Traveling with Kids in Morocco
Morocco is a family-centric, peaceful country with genuine warmth and love for children of all ages. It’s home to cultures where large families are standard—a family of five to six children, and multi-generational homes are considered the norm. It’s not unusual for people you’ve just met to offer kisses, hugs, and cadeaus (gifts) for your kids. Traveling with kids to Morocco can open doors to unique experiences, connecting you deeper to its people and your own family.
Is Morocco Good for Kids?
The Moroccan culture reveres pregnant women, creating a protected environment for families. Breastfeeding in public is acceptable, but taking a shawl for privacy is advisable. Pharmacies are available in most neighborhoods to meet medical requirements, and while state-run hospitals might be basic, private clinics are affordable and professionally run.
While it is a country modernizing at speed, some areas may lack infrastructure—expect uneven roads, basic public facilities, and inconsistent health and safety protocols. However, public amenities in newer parts of cities and major airports are typically clean, modern, and user-friendly. King Mohammed VI has recently allocated significant budgets to improve public gardens and children’s play areas, so most neighborhoods and autoroute service stations feature green spaces where your little ones can run off energy.
Family-Friendly Dining Options
Traditional Moroccan cuisine is home-cooked, prepared from local seasonal ingredients, and rarely spicy unless you see red harissa or chili peppers on a dish. Moroccans usually share meals from one plate or a tagine. While locals eat with their right hand, cutlery is always available. You will rarely find a kid’s menu, but most restaurants offer staple kids’ foods such as pasta, pizza, and burgers as standard. Restaurants are child-friendly, and it’s common for children of all ages to join for meals, including late-night dinners with their parents.
Best Locations in Morocco for Families
From the treasure-lined souk alleys of ancient medinas in Marrakech, Fes, Essaouira, and Rabat, to the crumbling historic kasbahs of movie set fame in Ouarzazate, there are plenty of opportunities to ignite your child’s imagination. Sand lovers will delight in the Sahara desert dunes and the never-ending beaches of the Atlantic coastline. Adventurous families can enjoy mountain hikes, water sports galore, and wildlife experiences in the country’s national parks. Luxury resort hotels and former palaces provide extensive kids’ club programs, allowing parents a chance for pampering and relaxation.
Activities for Babies and Toddlers
The climate in Morocco makes for plentiful dry, sunny days. Choosing accommodation with shaded gardens and a swimming pool is ideal for toddlers to practice their first strokes. Being in Morocco with a baby is a heart-warming, human connection experience, exposing your babies and young children to copious attention, love, and warmth from the locals.
Engaging Adventures for Kids Aged 4-11 Years
Explore Car-Free Medinas and Cultural Hotspots
Take your children on an exciting treasure hunt in the souk, where they can marvel at the wonders of Morocco’s major cities. Marrakech and Rabat are home to world-class museums, galleries, and theaters celebrating African culture, history, and art. For an open-air classroom, the Roman ruins will bring history to life.
Aqua Play in Water and Theme Parks
With plenty of sunshine, you can spend an exhilarating day in one of the country’s waterparks, like Oasiria, which is a peaceful oasis featuring multiple slides, wave pools, and lush tropical gardens.
Wildlife Adventures on an African Safari
Wildlife conservation is gaining importance in Morocco. The local zoo offers many African species and educational workshops for children. National parks provide pristine nature settings where excitement and educational experiences converge, making for unforgettable family outings.
Discover the Beaches
Morocco boasts a vast coastline, with many family-friendly beaches. Explore safe and gentle lagoons or stretches of sandy beaches ideal for building sandcastles, rock pooling, and enjoying watersports like surfing and pedal boating, providing a fun-filled day for the whole family.
Night Under the Stars in the Sahara Desert
Introduce your children to breathtaking star-filled skies. Enjoy the joy of campfires and rolling down dunes in the Sahara desert or check out a more accessible desert to enjoy similar experiences.
Activities for Teenagers and Tweens
Experience the Football Culture
Watch a live football game or join in with one on the beach. The locals are passionate about their national sport and love to share the experience with newcomers.
Adrenaline-Fueled Adventures
Whether it’s karting fun, sandboarding in the desert, or wind water sports, there is no shortage of thrilling activities for teenagers to enjoy across Morocco.
Cinematic Experiences
Did you know Morocco has its own version of Hollywood? Home to Atlas Film Studios, families can explore the fascinating world of film production and iconic movie sets.
Planning Essential Tips for Family Travel
Choose accommodation that caters to your needs. Ensure cots are available if needed, and check if the location is close to a mosque, as the Call to Prayer can be heard throughout the day.
Remember that traveling in Morocco can be stimulating; setting aside quiet time to recharge will enhance your experience. Most attractions are free for children under three, and discounted rates apply for older children.
Be adaptable with transportation; while taxis may not have car seats, renting a car or arranging a private driver is highly recommended for a stress-free travel experience.
Bring refillable water bottles and prioritize filtered water wherever possible for your family’s health. Overall, Morocco offers an enriching family travel experience filled with adventure, warmth, and lasting memories.
