Top family-friendly activities in Morocco

Morocco is a family-oriented and tranquil nation, filled with warmth and affection for children of all ages. It boasts a culture where large families are common, with five to six children being the norm, and multi-generational households are typical. It’s not unusual for new acquaintances to shower your kids with kisses, hugs, and cadeaus (gifts). Visiting Morocco with children allows for unique experiences that deepen your connection with its people and your family.

Is Morocco suitable for children?

Moroccan culture holds a deep respect for pregnant women. Breastfeeding in public is widely accepted, though bringing a shawl for modesty is advisable. Pharmacies are commonly found in most neighborhoods, and while state hospitals may be basic, private clinics are affordable and well-run.

As a rapidly modernizing nation, some areas may lack infrastructure – be prepared for uneven roads, basic public facilities, and varying health and safety standards. However, the newer parts of cities and major airports offer clean, modern amenities. Recently, King Mohammed VI allocated significant budgets to enhance public gardens and children's playgrounds, ensuring that many neighborhoods and highway rest stops feature green spaces for your little ones to expend their energy.

Moroccan traditional cuisine is typically home-cooked, utilizing local seasonal ingredients, and is seldom spicy unless accompanied by red harissa or chili peppers. Meals are usually shared from a single plate or a tagine. While locals eat with their right hand, utensils are always provided. Although children's menus are rare, most restaurants offer kid-friendly staples like pasta, pizza, and burgers. Dining out is family-friendly, and it’s common for children of all ages to enjoy meals, even late-night dinners, with their parents.

Planning a trip to Marrakech with kids? Keep in mind that some riads in the Medina prioritize aesthetics and tranquility over kid-friendly amenities. It's wise to explore accommodations in the Hivernage, Palmeraie, and surrounding areas, where you’ll find expansive gardens and large swimming pools. These locations also offer easier access for parking and taxi drop-offs compared to the narrow streets of the Medina.

What are the best places in Morocco for kids?

From the treasure-filled souk lanes of the ancient medinas in Marrakech, Fes, Essaouira, and Rabat, to the storied, crumbling kasbahs of Ouarzazate, there’s a wealth of experiences to spark your children's imaginations. Sand enthusiasts will revel in the Sahara's majestic dunes and the endless beaches along the Atlantic coast. Thrill-seeking families can enjoy mountain hikes, a variety of water sports, and wildlife encounters in the country's national parks. Luxurious resort hotels and former palaces offer extensive kids’ club programs, allowing parents to indulge in some well-deserved relaxation.

Top activities in Morocco for babies and toddlers

Morocco's climate offers many dry, sunny days. Opting for accommodations with shaded gardens and swimming pools makes it easy for your toddlers to enjoy their first swimming lessons.

Having a baby in Morocco is a heartwarming experience filled with human connections. Your little ones can expect to receive plenty of affection, attention, and a warm welcome wherever you go.

Top activities in Morocco for kids aged 4-11

Discover car-free medinas and vibrant cultural hubs

Take your kids on a treasure hunt through the souk and see their faces light up at the wonders of Morocco's major cities. Marrakech and Rabat boast world-class museums, galleries, and theaters showcasing African culture, history, and art. The Roman ruins at Volubilis provide an engaging open-air classroom that brings history to life.

Water fun at aquatic and theme parks

With abundant sunshine, you can enjoy a full day of fun at one of the country's water parks. Oasiria, located near Marrakech, is a serene oasis featuring multiple slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, the Aquaroc climbing wall, and lush tropical gardens.

Unleash your adventurous spirit on an African safari

Wildlife conservation is gaining importance in Morocco. Rabat Zoo showcases various African species and offers educational workshops for children aged 5-12. Nearby, Ifrane National Park is a paradise for nature lovers, featuring alpine forests, fresh mountain air, and Barbary apes. A trip to Souss Massa National Park near Agadir provides a safari experience as you seek out oryx and other antelope in their natural surroundings.

Discover Rabat, a vibrant city with a pristine beach

Rabat is known as the country's 'clean and green' capital, boasting a child-friendly, well-maintained sandy beach in the city center. It's an ideal spot for swimming and surfing, with surf schools offering lessons for kids. Less frequented by tourists, notable sights like Chellah, Kasbah des Oudaias, and Medina are pleasantly quiet. The city features a modern tram system, tree-lined streets, green parks, shopping malls, and delicious cuisine. With ferry rides on the River Bougreg, Rabat Zoo, pottery workshops, and playgrounds, there's plenty for both adults and children to enjoy.

Camp under the stars in the Sahara desert

Introduce your little ones to pristine, starry skies, remote landscapes, and a lifestyle where water is treasured. Enjoy the warmth of campfires, the comfort of bedouin tents, and an endless sea of dunes perfect for running and rolling. If you're traveling by land, be prepared for a long drive; consider internal flights or take your time to savor the journey. Remember to pack warm clothes for the night, plastic bags to shield your devices from sand, and books and card games for cozy evenings in camp.

If the Sahara feels too distant, explore the Agafay desert near Marrakech or the Timalin dunes known as 'Le Petit Desert' near Tamri.

Enjoy a day at the beach

Morocco boasts a stunning coastline. Some of the country's finest beaches include Oualidia, featuring a safe, gently sloping lagoon, and Taghazout Bay, known for its 5km stretch of sandy shores and luxurious beach resorts. With opportunities for building sandcastles, exploring rock pools, surfing, enjoying pedalos with slides, and taking camel or pony rides, there's endless fun for the entire family.

Top activities in Morocco for teenagers and tweens

Immerse yourself in the nation's football passion

Catch a live match in one of the stadiums or join a game on the beach. The locals will be excited to share their love for the sport with you. Check the FRMF (Royal Moroccan Football Federation) website for upcoming international matches, with tickets starting at $5 USD. A quick search in the souk will help you find a Hakimi jersey to wear at the game!

Fuel that adrenaline rush

Whether it's karting excitement in Marrakech, sandboarding in the desert, surfing, or exhilarating wind sports available in Essaouira and Dakhla, there are endless options to satisfy your teenagers' craving for adventure and high-speed thrills.

Explore the film industry

Did you know Morocco has its own version of Hollywood? Ouarzazate hosts the Atlas Film Studios, where you can stroll through and discover the making of famous films like Gladiator and Jewel of the Nile.

Take a digital detox

The Atlas Mountains provide opportunities for day hikes or longer treks through charming rural villages in this hiker's haven. Spending a day or two here offers a window into Amazigh culture and hospitality, reminding you of the simplicity and grounding nature of life without digital distractions.

Helpful planning tips

Select accommodations that meet your needs. If necessary, verify whether a cot will be available. Remember that not all places offer air conditioning. If your lodging is near a mosque, be prepared for the Call to Prayer throughout the day, including an early morning wake-up call.

Traveling in Morocco can be quite stimulating – make sure to incorporate some quiet time to unwind and recharge.

Street dogs and cats are ubiquitous in Morocco. Most of these animals are part of the community and are usually tagged. Encourage your children to avoid startling them, pulling their tails, or running, as the dogs might see it as a game and chase them back.

Most attractions offer free entry for children under 3 years old. Some sites have complimentary tickets for kids under 12, and a 50% discount for those aged 12 to 16.

Taxis typically do not come with car seats, and some may lack seatbelts or air conditioning. To ensure these amenities during your trip, consider renting a car or hiring a private driver-guide, and look into domestic flights and trains for longer distances.

The newer sections of cities are stroller-friendly, while the medina and bustling souks can be challenging. Elevators are uncommon, so a lightweight umbrella stroller might be more practical than a heavier buggy for navigating stairs.

Hire a tour guide who speaks your language and can engage your children, bringing the country’s rich culture and history to life.

Standard travel vaccinations are advised but not required.

Morocco boasts a well-developed public transport system, including the CTM and Supratours coach networks, though children are charged the same fares as adults. The high-speed Al Boraq train offers significant discounts for young travelers. The national rail service, ONCF, also provides budget-friendly train options, including bunkbed cabins for the overnight trip from Marrakech to Tangiers.

Carry refillable water bottles. Some locations have filtration systems for tap water—only consume tap water if it's been filtered.