Morocco Family Holiday Guide: Best Places for Kids and Parents Alike

Morocco is a magical destination for family travel, offering an exciting blend of adventure, culture, history, and natural beauty. From exploring bustling ancient medinas to riding camels over golden desert dunes, there are countless activities to delight travellers of all ages. Even more importantly, Moroccan culture is extremely family-friendly – locals tend to warmly welcome children everywhere, making families feel at home in everyday Moroccan life. If you’re considering a family holiday in Morocco (or even a Marrakech family holiday specifically), this in-depth guide will highlight why Morocco is ideal for families, the best places to visit with kids, and plenty of tips to ensure your trip is safe, fun, and memorable for both children and parents.

Why Choose Morocco for a Family Holiday

• Cultural Diversity & Warmth: Morocco’s rich cultural landscape is a mosaic of Berber, Arab, and European influences, providing an educational backdrop for families. Every day life in Morocco offers young travellers eye-opening experiences – from the call to prayer echoing over city rooftops to vibrant local festivals. Crucially, Moroccan society places a strong emphasis on family and children. It’s common for locals to fuss over and engage with kids; as one traveller observed, the country’s family-centred culture means Moroccans truly love kids and warmly welcome family travellers. This genuine hospitality turns routine moments (like visiting a market or sharing a meal) into heartwarming cultural exchanges for both children and adults.
• Variety of Landscapes & Adventures: Few destinations pack in as much geographic variety as Morocco. In one trip, your family can experience everything from sunny beaches to snow-capped mountains and rolling Sahara dunes. In fact, there are very few places on earth where you could ride a camel and take a surfing lesson on the same day – Morocco is one of them. This diversity of landscapes means endless adventure opportunities: hiking through Atlas Mountain villages, sand-boarding on desert dunes, swimming or surfing in the Atlantic, and wandering through lush oases. Each region offers its own thrills, ensuring no one (not even hard-to-please teenagers) will be bored.
• Kid-Friendly Attractions & Activities: Morocco is brimming with experiences that captivate children’s imaginations. In the cities, lively public squares become open-air theatres each evening – for example, Marrakech’s Jemaa el-Fnaa comes alive with street performers like snake charmers, storytellers, and musicians that leave kids wide-eyed. Many attractions are interactive or sensory-rich: kids can wander garden paths spotting turtles and smelling spices, or watch artisans weave rugs and make pottery using age-old techniques. There are also modern amusements such as water parks and wildlife parks. These activities not only entertain but also educate – a fun camel ride might lead to learning about desert ecosystems, while a cooking class teaches them about Moroccan food and culture in a hands-on way.

Exploring the colourful alleyways of Morocco’s old medinas can feel like stepping into a storybook. Many towns, such as the famous “Blue City” of Chefchaouen (pictured), are safe and walkable, allowing children to discover local culture up close. Families often find that Morocco’s mix of friendly people, vibrant sights, and new experiences makes travel with kids incredibly rewarding.

With so much going for it, Morocco truly stands out as a premier choice for a family holiday. In the next sections, we’ll cover the top family-friendly destinations – from energetic cities to laid-back beaches and desert adventures – followed by ideas for activities and practical tips.

Best Family Destinations in Morocco

Morocco offers a range of fantastic destinations that cater to families, each with its own appeal. Here are some of the best places in Morocco for family holidays, where both kids and parents will find plenty to love:

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 thrilling. Taking a stroll here offers children an unforgettable introduction to Moroccan culture.

Marrakech is often the first stop on a family holiday in Morocco, and for good reason. This bustling city mixes exotic atmosphere with child-friendly surprises at every turn. In the heart of the old city, the Jemaa el-Fnaa square entertains all ages with its acrobats, storytellers, and friendly snake charmers (from a safe distance!). Kids are mesmerised by the sights and sounds – one moment you’re watching a magician or a troupe of drummers, and the next you’re tasting fresh-squeezed orange juice from a market stall. Nearby, the souks (markets) are like a labyrinthine treasure hunt, full of interesting trinkets, colourful rugs, and perhaps a friendly artisan who might show your family how they weave cloth or tan leather.

For a break from the hustle, Marrakech offers peaceful retreats as well. The Jardin Majorelle is a prime example – this famous botanical garden is a calm, shaded oasis where children can explore freely among exotic plants, fountains, and bright blue structures. It’s even stroller-friendly, and little ones love spotting the turtles and koi fish in the ponds. Another family-friendly option is a ride in a horse-drawn calèche (carriage) around the city walls at sunset, which is both fun and relaxing. With numerous parks, cafés that welcome kids, and hotels with pools, Marrakech manages to balance excitement with comfort. It’s a vibrant city that gives families a warm welcome and an enticing introduction to Morocco.

Agadir – Beaches and Family Resorts

A young child enjoys the beach on Morocco’s Atlantic coast. Agadir, with its wide sandy shoreline and gentle waves, is one of the top coastal destinations for families – offering safe swimming, beachside play, and plenty of sunshine.

If your family loves sun and sand, Agadir is an ideal choice. This modern coastal city is famous for its golden beaches and sunny weather year-round. The beach in Agadir stretches for miles with a gentle slope into the sea, making it great for children to paddle and play. Many parts of the beach are monitored by lifeguards and even have playground equipment, which gives parents extra peace of mind. Agadir’s seaside promenade is lined with cafés and ice cream shops, so it’s easy to spend a full day by the ocean. Water sports are on offer too – older kids might try bodyboarding or even a surf lesson (the waves here are smaller and more beginner-friendly than other surf spots in Morocco).

Agadir is also known for its family-friendly resorts and hotels. Many resorts sit right along the beach and come equipped with large pools, kids’ clubs, and evening entertainment – essentially providing a stress-free environment where parents can relax while children stay happily occupied. (For instance, the Royal Decameron Tafoukt Beach Hotel and Villa Maroc in nearby Essaouira are often praised as top family resorts in Morocco with great amenities.) Beyond the beach, Agadir offers attractions like Crocoparc, a park home to hundreds of crocodiles and lush botanical gardens. Walking safely along raised platforms, kids can observe these fascinating creatures up close – an outing that’s both fun and educational. In short, Agadir delivers the classic “beach holiday” experience North African style, combined with Moroccan hospitality and plenty of activities for all ages.

Fes – A Journey into History

Fes (Fez) introduces families to a completely different side of Morocco – a step back in time, into a maze-like medieval city that sparks curiosity at every corner. Famous for having the world’s largest car-free urban area, the ancient Medina of Fes is a UNESCO World Heritage site that feels like a living history museum. Wandering its narrow alleys is an adventure for kids (just keep little ones close, as it truly is a maze!). Young travellers are often fascinated by sights such as the Chouara Tannery, where they can safely observe (and admittedly smell) the centuries-old process of leather making from a viewpoint. It’s a chance for children to see traditional craftsmen at work – a memorable real-world lesson in history and culture.

Fes is also a great place for hands-on learning. This city has long been a centre of art and learning, and families can join workshops to experience it firsthand. For example, you might take the kids to a family-run pottery cooperative where they can try shaping clay on a potter’s wheel or painting a piece of ceramics. (Engaging in a pottery class in Fes is highly recommended to get kids involved in a tactile cultural activity.) Alternatively, a cooking class in Fes is a delicious way for the whole family to learn about Moroccan cuisine – from rolling out dough for flatbread to mixing spices for tagine. The city also has several museums (like the Borj Nord arms museum or the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts), which often intrigue children with their unique exhibits. While Fes is more low-key in terms of nightlife and modern attractions, it offers families a rich, authentic immersion into Moroccan history that older kids and parents often find extremely rewarding.

Essaouira – Coastal Charm and Artistry

For a more laid-back atmosphere, head to Essaouira on the Atlantic coast. This breezy port city has a bohemian flair that appeals to creative souls of any age. Enclosed by historic ramparts and facing a wide crescent beach, Essaouira is wonderfully walkable and much calmer than the big cities. Families can stroll through its pedestrian-friendly medina without the traffic or intensity of Marrakech or Fes, which is a relief for parents and gives kids freedom to explore. The seaside ramparts (featured famously in Game of Thrones) are great fun for kids to clamber around, imagining pirate adventures while you enjoy the ocean views. Down at the harbour, children love watching the bustling fish market and the resident cats hoping for scraps – a little scene of daily life that is very different from home and quite entertaining.

Essaouira’s beach is long and sandy, perfect for flying kites, playing football, or even taking a camel or horseback ride by the water. (Swimming here is possible, though the Atlantic can be chilly; however, the wind that Essaouira is known for makes it the spot for kite-surfing. Teenagers might be keen to take a beginner kite-surf lesson, while younger kids simply enjoy watching the colourful kites dance above the waves.) The city is also known for its arts and music. There are art galleries in town that welcome browsing families, and you might catch street performances or live Gnawa music depending on the season. Essaouira’s relaxed cafes, many offering child-friendly menus, and its range of boutique hotels or riads with family suites make it very easy for a family holiday. It’s the kind of place where days slow down – a nice balance to the hustle of inland cities. Whether building sandcastles or shopping for handmade souvenirs in the souk, families find Essaouira a charming and refreshing seaside getaway.

Merzouga and the Sahara Desert – A Dune Adventure

No Morocco family holiday would be complete without a taste of the Sahara Desert. For most families, the ultimate highlight is a trip to Merzouga – a small town on the edge of the towering Erg Chebbi sand dunes. Here, an unforgettable adventure awaits: you can ride camels into the sunset, trek up and down orange-gold dunes, and spend a night under the stars in a desert camp. Children (and adults!) usually get very excited about the camel trek and camping – in fact, many kids count it as their favorite part of the whole trip. And it lives up to the hype: imagine your family caravaning on camelback over pristine dunes as the sun paints the sand pink, then arriving at a Berber camp where mint tea and friendly hosts greet you.

In the evening, there’s often a campfire with traditional drumming, music, and storytelling, which kids love joining in. They can try sandboarding or simply rolling down the dunes (nature’s giant sandbox!) while parents enjoy the incredible desert sunset. Sleeping in a comfortable Bedouin-style tent, you’ll wake up to a sky full of stars and possibly the most spectacular sunrise of your life. It’s an experience that families cherish long after their holiday ends. Beyond the overnight excursion, the journey to the Sahara can be an adventure too: many family tours stop at interesting sites en route, like the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou (a famous fortified village and UNESCO site) or the Atlas Film Studios in Ouarzazate, where movies were made – fun trivia for the kids. Despite being remote, the desert experience is quite accessible and can be tailored for families (4×4 support vehicles, camps with proper beds and even private bathrooms are available). With a reputable guide, a Sahara excursion is suitable for children – safe, enchanting, and deeply educational as it introduces them to the nomadic Berber culture and the awe-inspiring beauty of the desert.

Family-Friendly Activities in Morocco

Beyond sightseeing in specific locations, Morocco offers a host of family-friendly activities and experiences that can enrich your holiday. Here are some top activity ideas that cater to kids, teenagers, and adults alike:

• Hands-On Cultural Workshops: One of the best ways for children to connect with Moroccan culture is by doing things themselves. Many cities offer family-oriented classes or workshops. In Marrakech and Fes especially, you can join cooking classes where the whole family learns to make classic Moroccan dishes (think rolling couscous or mixing spices for tagine) and then enjoy the feast you created. Craft workshops are also popular: try a pottery-making class in Fes or an artisanal weaving workshop, where kids can get their hands dirty and create a genuine souvenir. These experiences are not only fun and interactive, but they also give children a deeper appreciation for Moroccan traditions and skills. Even younger kids who might not follow the history of a museum will remember making their own clay bowl or baking bread in a village oven.
• Outdoor Adventures: With its diverse terrain, Morocco is a giant playground for outdoor activities. Families who enjoy nature and adventure will have plenty of options. You can go hiking in the Atlas Mountains, choosing easy trails suitable for kids – perhaps a guided walk through Berber villages where children can see goats, donkeys, and friendly local children along the way. In winter, you can even play in the snow in the High Atlas or see it capped on mountaintops while you’re in the mild weather below. Desert areas offer soft adventure like quad biking or dune buggy rides across sandy plains (helmets on, of course, and generally for older kids/teens) and the simple joy of sandboarding down dunes on a sledge. Around Marrakech, an increasingly popular option is spending a day at a water park – for example, Oasiria or Aqua Fun park – where kids can splash in pools and zoom down waterslides to cool off from the city heat. On the coast, consider a family surfing lesson or a relaxed camel ride along the beach at sunset. And if wildlife fascinates your kids, add a trip to places like the Souss-Massa National Park (south of Agadir, known for birdlife and gazelles) or the above-mentioned Crocoparc in Agadir. With so many outdoor options, you can tailor the level of adventure to your family’s interests and your children’s ages.
• Historical Explorations: Morocco’s long history, ranging from ancient Romans to medieval Islamic dynasties and beyond, has left behind some remarkable sites that can captivate young imaginations. Visiting historical sites can be a fun scavenger hunt for kids if framed correctly. In the north, for example, the Roman ruins of Volubilis allow families to stroll through a real ancient city – kids can pretend they’re gladiators or emperors as they run amid the old pillars and elaborate mosaic floors. Guides on site can share vivid stories (in English, French, or Arabic) that bring the 2,000-year-old city to life. Similarly, the Kasbah of Ait Benhaddou (a fortified clay city used in many famous films) feels like stepping into a movie set or a castle from a fairy tale – children often love climbing up its winding pathways to reach the top for a panoramic view. In the cities, taking a guided tour can turn the medina into a living history lesson: a guide in Fes or Marrakech might show your family an ancient caravanserai (traveller’s inn) or the beautifully decorated Quranic school Medersa Ben Youssef and explain how students lived there centuries ago. These stories and settings can spark lots of questions from kids about “how people used to live.” Morocco’s history is also accessible through museums that tend to be quite kid-friendly – for instance, the Berber Museums (like the one at Majorelle Garden in Marrakech) display traditional clothing, jewellery, and tools in bright and visually engaging ways. By weaving in tales of sultans, explorers, and merchants, you can turn Morocco’s historic sites into an adventurous time-travel experience for the whole family.

Family Resorts and Accommodation Options

Finding the right place to stay is an important part of planning a successful family holiday in Morocco. The good news is that Morocco has a wide range of family-friendly accommodation choices – from traditional guesthouses with character to sprawling beach resorts with all the amenities. Here are some options to consider:

• Family-Friendly Resorts: If you’re looking for a stress-free stay with children, Morocco’s resort hotels can be a great choice, especially along the coast and in major tourist centres. Many resorts in Agadir, Marrakech, and along the Mediterranean coast cater specifically to families. They typically offer features like swimming pools (often multiple, including shallow kiddie pools), kids’ clubs with supervised activities, playgrounds, and buffet restaurants with child-friendly options. For example, in Agadir, there are all-inclusive beach resorts such as the Royal Decameron Tafoukt Beach Hotel, and further north on the Mediterranean, resorts like Banyan Tree Tamouda Bay (near Tetouan) combine luxury with family-oriented services. In Marrakech, some larger hotels and resorts (like the Murano Resort or Aqua Mirage Club) provide a resort-style experience with extensive gardens, waterpark features, and childcare services – a relaxing retreat after busy days of sightseeing. These resorts allow parents to unwind by the pool or at the spa while kids enjoy organised games or even nightly mini-discos, knowing that everyone is safe and entertained on-site.
• Traditional Riads and Boutique Hotels: For families who want a more authentic Moroccan experience, staying in a riad can be wonderful. Riads are traditional houses, often located in the old medinas, built around an interior courtyard. Many have been converted into intimate guesthouses. A number of riads offer spacious family suites or the option to rent out the entire house (handy for larger families or multi-generational groups travelling together). The courtyards often have small plunge pools or fountains, which kids enjoy, and the décor – think colourful tilework, carved wood, and maybe even a resident cat – gives a real sense of place. The staff in riads are famously accommodating and can feel like extended family, doting on children with extra treats like orange juice or cookies. In cities like Marrakech and Fes, staying in a riad puts you right in the heart of the old city, so you can easily pop back for a rest or nap during the day. Just keep in mind that because riads are historic buildings, rooms can be spread over multiple floors around a courtyard, and stairs may be steep – so it’s wise to check if they have child-safety measures if you have toddlers. Also, in a quiet riad, the sound does carry, so rambunctious kids might occasionally need a reminder to use indoor voices (or you might opt for a more private villa or hotel instead).
• Self-Catering Apartments/Villas: In some destinations (like Agadir, Taghazout, or even the Marrakech outskirts), you can find apartment rentals or villa stays that are great for families. These often provide more space, multiple bedrooms, and the convenience of a kitchen. Having a kitchen can be a lifesaver with picky eaters or babies – you can prepare simple meals or warm up milk on your own schedule. A private villa with a pool can also give the family a chance to have downtime together away from any crowds. This option is ideal for families who prefer a bit more independence or who are on a slower-paced holiday (for example, a week-long stay in one place rather than moving around). Just ensure the location is practical – being within a short walk or drive of groceries and attractions, or having a host who can arrange transfers, will make things easier.

No matter where you stay, Moroccan hospitality means that hosts and staff are typically very welcoming to children. Many hotels and riads will provide extra beds or cribs upon request, and some even offer babysitting services if parents want a short break or an evening out. When booking, it’s a good idea to read recent reviews by other families – they can offer insight into how suitable the property is for kids. With the right accommodation, your family will have a comfortable home base to recharge each day, which definitely contributes to a happier holiday for all.

Tips for a Smooth Family Holiday in Morocco

Travelling in Morocco with kids is an adventure, and a little preparation goes a long way toward keeping everyone safe and happy. Here are some practical tips to ensure your family holiday in Morocco goes smoothly:

• Plan for the Climate and Seasons: Morocco’s weather varies by region and season, so pack accordingly. Summers can be very hot, especially inland (e.g. Marrakech or the desert), so make sure everyone has sun hats, high SPF sunscreen, and light cotton clothing to stay cool. Plan outdoor sightseeing for mornings or late afternoons to avoid the midday heat, and take breaks in the shade or indoors (a good time for that museum or a swim back at the hotel pool) when the sun is strongest. In winter, coastal areas remain mild, but the desert and mountains get cold – bring layers and warm jackets for the evenings if you’re visiting between November and March. If travelling in the peak of summer with young children, consider focusing on cooler areas like the mountains or the Atlantic coast, or ensure your itinerary includes hotels with air-conditioning and pools. Also note the best times for a family trip are generally spring (March-May) and autumn (September-October) when temperatures are pleasantly warm but not extreme.
• Food and Dining with Kids: Moroccan cuisine is flavorful but not typically spicy-hot, and many dishes actually appeal to kids’ tastes. Tagines and couscous often feature familiar ingredients like chicken, beef, carrots, potatoes, and mild spices – so don’t be surprised if your child tucks into a plate of couscous with veggies quite happily. Grilled brochettes (kebabs) and fresh bread are other safe bets that most children enjoy. If your kids are picky eaters or have dietary restrictions, you’ll still manage just fine. Larger restaurants in tourist areas often have pasta, sandwiches, or even pizza on the menu, and hotel buffets always include simple options. Moroccan food can also accommodate various dietary needs – for example, vegetarians can find delicious veggie tagines, and fruit is abundant for snacks. That said, it’s wise to bring along some familiar snacks from home for emergencies (long drives or when a tour runs late and hunger strikes). Street food like warm msimen pancakes or fresh orange juice can be great for a quick treat, but do use common sense: stick to stalls that are busy (indicating the food turnover is good) and properly cooked items. And of course, staying hydrated is key; carry bottled water (inexpensive and widely available) and remind everyone to sip regularly, especially in the heat. With a bit of flexibility, you’ll find that dining in Morocco is one of the pleasures of the trip – and an adventure for the kids’ taste buds.
• Health and Safety: Overall, Morocco is considered a safe place to travel with family – millions of tourists visit every year without incident, and locals genuinely look out for children. Still, it pays to take precautions as you would anywhere. In crowded markets or busy streets, keep children close at hand (use a baby carrier or child harness for toddlers in the souks, since strollers are hard to manoeuvre on uneven lanes). Make sure everyone knows the address of your hotel or riad (grab a card from the front desk) in case you get separated, and consider hiring a local guide in the medina so you can explore without worrying about getting lost. When it comes to transport, note that seat belts and car seats are not universally available in taxis and older vehicles. If you plan on a lot of road travel and have very young kids, you might bring your own portable car seat or request transfers through private drivers who can provide them. Always use reputable tour operators for activities like desert trips or mountain excursions – they will maintain safety standards and have contingency plans (like proper vehicles, first aid kits, etc.).
• Health-wise, no special vaccinations are required for Morocco beyond the routine ones, but it’s smart to travel with a basic medical kit. Pack any regular medications your family needs (in your carry-on), along with child-safe pain/fever reducers, motion sickness meds if needed, and rehydration salts in case of an upset tummy. To avoid tummy troubles, use bottled or filtered water for drinking and brushing teeth, and encourage kids to not swallow water in baths or showers. Peel raw fruits or wash them well, and favor food that’s been cooked thoroughly. Street food can be tempting (and many families do enjoy it without issues), but if you’re unsure about a particular stall’s hygiene, err on the side of caution – perhaps choose that busy grill stand over the one with food sitting out. In case someone does fall ill, know that pharmacies are common in cities and towns, and pharmacists often speak some English or French and can dispense medications for minor ailments. Travel insurance that covers family medical needs and travel changes is highly recommended, just for peace of mind.
• Cultural Considerations: Moroccan culture is very welcoming to children, and your family will likely receive kind attention wherever you go. That said, teaching kids a bit about local customs will enrich your experience and show respect. For instance, explain that some places (like religious sites) require modest clothing, so your teens may need to wear longer shorts or trousers that day, and everyone should have their shoulders covered when appropriate. Morocco is a Muslim-majority country, so while it’s quite liberal in tourist areas, being culturally sensitive is appreciated. Encourage children to ask before photographing people (they can learn a few French or Arabic words to be polite, like “s’il vous plaît” or “shukran” for thank you). Moroccans typically adore kids and might pat your child’s head or pinch their cheek affectionately – let your child know this is a sign of friendliness. In the markets, bargaining is the norm; involving your kids in the process (even just to watch or help choose items) can be fun and break the ice with shopkeepers. By observing how locals do things – whether it’s greeting with a handshake and a hand over the heart, or sipping mint tea slowly – your children will pick up on the beauty of Moroccan etiquette. These small interactions often become meaningful memories and learning experiences from the trip.

By keeping these tips in mind and maintaining a flexible, open-minded attitude, you’ll set your family up for an incredibly smooth and enriching journey. With just a bit of preparation, you can focus on making wonderful memories together, and Morocco’s friendly people and inspiring sights will take care of the rest.

Contact us for more information.

Rebecca Hutley

#Travel #MoroccoTravel #FamilyHolidays #SaharaTours

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.