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. 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 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
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
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
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
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
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.
