How to Plan the Perfect Family Vacation in Morocco 2024

Planning a family vacation in Morocco offers a mix of adventure, cultural experiences, and stunning landscapes. This guide will help you plan a perfect trip by highlighting family-friendly destinations, activities for children of all ages, recommended accommodations, safety tips, and must-experience cultural events.

Top Family-Friendly Destinations in Morocco

1. Marrakech 

• Jemaa el-Fnaa: Explore the bustling main square filled with street performers and local artisans.
• Majorelle Garden: A tranquil garden perfect for family strolls.

2. Essaouira

• Beach Activities: Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and sandcastle building on pristine beaches.
• Medina Exploration: Wander through the UNESCO World Heritage Site medina, sampling local seafood and shopping for handicrafts.

3. Atlas Mountains

• Hiking and Trekking: Family-friendly trails in the Middle Atlas offer breathtaking views and visits to Berber villages.
• Berber Villages: Experience traditional Berber culture through music, dance, and local cuisine.

4. Rabat

• Historical Sites and Gardens: Visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and the Rabat Zoo.
• Museums and Zoos: Explore the National Zoological Garden and its recreated ecosystems.

5. Sahara Desert

• Camel Trekking: Enjoy a family camel trek and an overnight stay in a Berber camp under the stars.
• Sandboarding and Dune Bashing: Thrill-seeking families can enjoy these exciting desert activities.

Activities and Attractions for Children of Different Ages

• Young Children: Beach activities in Essaouira, exploring the Majorelle Garden in Marrakech, and strolling through the medina’s narrow streets.
• Older Children and Teens: Hiking in the Atlas Mountains, sandboarding in the Sahara, and windsurfing or kitesurfing in Essaouira.
• Cultural Experiences: Enjoy traditional music and dance performances in Berber villages, cooking classes in Chefchaouen, and historical tours in Rabat.

Recommended Accommodations for Families

• Luxury Resorts: Family-friendly resorts like Club Med Marrakech La Palmeraie and Aqua Mirage Marrakech Hotel Club.
• Riad Stays: Authentic stays in family-friendly riads in the medinas of Marrakech or Fes, offering personalized service and cultural immersion.

Navigating and Traveling Safely in Morocco

• Transport: Use trains and buses for long-distance travel between cities. In cities, opt for metered taxis or agree on a price beforehand.
• Health and Safety: Drink bottled water, avoid unhygienic street food, and use sunscreen and hats to protect against the sun. Be mindful of petty crime and keep an eye on your belongings.

Cultural Experiences Not to Miss

• Cooking Classes: Learn to prepare traditional Moroccan dishes like tagine and couscous.
• Festivals and Markets: Visit local festivals and explore vibrant souks to buy traditional crafts and spices.
• Historical Sites: Explore ancient ruins, palaces, and mosques to understand Morocco’s rich history and architecture.

Conclusion

By incorporating these activities and tips, you can create a memorable and enriching family vacation in Morocco. Enjoy the diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality that Morocco has to offer!