Adventures in Morocco with Kids

For culture, adventure, and beautiful scenery, all only four hours from the UK, go on a Scott Dunn family holiday to Morocco.

Morocco for Families

For a truly unique family holiday, look no further than Morocco. A short flight takes you to the doorstep of a different world, a maze of bustling souks, ancient Kasbahs and rugged mountainscapes, which are bound to enthral and excite even the youngest of imaginations. From the exotic intrigue of Marrakech to the old pirate port of Essaouira and the shifting sand dunes of the desert, Morocco is a playground for children.

 

Is Morocco a good place for a family holiday?

For a family adventure holiday, Morocco is full of wonder for little ones. It is a land of contrasts, warm hospitality, and memorable experiences that the whole family will enjoy. The kaleidoscopic colours of the Medina, the windswept coastline of the Atlantic and the snow-capped peaks of the Atlas Mountains are all as different and as spectacular as each other.

Flights from the UK to Morocco are under four hours, yet you feel miles away in terms of the culture. There are plenty of family-friendly properties, and most of the big hotels in Marrakech have kids’ clubs.

If you’re travelling around the country, Scott Dunn will organise all the transfers, while our expert guides will ensure you get from A to B smoothly and without concerns.

The best time to visit Morocco is arguably before the fierce heat of summer takes its toll, or after it has subsided. Travelling during half term in February, May and October makes for a brilliant getaway with the whole family in tow.

 

Best Places in Morocco for Family Holiday

You could happily spend a week in one of Marrakech’s family-friendly hotels and not get bored, but if you want to travel around a bit too, you don’t have to go far to find variety with beaches and mountains just outside the city.

 

Marrakech

Souk in Marrakech, Morocco 

Marrakech is a knock-your-socks-off city for both young and old. Fall under the spell of its storybook charm by navigating its labyrinth of lively souks or witnessing Djemaa el-Fna square become abuzz with the performances of magicians, storytellers, and musicians. The Four Seasons Marrakech has established itself as one of the most exclusive resorts for families in the city. Its Kids For All Seasons Program is great for little ones, and the Young Adult Centre is ideal for teens, ensuring all members of the family are entertained. The city’s Mandarin Oriental is another fantastic option for Marrakech family holidays, taking the hassle out of travelling with youngsters. From the moment you check in and roll up your sleeves in the onsite organic vegetable garden, a stay at the Mandarin Oriental is a great way to introduce kids to the real Morocco.

 

Essaouira and the Atlantic Coast

Surfing at La Sultana Oualidia on the Essaouira Coast, Morocco 

If you’re looking for a family beach holiday in Morocco, Essaouira is a good option for coastal views and being by the sea. However, it is not the kind of beach that you’d swim on, thanks to the strong winds that blow through. Its Atlantic waves are good for surfing though and teens will be kept entertained with surf lessons, whilst strolls along the beach are a fantastic way to escape from the colourful chaos of Marrakech.

Essaouira’s quiet streets are peppered with blue and white houses, charming shops and cafes, and rooftops to admire the view from. Younger kids will love watching the fishing boats bob about, while older ones will enjoy walking around the markets, bartering for souvenirs, and soaking up the bohemian vibe. Further north from Essaouira is equally laid-back Oualidia, set on a lovely blue lagoon. Its calm waters are great for beginners and children to learn how to surf. Plus, you can swim here, and go paddle boarding, windsurfing and fishing in the lagoon too.

La Sultana Oualidia is a beautiful boutique hotel with a private beach on the water’s edge, which has family-sized suites and a babysitting service. For special time together while on your family holiday in Morocco, take a boat trip to the other side of the water for a picnic on the beach. Meanwhile, back at the hotel, there’s yoga and a fantastic spa for adults needing to relax.

 

Atlas Mountains

Kasbah Tamadot pool with Atlas Mountains in the distance 

Ensconcing yourself and your family in the Atlas Mountains for a few days showcases yet another side to Morocco. Take a cookery lesson and learn the nuances of authentic Berber cuisine. Families with adventurous teens might like to spend time trekking through the dramatic scenery, including up to North Africa’s highest peak Mount Toubkal. Kasbah Tamadot is a brilliant base camp during your stay, where you can go fossil hunting in the mountains, or search the hotel’s grounds for its resident peahens and tortoises, then hunker down to a movie night under the stars. You could stay a night or two in the mountains or take a day trip from Marrakech.

 

Agafay Desert

Quad biking in the Agafay desert, Morocco 

A fantastic addition to your Marrakech family holiday is a few nights in the Agafay Desert. Just 45 minutes from the city, in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, it’s where you can have a taste of desert life, without having to travel all the way to the Sahara. Sleep under the stars at Inara Tented Camp, a luxurious but simple glamping experience that all the family will love. The hotel even has a gorgeous swimming pool sunk into the desert. Explore the vast, otherworldly landscape on an exhilarating quad biking or buggy adventure or walk among the camels and sand dunes with a Berber guide. Dine under the stars as local musicians and dancers perform, while the sun sets after an invigorating day in the rugged desert.

 

Things to Do in Morocco With Kids

Hot air balloon over the Atlas Mountains, Morocco 

We have a fantastic array of really memorable things to do with kids in Morocco on a family holiday. In Marrakech join a treasure hunt around the souks, indulge in a street food tasting tour, jump in a sidecar to explore the city, and join a pottery or drumming lesson. In the Atlas Mountains, take the kids hiking among the incredible landscape, learn about the art of Moroccan food with a Berber cooking lesson, or take a hot air balloon ride over the mountains.

On the coast, in Essaouira or Oualidia, surf lessons will thrill your teens, while you breathe in the fresh sea air and take peaceful walks along the beach. For a dash of adrenaline, Agafay Desert will deliver with quad biking, buggy rides and 4X4 jeep tours of the sandy landscape. For some personal inspiration, Matt Shock, our Africa travel specialist, had this to say about his time in Marrakech:

“A highlight of my trip to Marrakech was the street food tour. It gives you an insider's view of the old medina that you wouldn’t see otherwise. Try an interesting, broad variety of food, from fresh juices to sweet confectionary. Some of which are cooked by women in their houses, who pop out chairs when you come past. Locals love introducing visitors to their culture and are so warm and friendly.”

Filter:
Area
Type
Grade
1 - 5 of 5 Hotels
CHOICE
Kasbah Tamadot

Kasbah Tamadot

Asni, Atlas Mountains

An exquisite Atlas Mountain retreat near Asni, the luxurious, boutique Kasbah Tamadot combines relaxation with adventure in a stylish, indulgent and authentic setting. The image of the hotel's infinity pool is iconic with views across the valley below.

Couples Culture Off the beaten track
Four Seasons Resort Marrakech

Four Seasons Resort Marrakech

Marrakech, Morocco

Nestled in 40 acres of beautiful Moorish gardens, the Four Seasons Marrakech provides a luxurious retreat for even the most discerning guests. This elegant hotel has been finished in a contemporary style and is just a short walk from the bustling Medina.

Culture Couples
Inara Camp

Inara Camp

Agafay Desert, Moroccan Desert

Located in the desert just outside Marrakech, Inara Camp offers a secluded retreat for a desert camp experience, where you can try a buggy ride and sleep in a berber tent under the starry sky.

Off the beaten track Adventure Couples
Mandarin Oriental Marrakech

Mandarin Oriental Marrakech

Marrakech, Morocco

The Mandarin Oriental Marrakech is a stylish hideaway within easy access of Marrakech's medina. This luxury hotel is a calm retreat within the bustling city, and offers private villa accommodation amongst expansive grounds.

Couples Culture
La Sultana Oualidia

La Sultana Oualidia

Oualidia, Atlantic Coast, Morocco

The boutique La Sultana Hotel in Oualidia boasts a stunning location next to the mesmerising nature reserve lagoon. It offers the perfect solution for those seeking a quiet break on the Moroccan coast or a myriad of water-sports for thrill-seekers.

Beach Culture Spa & health
1 - 5 of 5 Hotels
×
Filter
  • Area
  • Type
  • Grade

Meet Our Morocco Specialists

Get in touch with our travel specialists to start dreaming of your Morocco family holiday. Whether you’re looking for beach time, adventure or to soak up the culture, we will plan an itinerary that will put a smile on the whole family’s face.

Matt Shock

Africa & Safari Specialist

Safari encapsulates everything that I love and yearn for in travel – wildlife, remote landscapes, wonderful people and special memories – and I am so lucky to have been able to form a career around these passions.

Call us on 020 3993 6439 to start planning your holiday

Why Scott Dunn?

Why SD and In the Know Icons_Unique
Unique to You
Unique to you

  • We listen to your travel goals and craft unique trips that are bespoke to you.
  • We’re with you every step of your life’s travel journey, from honeymoons to family trips and beyond.

Why SD and In the Know Icons_Service
Seamless Service
Seamless Service

  • Global offices in the UK, US, and Singapore for 24/7 seamless service.
  • We offer flexibility if your plans change so you can book with confidence and peace of mind.
     

Why SD and In the Know Icons_Collection
Carefully Curated Collection
Curated Collection

  • We’ve curated an elevated collection of accommodation, experiences, and guides.
  • Committed to fostering close global relationships to continue bringing you unique experiences.

Why SD and In the Know Icons_Luxury
Luxury in Every Sense
Luxury in every sense

  • We deliver a sense of luxury that matters most to you.
  • Awarded Condé Nast Traveller’s Top Travel Specialists in the World 11 years in a row.
     
     

You are on our UK website

We noticed that you are in US and recommend that you explore our US website instead.
switch to US website
Or continue to explore our UK website

Plan your trip

Please tell us a few details about your holiday plans and provide your phone number so we can call you back..
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4

When would you like to go?

Please select Enter your departure date*
Please select Year*

Where would you like to go?

Please select Select your interest

How many nights?

How many nights? Drag the slider to select nights
0 21 nights +

Guests*

Number of adults (aged 12+). Minimum 1 adult  
Adults (age 15+)
Children (age 0-15)
Rooms

Select your budget per person

Please select
Budget*

Contact details

Your First name First name*
Your Last name Last name*
Your email address Email address*
Your phone number Phone number*
+44
Tell us about your trip
Let us know if you have fixed dates, who you’re travelling with or if it’s for a special ocassion
Please tick this box to continue  

Unable to submit your request

Unfortunately, we were unable to submit your request. Please try again later or contact us.