks.
• Often best for older kids and teens: Atlas days, desert dunes, and more active day trips.
• Popular add-ons: Atlas Film Studios, quad biking, horse riding and camel trekking.

If you prefer to plan independently, continue with the activity ideas and practical tips below. If you want a structured route with support, use the tour links above as a starting point and we can tailor the pace, hotel style and travel times to suit your family.

Family-Friendly Activities in Morocco

Beyond individual destinations, Morocco offers many family-friendly activities and experiences that can add variety to your holiday. Here are ideas that can work for younger children, teenagers and adults.

• Hands-on cultural workshops: Many cities offer family-oriented classes and workshops. In Marrakech and Fes, you can join cooking classes where the family learns to prepare classic dishes and then shares the meal. Craft workshops are also popular: pottery-making in Fes, small weaving demonstrations, or simple artisan sessions where children can make a small keepsake. These experiences are interactive and help children understand local skills and traditions in a practical way.
• Outdoor adventures: Morocco’s varied terrain makes it easy to build in outdoor time. Families can do gentle walking in the Atlas Mountains with a guide, often passing villages and farms along the way. Desert areas offer soft adventure, including sandboarding and (for older children) quad biking, with proper safety measures in place. Around Marrakech, water parks can be a helpful break during hotter months. On the coast, consider a beginner surf lesson or a relaxed camel ride along the beach near sunset. Wildlife options include the Souss-Massa National Park (south of Agadir, known for birdlife) and Crocoparc in Agadir.
• Historical explorations: Morocco has Roman, medieval and more recent history that can be made engaging for children with the right approach. The Roman ruins of Volubilis allow families to walk through an ancient city and see mosaics and stonework up close. The Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou feels dramatic and is often a highlight for children because it resembles a film set. In the cities, a guide can explain key places in the medina in a way that keeps children interested, including historic schools and caravanserais.

Family Resorts and Accommodation Options

Choosing the right accommodation is essential for a family holiday in Morocco. The good news is that there are plenty of family-friendly accommodation options, from beach resorts to smaller riads and self-catering stays.

• Family-friendly resorts: Resort hotels can be a practical choice with children, especially along the coast and near major visitor centres. Resorts in Agadir, Marrakech and along the Mediterranean coast often offer pools (including shallow children’s pools), kids’ clubs, playgrounds and buffet dining with simple options. In Agadir, all-inclusive beach hotels are common. In Marrakech, larger resort-style properties can work well as a base with space, pool time and organised activities.
• Traditional riads and boutique hotels: A riad stay can suit families who want a more traditional setting. Many riads offer family suites or the option to book multiple rooms around a courtyard. Staff are often helpful with children, and the Medina locations make it easier to return for rest breaks. Do check practical details such as stairs, room layouts and safety measures if travelling with toddlers.
• Self-catering apartments and villas: In destinations such as Agadir, Taghazout and the outskirts of Marrakech, self-catering stays can offer extra space and the convenience of a kitchen. This can help with picky eaters, nap routines and slower-paced travel. Always check the location and access to shops, and confirm transfer arrangements if you are not using a private driver.

Moroccan hospitality generally extends to children, and many hotels and riads can provide extra beds or cots on request. Reading recent reviews from other families can help you choose the best fit for your children’s ages and your preferred pace.

Tips for a Smooth Family Holiday in Morocco

Travelling in Morocco with children can be straightforward with a bit of planning. These tips help keep the trip comfortable and reduce day-to-day stress.

• Plan around climate and seasons: Weather varies by region and season. Summers can be very hot inland (including Marrakech and the desert), so schedule outdoor sightseeing for early mornings and late afternoons, and plan breaks during the peak heat. In winter, coastal areas are milder, but the desert and mountains can get cold at night, so pack layers. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) are often the easiest times for families because temperatures are warm without being extreme.
• Food and dining with kids: Moroccan food is flavourful but not usually hot or spicy. Tagines and couscous often include familiar ingredients (chicken, vegetables, potatoes), and grilled brochettes and fresh bread are reliable options for children. Tourist areas also have simple choices, including pasta and sandwiches. Pack a few familiar snacks for long drives or late meals, and keep bottled water on hand so everyone stays well hydrated.
• Health and safety: Morocco is generally safe for family travel, but standard precautions still apply. In crowded markets, keep children close. Carry a hotel card with the address, and consider a local guide in larger medinas to reduce the chance of getting lost. Car seats are not always available in taxis, so arrange private transfers if you need guaranteed child seating, or bring a portable seat for very young children. Pack a basic medical kit (including children’s pain relief and rehydration salts), use bottled or filtered water for drinking and brushing teeth, and choose well-cooked food if you are being cautious.
• Cultural considerations: Morocco is welcoming to children, and you may receive friendly attention in public. A small amount of cultural awareness helps the trip go smoothly: dress modestly where appropriate, ask before taking photos of people, and teach children a few polite words in French or Arabic. In markets, bargaining is normal, and it can be a fun, light activity for older children when kept friendly and calm.

With sensible preparation and a flexible pace, your Morocco family holiday can run smoothly. Mix busy days with downtime, keep travel days realistic for your children’s ages, and build in the activities that matter most to your family.

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Rebecca Hutley

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If you’re ready to embark on your own Moroccan adventure, contact our friendly travel planning service for personalised assistance in organising a Morocco family holiday that’s tailored to your needs and interests.

Article written by Rebecca Hutley.

Rebecca grew up in Africa and has spent her life travelling and working in the UK and around the world in both the corporate and personal development fields. She is co-founder of Moroccan Journeys with Mohamed Elhaoissi and lives in the UK and Morocco. She believes in the conscious management of business and the importance of personal growth. Rebecca is also a Reiki Master Teacher and runs Intensive Reiki Journeys in the Sahara desert. She spends her free time exploring the untouched parts of Morocco to ensure Moroccan Journeys is eclectic and unique in its offering.