Introduction to Family Holidays in Morocco

Morocco is the perfect family holiday destination for people who are world travelers and adventurers by nature. It looks like a little kaleidoscope whose colors change as fast as the landscapes. Mountains, beaches, desert – there is so much to see and do! People are extraordinary, and as soon as you step out of a hotel and make the first step into the street, you will see how absolutely surreal and magnificent the place is where you are. And the smells… the smell in Morocco is constantly changing, following you from dawn to the last hours of the night, the time to hit the bed. So, when planning to spend a couple of weeks around the country, you have to understand that this is not a “lie down on a beach / float in a pool” type of holiday. Is energy, patience, and enthusiasm required? Yes, and at the end of each day you fall into the comfortable bed in the comfort of your accommodation (and choose it well, because after many hours in the heat some facilities are a real relief).

People will tell you what never to do and where never to go. The essential thing is to travel with an open mind. It is not necessary to belittle the concept of safety, because, as in many other tourist destinations, Morocco is a “victim” of some negative perceptions that are difficult to change. It is not dangerous; indeed, it is safe if traveling with proper precautions.

2. Best Time to Visit Morocco

Before we suggest any of the following family activities for those planning a holiday in Morocco, it is important to know the best time to visit the country. The climate varies according to season and region. Late May to September would be a good time to visit the Atlantic and Mediterranean beaches. While the north coast can be visited all year round, the south coast is too cold for children to swim from October to March. From November to April would be the best time to visit the desert, as in the summer it gets very heavy with temperatures that rise above 40°C. Imperial cities, the mountains, and the ski resort can be visited all year; however, in the summer it can get very hot. Those who are planning to visit the desert during the winter should note that temperatures after sunset can get very low, and it is always better to wear layers to keep warm. Moreover, intimate family ski resorts can be found in the Atlas Mountains, and if a family would like to try and have a traditional Moroccan Christmas, the nicest places to be are the mountain restaurants close to Marrakech. Ski accessories can be rented on site, and ski packages can be found for very decent prices.

2.1. Why October is Ideal for Families

October is probably the best month of them all in which to make a family holiday to Morocco. It is still warm and sunny in this part of the world, but generally cooler and far more comfortable for traveling families than the scorching summer heat of July and August. The comfortable atmosphere in the country at this time of year also extends to the tourist industry and the people in Morocco who are at work in it. In restaurants, on average, there are more staff for fewer tourists who still visit, and that results in better, friendlier service and a less rushed experience for your family. Shopkeepers are also less stressed in October and generally more pleasant to haggle with, and the spirit in the country is a lot more relaxed. In October, you can often do without booking hotel accommodation well in advance. This is a real boon for a party that wishes to travel independently and at its own pace. This situation is partly because there are fewer tourists during these late summer months, but also because family holidays are not in school holiday time. Family-age children, then, will not be around in the normal large, chaotic numbers which mad crowds of small, excitable kids can become. And can be! The pinch of Ramadan is also over by October, so the weekends are great opportunities to mix with and be entertained by the local families on big nights out in the Jemaa and other town and city squares with their carnival atmosphere.

3. Top Family-Friendly Destinations

Morocco has many beautiful destinations that are perfect for families traveling with kids. Whether you want to experience the vibrant culture, spend a few days at the beach, or enjoy the tranquility of the mountains or the desert, Morocco has it all. Here is a list of the top family-friendly destinations in Morocco to consider for your next family holiday.

Marrakech Nicknamed the “Ochre City,” Marrakech is the perfect destination for families that love exploring. In Marrakech, you can visit the many small tanneries, artisan workshops, and spice shops. When the children get tired from wandering around these busy medinas, invite them to take a ride on a colorful horse-drawn caleche or a donkey. At some point, they’re sure to spot a snake charmer, making the visit even more authentic. For visiting groups on guided tours, weaving through these narrow archways can also be an unforgettable adventure. It is around 10-15 degrees cooler in the nearby countryside that you can visit for half a day in a caleche, but on site at the Souks, stallholders know as well as most that they have a good chilled fruit juice or icy Pepsi to hand. Most experienced Moroccan families agree that Marrakech center is intense, visually stimulating, but perhaps best enjoyed in lots of brief sessions rather than in one concentrated lump. Take up all your hosts’ ideas on options for a dip in a hotel pool; it might just preserve your sanity.

3.1. Marrakech: A Cultural Hub

Marrakech is one of the most important cities in Morocco, historically, culturally, and economically speaking. It even gave its name to the country itself. Not only is it a city with a very important history in the construction of the territory, but it is also the center of a turbulent past marked by revolutions, uprisings, and religiousness, and the main tourist hub. The city experienced its greatest prosperity during the reign of the Saadian sultans, which is evidenced by the enormous wealth of the monuments in the medina and its golden age at the end of the 19th century when Marrakech became a showcase of wealth for the powerful of this world. Despite this, no other city preserves its medina as Marrakech does, and both tourists and locals continue wandering through hundreds of adobe and red brick alleyways with artisan stalls, charming hotels with inner courtyards and fountains, food kiosks, and tea houses with terraces from which to contemplate the sunset.

Marrakech, the Red City, is an excellent choice for your next family vacation in Morocco. But not only is the history that this city can give you, but also a trip full of authentic experiences with your family. We were lucky enough to spend a few days experiencing the best activities for families in Marrakech, a magical city full of rituals for an almost magical experience. We actually visited tourist places with a family focus, and we discovered that it is possible to go beyond the basic attractions for children and make discoveries that left us all speechless. For our two-week trip across Morocco, we had decided to spend the first and last days in Marrakech since it was the closest city to the airport, and the truth is that we do not regret our choice at all.

3.2. Fes: A Journey Through History

You could pick any street here and ask to explore it, digging deep with every twist and turn, golden light filtering up through the carved plaster, and setting the mosaic floors sparkling. Explore palaces, Ibn al-Ezra Hall, and 14th-century university Al-Qarawiyyin. On the weekends, you can explore a half-day tour of the city. It includes strolling through the labyrinthine streets in Fez el Bali. You can browse the souqs and get lost in the sights, sounds, and smells. Drive to the Royal Palace and get a photo with the guard before visiting the Mallah, which houses over 3,000 manuscripts.

You can also visit the Medersa el Attarine, a former educational institute with beautiful mosaic tiles and decorations, and also the Funduq El-Najjarrine, which was a merchant hostel and now houses the Museum Nejjarine Arts and Crafts. It features a unique collection from around the country. You can then sit back and see the beauty of the entire old Medina from a lookout point on the square of Fes. You can crack a walnut with the locals and drink mint tea at the Arab baths of Moulay Yacoub; the water is natural, rich in minerals, and flows at 54°C. Be sure to try the Massage Wellness Spa, where you can relax for the last hours of the day in a traditional Turkish bath.

3.3. Agadir: Beach Fun for Everyone

Heading on to the Atlantic coast for a beach holiday? Then Agadir is the place for you. Here in the biggest and best beach resort of Morocco, you will be able to enjoy the promenade of 10 kilometers lined with cafes, restaurants, and ice cream parlors, the long sandy beach, and even beach sports such as kite surfing, windsurfing, and surfing. At the huge beachfront, you can also rent beach chairs with thatched roof umbrellas, parasols, and tents. This is a peaceful place to enjoy the entire day away from the sun, with playground areas to keep children entertained and some of the better water conditions to take a refreshing swim in the ocean. If beach sports are your thing, you can try sailing or go for a lovely sunset horse ride on a calm and cool day later in the day when the sun goes down a little. Agadir is also home to a mini golf course, an air rifle shooting activity course, and a diving site at the unique island off the coast. While you and your kids may not care about that, to help you relax a little, the island is a stunning place with a bird sanctuary and a hotel with picturesque views of the Moroccan coastline.

3.4. Chefchaouen: The Blue Pearl

Chefchaouen is a small town located in the Rif Mountains, which are noted for their buildings in shades of blue. That is why it is called the Blue Pearl. The city is one of the main tourist points. For us, among all the cities in Morocco, it was the most different from all the others. Its streets are the cleanest, its buildings adorned with flowers and plants enhance the exteriors, and there is a relaxed atmosphere. No one bumps into you in the streets, not even on a bike or motorcycle. It is just a special and magical city that captivates us. We stayed at Casa Anna in the Medina. The views from the terraces are beautiful, with mountains and the blue of the town. The prices on the terraces are justified not for the quality of food but for the views.

For those who like hiking, we can recommend a route to the big waterfall. We found it during a walk through the Medina, looking at the available routes to the mountain. It is a route of about 6 kilometers and a three to four hour trip, including time to stop at the waterfall to cool off. To get there, we recommend getting out of town to Hospital Mohammed V, and at the last house in Fez, there is a welded gate that separates the house property from the road, which is seen as the path that follows. Shortly after, we begin to descend a path and cross many branches; it is very easy to do this, assuming that the most walked path is the right one. When we arrived at the waterfall, it was refreshing, especially for the children who started playing in the water.

3.5. The Sahara Desert: An Adventure Like No Other

Encompassing around one-third of the country of Morocco, the Sahara Desert is in a league of its own. Covering an area of nearly 3.6 million square miles, the greatest desert in the world offers families an adventure like no other. The silky sand dunes can go on and on, and camel treks are a traditional way to travel in and get a taste of nomadic desert life, typically concluding with camping beneath the stars. In Merzouga, the big draw is the Erg Chebbi dunes, which during the day look as though they have been lifted from a picture book, and it’s these that attract most tourists to the area. Other desert regions include M’hamid, Zagora, and Erg Chigaga, all offering different treasures and natural beauties of the desert. There are many day trip options from Taroudant and Marrakech, or spending a night or two is the best way to savor the Sahara.

Adventure levels, comfort, and accessibility can encompass a number of areas, as there is a wide variety of tours and accommodation choices available. As a reward for the long journey, there may be the chance to mount a camel for the last day’s trek into the desert, spending the night in a Berber camp. Sleeping beneath a dark mantle of stars, the only source of light from the flickering fire, fireflies, and a full moon, and waking up to the dazzling shades of sunrise over the horizon – a desert trip is an adventure to feed the soul. The cool mornings will help to continue the longer travel days. Morning activities such as camel or horseback riding, a surprise picnic breakfast, and a time to discover the Berber village make a stop along the Dades Gorge worthwhile. For private tours for smaller groups or families, ask where the stop will be. Note that access to some gorges may require a vehicle.

4. Activities for Families in Morocco

Morocco is a great destination to spend a holiday with children. The country is a fascinating mix of old and new: you find bustling, colorful city life as well as quiet rural areas; modern amenities and ancient traditions; luxurious hotels and cozy, simple countryside guest houses. But anyone who has been to Morocco will tell you that it is the people that make the big difference—warm, welcoming, and especially loving towards children. There are many activities that are great fun for both kids and grown-ups and that provide an exciting way to experience the country and its culture. Cooking classes, having fun with camels, learning about Moroccan geometric patterns, finding out about ancient irrigation systems on a family trek, learning different crafts and techniques—together, it is double the fun! For all ages—camel treks are another unforgettable experience for adults and children alike. Traveling by camel is a true adventure, and no words can properly capture it the way a child’s happy laughter does. Camel rides fast become a favorite when put on the itinerary of kids visiting us—barely ever have I seen a grumpy face on the camel blankets!

Another age-old Moroccan tradition is the art of henna painting. It has a special place in Moroccan culture and is commonly practiced for many festive occasions, such as weddings, religious holidays, or festivities with family and friends. The intricate patterns and dark reddish-brown hue play a huge role in making any Moroccan wedding an unforgettable spectacle. This somewhat fearsome camel—stubborn, steadfast, and a most difficult companion—is not the majestic desert camel used for traditional caravans of days past, but one of more humble descent, albeit no less photogenic. A burro camel or ‘camel taxi’ is a great way to experience riding a camel as a family differently and to view things that are less easily seen by other means. Since small children have mixed feelings about the wildlife in Morocco (although what is not to like about camels, horses, donkeys, chickens, roosters, and cats!), taking a camel ride can set their minds at ease. An afternoon camel ride combines perfectly with a late afternoon visit to feed the animals before returning to our guest house or villa.

4.1. Exploring Traditional Markets

One of the best aspects of traveling to Morocco with kids is that Moroccans are very family-oriented, and you and your family will always feel welcome. There are numerous family-friendly activities to fill your Morocco vacation, from exploring the open markets or hiking in the beautiful High Atlas Mountains to the more relaxed activities of dining on traditional Moroccan food at local family-friendly cafes and enjoying the beach. Not to mention, kids of all ages adore the horse and buggy rides through the cities. The highly energetic and unusual are some of the best aspects of markets in Morocco. There are many traditional Moroccan markets, or souks, located in big cities such as Marrakech and Fez, which should not be missed. The best day to visit the markets is on Sunday because there are more sellers than at any other time. Markets are great places for families to take in the unique sights, sounds, and smells of Morocco. Also, remember to look for the snake charmers who often entertain in the square of Marrakech.

4.2. Camel Riding in the Desert

In Arab culture, the camel is considered a magical animal, and you can share the experience by riding one. Camels have carried people through the desert for centuries, played an integral role in the spice trade, and helped Berber tribes find oases. In Morocco, you can ride a camel in the desert, usually for a few hours, but some tours are available for overland trips that last two days. Morocco is also an excellent place for sunset camel rides, offering a stunning backdrop of colors and contrasts between golden sands and clear blue skies. To ensure a good experience around a respected animal, find a well-reviewed tour company to ensure appropriate care and a comfortable and sustainable experience. Riding a camel is also a valuable educational experience for children. It will teach them about the culture and the stories behind the people who have lived in the desert for centuries. Ensure each child’s safety through a guide and ask as many questions as you think they will be curious about before going on a camel tour.

4.3. Cooking Classes for Families

Cooking classes are a hit in Marrakech. All sorts of cuisines are taught at these classes. Local markets that supply the freshest and finest ingredients are also part of the grand package. Cooking alongside children is a wonderful and satisfying experience. Families learn a lot. Little members of the family become involved in picking seasonal fruit, Omega-3 rich fish, fresh vegetables, green salad, organic chicken, cereals, omega-3 whole grain eggs, mushrooms, and discovering all the secrets of the succulent and perfect Moroccan cooking. These family cooking classes provide hands-on traditional as well as contemporary local and international inspired recipes. Moroccan and Arabic cuisine, together with other types of cuisine, forms a great base to riff on and prepare later French, Italian, or fusion dishes. Upon request, culinary tours, catering, party hosting, and intimate event planning are arranged at these places. The facilities are all climate-controlled, so both in winter’s chilling temperatures and blistering hot summer, the learning and cooking experience has no interference. Culinary lectures, hands-on instruction, and an emphasis on balanced, organic living create one of the memorable activity ideas offered in Marrakech. They help families beyond the cooking class sessions too. The family benefits do not stop there. Food served at the get-together is healthy, simple, and delicious. The aroma of organic foods leaves everyone’s breath taken away in awe. Upon cooking in the cooking class, there is no sign of harmful operations. It is the safest and healthiest operation ever performed while on vacation. The family holiday ends up being so unique that they share their experiences while discovering new international cuisines. In particular, the exotic spices from the family cooking classes area are so rich and blend the natural flavors so well that the exotic taste imaginable gets a place on their tongues. They might doze off with a feeling in their mouths of the most luscious and heavy of royal dishes.

4.4. Hiking in the Atlas Mountains

Hiking is a good activity that can bring your family closer together. It means everyone will be away from the distractions of modern living, allowing them to really get to know each other again without modern pressures. With no TV, PlayStations, or other electronic gadgets to drain your children’s minds, there will be nothing else to do but discover, recharge, and rebuild family relationships. It is possible to arrange a guided trek to the summit of the highest peak in North Africa. Alternatively, you could simply enjoy a day’s excursion where you can cross the river many times to visit some of the several waterfalls that trickle down lushly terraced hills.

Trekking in the mountains is an activity that the whole family can enjoy. The weekly group tours are organized by local guides, so they will know the mountains inside out. This means that you can explore the real Morocco knowing that you are in the safe hands of those who are at home in the mountains, not to mention local villagers who will share their culture and lifestyles with you. What better, more enriching pastime could there be than a family hiking holiday?

4.5. Visiting Historical Sites

For a true cultural experience, Morocco is a must. It symbolizes the essence of North Africa with its crowded markets and Islamic mystique. Moroccan families hankering for an adventure along with historical knowledge will be attracted to the architectural excellence of Marrakech, a city rich in history dating to the 12th century. With its pink adobe buildings surrounded by six-foot-high ramps, it is a listed World Heritage site. It is close to the Atlas Mountains, the administrative center of Zagora, and the heart of Toubkal National Park. Families can enjoy this peaceful setting where the locals can share Berber history and customs. In Marrakech, families can visit the Medina, Bahia Palace, and Saadian tombs. Trekking activities, including camel treks and mule trekking, will keep your family enthralled. Whether you are going away for a short while or for an extended vacation of two weeks, Morocco is a great place for families to share a special time together. Children will get the chance to learn more about a different culture and life in the countryside.

4.6. Beach Activities in Agadir

Agadir is an extremely popular tourist destination in Morocco, mainly due to the fact that it has the most beautiful, long sandy beach on the Atlantic coast. However, the town is also quite modern and nothing like you would expect in Morocco. It has a vibrant seafront promenade, restaurants, and cafes lining its soft sand and is just perfect for watersports and sunbathing. Its very relaxed and safe atmosphere makes it such a pleasant place and a popular place for kids. To help you make the most of your beach visit, I have put together the top beach activities in Agadir.

Beach fun is not complete without some action and what better place to do that than a beach with waves. Agadir beach has the perfect waves for learning to surf and little ones can enjoy bodyboarding. The right-hand beach break at Aourir is also quite gentle, which is perfect for beginners too, or a kayak trip. Paragliding is a bit out there but flying around in the sky with a parachute attached to a boat sure sounds fun. Paddleboarding is a bit tamer and is great for little ones. Should you not feel like doing much, you only have to rent a sunbed and relax. The beaches in Agadir are in pristine condition, making it very pleasant for laying around and watching the kids having fun.

4.7. Cultural Festivals and Events

Music, dance, storytelling, poetry, horse competition, weaving, and pottery are essential elements of the cultural events in the Draa Valley. Forty days before the centers of Imilmaiss, Amezrou, and M’hamid come together in a camel race, all kinds of cultural activities are organized to ascertain the camel’s readiness enforced on the worst track of the Draa Valley. The public plays a role in the refurbishment of the local Ksours, the houses of the local pottery, silver, and textile makers, during the period when all living things have to adapt to the heavy increase in heat. The purpose of this festival is to present these local life elements to the visitor and appreciate the historical value of the Ksours and the track they are part of. In the El Kelaa M’gouna rose festival, the Berber tribes from Jbel Saghro and Jbel Sarho Massif visit the main Amazigh village of southern Morocco. Villagers represent various dating traditions in the Ait Bougomez Valley, from women restoring the gardens to a much sharper dress taste of the local people in their 40s and 50s. The outdoor public acts as an important audience while the folk dance of the Oxford Bougmez dance company explores traditional themes, presenting a synchronized work of fencers and charmingly adorned musicians and singers. When the sun goes down, more and more young people play and watch the dancing, singing, and fluting break by focusing on the timeless elements from work clothes and gear. The festival presents the tangible and important cultural heritage preserved in this fertile valley at an informal and spontaneous level, using a mix of professional and amateur performers.

5. What to Pack for a Family Trip to Morocco

As in most embarkations with children, packing for a trip to Morocco can be a bit daunting. Temperatures can vary, depending on the length of our visit, from quite cool to very hot. Since most of the activities during your visit are outdoors, sun protection is a must. I also swear by shoes with ankle support and closed-toe; the streets can get pretty narrow and rough, and you might need to carry your little ones for a bit. Carrying a light rain jacket is also a good idea if we are entering the rainy season. However, rain odds are not too high, so pack light, and a weather poncho will be fine. Water is not drinkable if we are used to bottled water, so including a portable purifier for water when you are out and about might be a good idea if trying to reduce the usage of single-use plastic.

1. My Passport Cover, 2. Hat, 3. Water Shoes, 4. Bug Spray Wipes, 5. Travel Buddy Harness, 6. Action Sandals, 7. Sunscreen Stick.

5.1. Clothing Essentials for October

UK citizens will require a visa to enter Morocco. Make sure to apply in advance. It’s always best to check the travel advice provided by the UK government for specific, up-to-date advice. When packing for a family holiday in October, prepare for the weather without splurging on extra warm clothing. During this time, Marrakesh temperatures will stay around the 30 degrees Celsius mark, with cooler nights slipping between 12 and 14 degrees Celsius. In Essaouira and Agadir, the coastal breezes create a bit of variation in the daytime temperatures, but nothing as significant as that of the evening cooling. Sunsuits and sandals, sarongs and hats will take up most of the space in your luggage, so there will be plenty of room to bring back beautiful Moroccan keepsakes. In October, the bright rays of the sun will mostly dominate the Moroccan skies. Shorts, vests, vests with built-in bras, light jumpers, sandals, sunglasses, sunhats, and sun lotion are the most essential holiday items to pack. Low-cost high street stores in the UK sell sun lotions and after-sun solutions specifically produced for children. Buy these in small quantities to save packing space if this works out cheaper. These products can be expensive in Morocco. Then you will be able to pop into small shops and those in the heart of the Medina to buy anything little thing that may have been missed off the checklists. Don’t bring a thin coat or light mac. Only half an hour of light rain is expected in October and will not require packing waterproofs.

5.2. Health and Safety Items

If you are an EU citizen or a citizen of one of the countries that have signed an agreement with Morocco, the following is valid for you: It is recommended that you take out travel health insurance to cover the costs of medical aid and the treatment of diseases. Even if the costs are flat, neither helmets, bells, nor any other recommended safety aids exist, let alone are used. Theories such as the “reflection of the sun” or the “noise terrifies the horse” may have influenced us Europeans now and then, but as we all know, most accidents happen just because someone is stupid. Keep your first aid kit also in your car; it can help when passing an accident. Nowadays in Morocco, wearing a safety belt remains optional in the back of any car, so don’t be surprised if another tourist or a Moroccan is not using the belt while oversized buses aren’t seen anymore. Retrieving for a lost card is a pain in the neck and means more than ten percent profit for most finders. If you have to bring your own medication, an EU citizen should remember that an “authenticity card” is mandatory in addition to the European regulations for your drug trading.

5.3. Travel Documents and Money

Travel Documents You will need a valid passport for your visit to the Kingdom of Morocco. Please check that your passport is still valid. In case of loss or theft of your passport or other valuable articles, do not worry. The consulate general of your country in Casablanca or the honorary consulate in Marrakech will be of invaluable help to you. Your guide can provide the address and the telephone number of the nearest consulate or embassy to the site where you are staying. It is a useful precaution to make photocopies of your travel documents. You should take copies of the main pages of your passport and any visas, insurance documents, booking contracts, air or train tickets, and anything else you need. Take a set with you and leave a copy with another relative at home. Money in Morocco The national currency is the dirham, and the Moroccan economy is managed under a floating exchange rate system, so the rate of exchange varies according to supply and demand. It is impossible to predict how things will evolve. The dirham is usually directly indexed to a basket of different currencies: euros, US dollars, British pounds sterling, Japanese yen, Saudi riyals, and UAE dirhams. Since visitor numbers also vary based on the origin of holidaymakers, Moroccan banks continuously adapt their foreign currency quoting operations. Failing a relative appreciation of the domestic currency, inflation would result. Keep in touch with banks and approved money changers. The banking system is modern and dynamic, and banks have adapted to the electronic age by developing trading networks. You can find ATMs in all cities and nearly all tourist sites, as well as sun and sea holiday items. Banking transaction charges are generally set by the essential Gulf and all-inclusive holiday packages.

5.4. Entertainment for Kids

Although Morocco is not perceived as a highly ‘family-friendly’ destination, the Moroccan people love children and are always helpful and friendly towards families. For wealthy Moroccans, the most important thing in life is the family; consequently, you will find that children are well catered for in Morocco. Many Moroccans often decry the lack of activities available for their children, and many upper-middle-class Moroccans living in Casablanca and Rabat often send their children to boarding schools when they reach the age of seven. The reason is not to send them to a good school; there are many good private schools in Casablanca, Tangiers, and Rabat, but rather to get them out of Moroccan society that seems to offer them nothing but shopping, TVs, and games—to be replaced by Morocco with sunny beaches, bicycles, ponies, and mountain walks, something that they fear exists only in the West! Moroccan hotels do cater for children’s entertainment, as do many family bars and restaurants in Morocco’s major tourist centers. Cities such as Marrakech and Agadir offer a good array of entertainment for children, and arrangements can also be made for many outside activities. Hotels catering specifically for children are to be found in Agadir and Marrakech. The best resort in Agadir is a 4.5-star, 330-room hotel that offers a unique range of facilities for children, including a Kid’s World, a children’s playground, and a children’s swimming pool. All staff at this hotel are specially trained to entertain the children and to implement activities to suit kids of all ages. At a 5-star beach resort hotel, in many cases, however, it is not the organized entertainment that captivates—children can soon be taken by interest in the game of Boules—or they can be taken to play in the Souks, to ride the ponies at a local farm, or maybe to quad bike in the desert. On the outskirts of Essaouira, adjacent to a golf club, lies another haven for families, which boasts a whole array of facilities including heated and unheated pools, a tennis court, horse riding, an adventure playground, and a livestock farm.

6. Cultural Etiquette for Families

Out of respect for the culture, families should avoid public displays of affection among themselves, such as kissing and hugging. Dress modestly, with upper arms and thighs covered. Women are encouraged to cover their heads, even if only with a light chiffon scarf when in non-tourist areas. When given food or drink to try, use the right hand, as the left is traditionally used for cleaning the body. When accepting a gift, hold it with both hands and don’t open it in front of the giver. Expect to give some money to the meat grills, water sellers, or snake charmers, as these acts are performed by locals to earn a living and provide a photo opportunity for tourists. Families with small children will be welcomed with open arms. Moroccans are renowned for their affection and appreciation of children, and they value the importance of family. Prepare your children for the attention they will receive, usually in the form of friendly, well-meaning comments from both adults and children. Children who make the international gesture of holding out a camera in return for a photo may have the favor returned. In more developed areas, respect for toddlers is clearly demonstrated with the provision of park and playground facilities and motoring courtesy. With infants, accept the fact that diapers can be changed almost anywhere, so you can relax and take the baby in a backpack or front pack, sharing the joys of being close to your offspring.

6.1. Understanding Local Customs

So finally the big day is here and you are all set to pack your bags for the big family holiday. If it is abroad, there are a few things to remember when you get to a country with different customs, traditions, and ways of doing things. In some countries, they eat rice with their hands, and in parts of Africa and Morocco, you eat it from a communal plate. In Arab countries like Morocco, you should strictly use your right hand to eat! Here are a few tips to make things go smoother when you come to Morocco with your children: Always use your right hand; even left-handed people should avoid using their left hand, as it is considered unclean. Try not to seat yourself so that the soles of your feet point at others in the room or are directed toward the food or the body of somebody who is eating. Never touch food with your left hand when taking it from a communal plate. Only take the food from the side of the plate that is nearest the body; do not reach across the plate.

6.2. Tips for Respectful Interactions

Here are some tips for interacting with children in Morocco, particularly when taking photos. Though taking photos will likely be one of your highlights, be mindful and respectful of individuals’ feelings and experiences. There are too many times when I see children interacting with foreigners in a somewhat awkward or uncomfortable way, and it bothers me every time. It should never be that way. Picture time, and in particular, camera time should be a fun, one-time, or very few-time experience for a child in Morocco. You will leave; they will stay and continue with their life, school, and so on. Respect the interaction and honor it. Get to know the child in that moment, play with them, and be a child again. Make it fun for you and for them! They are so happy to be part of your moment in time. Do not encourage posing and telling children to wait; that position gets old really quickly, and then it becomes a job. It should always be fun for them. If possible, give them a chance to take a picture with your camera, and you can watch/select it together. They might enjoy looking at themselves, and you can find ways to engage digitally—it is a lot of fun. With little gifts, avoid giving things that don’t support them in their life, like candy; give quality over quantity. A plastic toy doesn’t last, but some photos or something practical will be remembered, valued, and appreciated. With all interactions, please have conversations respectfully, kindly, and know exactly why you are giving gifts or props.

7. Transportation Options in Morocco

1. The cheapest and most flexible way to travel through Morocco is by using the buses. There is a good network of buses already linking most Moroccan cities and towns, and even the most remote villages are usually covered by at least a couple of bus services a day. Furthermore, the buses usually offer a level of comfort that is on par with the trains and car hire, at a fraction of the price. The national train company has an extensive network connecting the major northern cities to the southern cities. Over the last couple of years, the company has invested large amounts of money into modernizing the rolling stock, and things are starting to look quite good, also for the general comfort of the travelers.

2. As road signs in Morocco are often in Arabic and French, it is not uncommon for tourists visiting Morocco to get lost in this country. A practical way to avoid this is to hire a local driver from a reputable company who can show you around and even offer some insightful information about the sites of Morocco. A car can be a great asset during your Moroccan break. There is no disputing that driving around can offer a level of flexibility when it comes to visiting the sites this North African kingdom has to offer. If you hire a car, you’ll need your driving license, your passport, and the usual hiring agreement covering the insurance and the potential damage excess.

7.1. Getting Around Cities

Taxi: Taxis, either Petit (small) or Gran (big) in the cities operate metered rates, so you don’t need to negotiate prices, but can expect drivers to try and charge a higher cost from tourists. From the airport, Petit taxis will take you to the city center. You are not obliged to take the first one in line; ask the price and judge whether it is fair. In the cities, drivers will either have their meter running, which will add up quickly, particularly in heavy traffic. If you are traveling through Casablanca, Rabat, Marrakech, Fes, or Tangier, a supplement of 50% is added between 20:00 and 06:00. Be sure to have coins if you are using the meter; taxi drivers often say they don’t have change for big notes. The big taxis generally operate outside the cities and they don’t have a meter, so ask the price in advance. A good approach is to ask someone how much this trip normally costs. In winter, a price anywhere in between MAD 200-250 from Fes to Volubilis was considered a normal price; between 350-450 was mentioned as a price you should refuse. Furthermore, try to understand if the driver is friendly and trustworthy, or otherwise keep searching.

Grand Taxi: Usually, these are older Mercedes cars, but in reality, they are still comfortable and many tourists even exceed the maximum capacity of passengers. Don’t be surprised if the chairs are not in the best state, and it can be a cold journey during winter evenings. These taxis operate on both a private basis, but you can pay in full and expect to get company on route to your destination. This means that this form of transport is relatively cheap. During the week, prices are lower than on the weekend, since people tend to get around more frequently during the weekend. Fares are not fixed, so you can expect to pay more after sunset until early in the morning, particularly in areas where no other transport is available. If you are in need of a grand taxi while in a city, it is good to know that they are generally stationed at a surveilled parking lot, waiting for customers.

7.2. Traveling Between Destinations

Travel in Morocco is surprisingly easy due to a well-established tourist industry. Besides renting buses and cars, travel agencies with a full range of services can arrange minibus tours from large population centers to various resorts and popular tourist destinations. Most coach tours of Morocco are arranged through a travel agent. Public buses provide economical service around the country, but there are regulations that must be observed when using these buses.

When hiring a taxi, always agree on a price before embarking on the trip. Prices escalate after dusk, but careful bargaining is the norm. Also, sharing a taxi between several passengers is permissible as well, while strange as it might sound, it is often necessary to share a taxi with the driver. Travel can still be in various degrees of discomfort and difficulty, as some areas have no vehicular roads, and camels become the only reliable form of transportation. In the mountains, many of the roads are tortuous and often in poor repair, and many places can only be reached by primitive paths or steep mule trails. Because of this, walking, mule travel, and horseback riding are still common in many areas of Morocco.

8. Family-Friendly Accommodations

If you are traveling with children, a 3-star hotel is the perfect solution for a comfortable and practical stay. The welcoming and warm atmosphere of the team will make your stay a pleasant and relaxing one. Its quality, traditional cuisine will make you discover the flavors of the Mediterranean and the richness of Moroccan cuisine. Your children will spend unforgettable moments enjoying the games, the swimming pool, and our large lawns. A holiday village for families located on the Atlantic coast, the Village Club is designed to offer you moments of relaxation and activities for all tastes in complete safety. The beaches facing the establishment offer the ideal environment for you and your children: clear sands, the softness of the waves, rich sea beds. With its numerous swimming pools, sports, and fun activities, the entertainment team offers young and old a real relaxation experience in complete safety, with confidence, whether you are on the edge of the Atlantic or in our vast flowered esplanade.

8.1. Hotels with Family Suites

Morocco has no shortage of plush palaces and beautiful riads with excellent facilities for children and families, coupled with warm and enthusiastic service. Many of the luxury options are dream destinations with extensive child-oriented facilities and can often arrange special experiences for kids, such as cookery or pottery classes and easy camel riding excursions. Not to be outdone are groups that have highly specific kid-friendly programs, as do often the larger and more family-oriented resorts of well-known chains. However, not every aspect of Moroccan society is familiar or comfortable with the culture of having casual restaurant diners or long and noisy poolside afternoons.

In many hotels, a special Family Suite is a must for families with sufficient sofas or additional beds and often the chance to connect two rooms. Some destinations make a superlative effort to ensure that even toddlers and parents have special services during their stay. Since these programs and facilities change constantly, it is always necessary to verify ahead of time a specific location. Non-luxury offerings can be few and far between, but at small guesthouses and allocated apart-hotels in Agadir, guests with kids will have much more choice and flexibility. Numerous riads in Marrakesh, Casablanca, Tangier, and Essaouira do not require children; many cater more to an adult clientele or are not equipped for families with babies or young children. Visiting astrologers may have a higher expectation that they will accept children and toddlers, as well as the challenges that come with them, before choosing a guesthouse or riad.

8.2. Riads: A Unique Stay

One popular characteristic of Moroccan cities is the abundance of traditional Moroccan homes converted into guest accommodations and restaurants. There are great options for staying in these unique buildings across the land. Marrakesh, for example, has over 800 of these old homes converted for travelers in the Medina. Anyone traveling to Marrakesh wanting to be at the vortex of where all the action is must certainly stay at a riad.

Staying at a riad while on a family vacation provides a unique experience for everyone. Kids are usually pleased with a neighboring pool if the riad does not have one, and parents will enjoy the home-cooked meals, historical references, personality, and privacy offered by the staff. Staying at a riad will provide a sense of living in one of the most exotic places on earth rather than being just a tourist.

8.3. Camping in the Desert

Situated in the south of Morocco, the Sahara Desert is a magnificent area to visit during our camping tour. We invite you to discover the southern destinations of Morocco by setting up a tent within the heart of the high golden sand dunes of Merzouga. Our guides are responsible and well-known in the desert of Erg Chebbi. You will walk and explore while having an adventure within the wide-open areas of the Sahara Desert. The camping tour provides a luxurious experience of traveling. Once you arrive in Merzouga, you will experience a camel or jeep tour to reach your camping point where the camping tents are already prepared. A traditional lunch and dinner are served in the only restaurant available. Surrounded by the best sights and dunes, the night will give you an impression of 1001 nights. The next day, unlike what happens at the restaurant, you will have a private shower in private rooms. After a tasty breakfast, return along the dunes either by camel trekking or relocate to wild camping in the luxurious tent, which will be built in the secret dune area where no one can see you; only the stars can silently observe your movement.

9. Safety Tips for Families Traveling in Morocco

Tourists from Western countries frequently complain about being hassled on the streets of Morocco. However, visitors from cultures that wouldn’t dare let a female family member walk the streets alone at night have been very shocked to discover that they could do so in Morocco with little difficulty. Despite this, tourists should always keep the safety of their family members in mind. While traveling in Morocco, common sense will keep your family safe from injury. If your family is on medication, they should always carry it in their carry-on baggage. A first-aid kit is always a good idea when traveling with children. However, travelers should only carry small portions as personal supplies of some medications, including common cold, allergy, and cough. Insect repellent and sunscreen are also a good idea, as children sometimes get sick in areas that adults would not. Additionally, when traveling with young children in Morocco, it is a good idea for them to have a piece of paper on their person at all times with their hotel name, room number, and parents’ names on it. This is a good idea for children who get separated from the group even in their home country.

9.1. Staying Safe in Urban Areas

The Middle East and North Africa region suffers from generally higher crime rates than do other regions. Crime rates in many urban areas are high, but this phenomenon is coupled with a need for the government and people in general to maintain political stability. To do so, the Moroccan government endeavors to rid urban areas of any law enforcement problems. This is of particular interest to foreign visitors who can be potential targets. This should not be any cause for concern. Nevertheless, it is a good idea to take commonsense precautions to minimize risk.

A number of general principles can be taken into account to ensure visitor safety is maximized. This includes adopting a low profile by avoiding any outward displays of wealth. Moreover, there is no need to walk about towns or cities carrying large amounts of cash or wearing valuable jewelry. If you are the victim of a crime, it is important to contact the police and then the nearest consulate or embassy. Most tourist information offices will have a list of the main tourism police stations in the more popular towns and cities in the kingdom. Accurate statistics are not available about the number of visitors who are affected by crime, but very few embassies receive news of any major incidents that are a result of anything other than their own unsuspecting behavior. The main points of consideration from travelers should be to take sensible security precautions about personal belongings and to avoid unlit areas at night while walking through towns and cities.

9.2. Health Precautions

Well, make sure you bring sunblock. It’s hot there, and the children will be far more prone to sunburn than in Britain. In other respects, Marrakesh can be more disease-prone than many holiday destinations. Some of the old city’s 400-year-old drains still work, and the heat can encourage bacteria to thrive. Your party’s stomach may regret that. Take a good stock of substitute toilet supplies and bottled water. Momentary health scares aside, though, we’ve personally found Marrakesh to be a much healthier place than other holiday destinations. Perhaps it’s because the home cooking we prefer eating there is gently prepared over charcoal rather than the barely boiled stuff some restaurants dish out. Whatever the reason, we’ve always come home appreciative of how well-rested our stomachs feel. In contrast to Marrakesh, the coastal town must deal with scorching voters every four years. Agadir is a much cleaner, open, spick-and-span place. The longer hours of sunshine and minimal moisture in the air strip out the body-transporting bacteria too. It really is the seaside town as a sanitized metaphor. Food preparation is fashioned on modern European lines rather than traditional North African methods. So, ‘tummy troubles’ will be less frequent too. Again, it’s a modern tourist town, so drinking water and other supplies are probably alright. But as in Marrakesh, it’s best not to be complacent. Bottled water, fruit juice, and crucially, orange juice, are about 10p more expensive in Agadir than they are in the souks. Drink only bottled water and other canned drinks on the street. Preferably, make sure you know the bottle was sealed in front of you. You’ll have disagreements in your group about whether a lawfully sealed mineral water bottle is better than orange juice pressed and served in front of you. Remember, though, diarrhea and vomiting are bad enough at home; no one needs those problems on holiday.