Visiting Marrakech with Kids: A Local Family's Guide

Moroccans love children

The first thing to know: children are welcome almost everywhere in Morocco. Waiters will make a fuss of them, strangers will smile at them, and nobody minds a bit of noise at dinner. It makes travelling here with kids much easier than many parents expect.

Where to stay with children

A riad in the medina is magical, but check for open stairs, roof terraces and small plunge pools if your children are young. Many families split their stay: a few nights in a riad for the atmosphere, then a hotel with a garden and a big pool in the Palmeraie or the Hivernage district for downtime.

Pace yourselves

• See the medina early, before 11:00, when it is cooler and calmer.
• Plan a long break after lunch: pool, nap, games.
• Go back out at dusk, when Jemaa el-Fna fills with musicians and food stalls.
• Keep transfers short: one bigger trip every two or three days is plenty.

Activities children love

A camel ride in the Palmeraie is short, calm and a guaranteed hit. Older children can ride quad bikes in Agafay as passengers with a parent. A cooking class keeps everyone busy, and kids are proud to eat what they made. Early risers might love the hot air balloon, though check age limits with us first.

Easy day trips

The Ourika Valley is about an hour away, with a river to splash in and a short walk to the waterfalls. The Agafay desert is 45 minutes away. With older children, Ouzoud waterfalls make a great adventure day. If you want the Sahara, the 4-day desert tour is much kinder to young travellers than the three-day version.

Food and health

Moroccan food is generally mild; spices give flavour rather than heat. Children usually love msemen, grilled chicken, couscous and fresh orange juice. Drink bottled water, wash hands before eating, and carry sunscreen and hats: the sun is strong all year.

Getting around

Petit taxis rarely have child seats. A private driver makes life much simpler: tell us your children's ages when you book, and we will plan the vehicle, stops and pace around your family. Start with a calm airport transfer in Marrakech and a porter for the bags.