How to Plan a Family Trip to Morocco 2026
Planning a family trip to Morocco? You might be wondering: Will the kids enjoy it? Will the journey be safe and comfortable? How can you balance cultural exploration with family fun? This comprehensive guide picks the best kid-friendly experiences, along with safety and health tips, and advice on your itinerary. So, put your mind at ease to start your Morocco trip with us.
Is It Safe to Travel With Kids in Morocco
The answer is YES. Moroccan society is deeply influenced by Muslim culture and has a strong sense of family, which makes it an extremely friendly and welcoming family travel destination. You will feel the natural kindness and tolerance of the locals towards your children. The main tourist areas in Morocco have complete security services, and you just need to take simple preventive measures. It is still recommended that you remain vigilant and keep your valuables safe in crowded places such as markets and squares.
If you wish to have an extra layer of peace of mind during your family trip to Morocco, choosing Odynovo as your travel partner is the wisest decision. We'll solve the uncertainties and trivial matters during your journey. Our excellent services, including experienced guides and comfortable private cars, enable you and your family to enjoy the trip in a relaxed and happy manner.
Best Time for a Family Trip to Morocco
Morocco is a country worth visiting all year round, but for families with flexible schedules, I will make recommendations based on different situations.
Spring and autumn are the best times: The climate in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) is mild, suitable for various outdoor activities such as city sightseeing and desert exploration, which can ensure the comfort of your whole family to the greatest extent.
Winter is a cost-effective choice: Winter (December to February) is the off-season for tourism in Morocco. With the lower cost and fewer tourists, you can deeply explore the Sahara Desert and other southern regions. It should be noted that the temperature difference between day and night in desert areas is relatively large. So, remember to prepare warm clothes for your family. In addition, you can also have a unique Christmas and New Year holiday in Morocco.
Summer needs your extra attention: July and August are very hot, with a high average temperature ranging from 22 to 37 ℃ (72-99 ℉). The midday sun is particularly unfriendly to children and the elderly, so I usually do not recommend it. If you are still considering traveling during this period, be sure to arrange your itinerary in the relatively cool early morning or evening, and ensure adequate hydration and sun protection.
How Many Days for a Family Trip to Morocco
The duration of your family trip to Morocco depends on your interests and plans. If you want to visit the classic imperial cities, a 7-day itinerary in Morocco can cover its main attractions. If you're interested in exploring the Sahara Desert, a Morocco 10-day itinerary would be appropriate.
According to your needs, we usually make adjustments based on the actual situation of each family. For families with children, slowing down can lead to the best experience. Staying more nights at each destination, such as spending 4 days in Marrakech or Casablanca and 6 days in the Sahara Desert, avoids the trouble of frequently packing luggage and changing locations. More importantly, it creates a resting space for young children and elders. Sufficient rest time and flexible itineraries are key to a family trip for a relaxing experience.
Itinerary Ideas for Your Morocco Family Trip
The must-visit destinations in Morocco include: Marrakech, the Sahara Desert, Fez, and Casablanca. If your vacation time is limited (for example, only 5-8 days), there is a Morocco 7-day tour for your reference. You'll enjoy a relatively compact itinerary with the essence of the desert and visit ancient cities: Marrakech (3 nights), the Sahara Desert (2 nights), the Atlas Film City of Ouarzazate (2 nights).
However, the truly perfect journey is based on your child's pace and family interests. You can definitely stay in any city you like for an extra 1-2 days. The following table offers some recommendations.
You can also enjoy your private time while travelling with kids, we can help to arrange a reliable babysitter for you during your Morocco vacation. If you're still worried, feel free to contact us for travel customization experts and reliable services to arrange everything.
| Destination | Duration | Highlight |
|
Marrakech
|
2-3 Days
|
Visit Koutoubia Mosque & Palace of Bahia, Explore Jardin Majorelle Garden, Go shopping in Jemaa el-Fnaa square |
|
Casablanca
|
2-3 Days |
Visit the landmark Hassan II Mosque, Wander the Corniche of Ain Diab
|
|
Sahara Desert
|
2-3 Days
|
Take a photo of Ait Ben Haddou, Sandboarding, Camping under the stars, Watch a desert sunrise and sunset |
|
Fez
|
2 Days | Explore the maze-like ancient medina, Observe the traditional tannery |
|
Chefchaouen
|
2 Days
|
Wander through its blue-alleyways, Shop for local wool crafts |
| Essaouira |
1-2 Days
|
Surfing, Kitesurfing, Savor fresh grilled seafood
|
|
Rabat
|
1 Day
|
Visit the Hassan Tower & Mohammed V Mausoleum, Explore the Royal Palace of Rabat & Kasbah of Oudayas
|
| Atlas Mountains |
2 Days
|
Road Trip Through the Middle Atlas Mountains, Visit Berber villages |
Is a Family Trip to Morocco Expensive
The cost of a family trip to Morocco can be flexibly arranged according to your plan.
Take an example of a 4-star level, an 11-day itinerary, the average cost is approximately between $200 and $220 per adult per day. With luxurious hotels, desert camps with more diverse featured activities, the budget can be increased to over $240 per adult per day. If there is more than one child traveling together, or if there are family room or other accommodation needs, the budget will also be higher. If you travel during the off-season, you can gain better services and experiences with the same budget as peak season.
In Morocco, most hotels and travel services charge children over the age of 12 as adults. For example, when booking a hotel, if a child is over 12 years old, an extra bed fee usually needs to be paid. When participating in desert tours or other activities, they will also be regarded as "adults" taking up a seat. Conversely, children under 12 years old usually enjoy discounted prices or even free services if they don't need a seat. SO, for the same duration, families with teenagers tend to have a higher budget than those with young children.
Regarding air tickets, there are significant price differences between peak and off-peak seasons. During peak seasons (such as spring, autumn, and holidays), the prices of round-trip air tickets to and from outside Morocco are relatively high. For example, the average price of round-trip economy class tickets departing from cities like New York or Los Angeles ranges from $700 to $800. In contrast, during off-peak seasons (winter and summer), the prices of round-trip air tickets to and from outside Morocco drop significantly, generally ranging from $300 to $400. The prices of domestic flights within Morocco (such as a round-trip between Casablanca and Marrakech) are relatively stable, with a one-way ticket usually costing around $150.
In terms of daily expenses, the consumption level in Morocco is relatively moderate:
- Common snacks and drinks (like coffee and mint tea) cost approximately $1-3.
- The average cost of a Tagine at a regular restaurant is $6 to $15, while a main meal at a 4-star or 5-star restaurant costs around $20 to $40 per person.
In addition, it should be noted that the prices at popular tourism areas like Jemaa el-Fnaa Square in Marrakech are slightly higher. Before your consideration of cost, check your child's age information and travel needs, so that we can accurately plan for you.
A Market in Marrakech
Best Kid-Friendly Activities in Morocco
Desert Adventures & Camping in the Sahara Desert
When your child steps into this golden Sahara Desert, the fairytale of "The Little Prince" comes to life. The vast dunes are a natural playground for kids. Sliding on the sand or simply running in the desert can make them joyful. Teenagers can try the thrilling four-wheel drive. At night, you'll sit around the campfire with your family, drinking sweet mint tea, and listening to the Berber people tell ancient legends. Don't forget, keep an eye out for those mysterious little dog footprints on the sand, which might be the shy desert fox. This small discovery will make your kids extremely excited.
Step Into Colorful Cities
The cities of Morocco are like fairyland kingdoms. In the red city of Marrakech, you will experience the hustle and bustle of Jemaa el-Fnaa Square and the tranquility of the Jardin Majorelle Garden. In the white city of Casablanca, you can admire the magnificent Hassan II Mosque and take a family photo of this landmark. In the blue city of Chefchaouen, it is a dreamlike maze suitable for families to stroll leisurely. Different colors can continuously stimulate a kid's senses, and its unique atmosphere can also make your family marvel at it.
Explore the Souks in Medina
Don't worry that exploring the ancient Medina in Morocco might bore the children. In the markets of Fez or Marrakech, try giving your children a list: "Find the stall with the most fragrant spices", "Count how many colors of shoes there are", "Find the old man who makes mint tea". Let them discover the charm of Morocco through play. When tired from playing, enjoy a traditional Tagine together and choose leather goods or lamps as souvenirs for friends and relatives.
Strolling Corniche & Surfing Along the Atlantic Ocean Coast
After experiencing the hustle and bustle of Moroccan cities, a beach vacation can regulate the pace of your family trip. In Essaouira or Agadir, teenagers and parents can try surfing or kite surfing to experience the thrill of riding the waves. The long sandy beaches, the occasional appearance of crabs, and the crashing waves are paradises for young children to play freely. If you just want to enjoy the seaside atmosphere, stroll along the corniche of Ain Diab in Casablanca and taste seafood, enjoying a relaxing family time.
Coastline of Casablanca
Stay in Riads With Family
Give up the ordinary hotels and choose to stay at a riad (a traditional homestay built around a central courtyard). Compared to standard hotels, a riad has a more exotic atmosphere. Its courtyard provides a safe and enclosed space for children to play. Moreover, many of them offer cooking classes, allowing your family to learn together how to make tagines and mint tea. I believe this delicious experience will be a precious interactive memory.
Enjoy Morocco Hammams
If you ask me what special experiences Morocco has to offer, I would definitely say that Hammam (traditional bath) is a must-try. You can find them in most major cities, like Marrakech, Fez, and Casablanca. Different from public baths, you will be in a private and gentle environment, and the staff will perform traditional bathing and massage procedures. It is an interesting and unique experience to relieve your family's travel fatigue.
Note: Although most Hammams do not have strict age restrictions, considering that the environment may be too hot and humid, it is recommended not to bring infants and toddlers into them. Children under the age of 8 must be accompanied by an adult throughout the process. So, confirm the specific regulations with the staff before going there.
FAQs About Planning a Family Trip to Morocco
What to wear & pack?
For cultural respect and sun protection considerations, we suggest:
- It is suitable for children to wear short-sleeved T-shirts and casual long pants in daily life, which ensures their freedom of movement at most occasions.
- For teenage girls, it is recommended to choose knee-length skirts or loose trousers, and prepare a light coat or a large scarf so that they can cover their arms when visiting religious sites.
- When visiting important religious sites such as the Hassan II Mosque, all family members are required to wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees.
- As most of the local swimming pools are at room temperature, it will feel cool to get into the water in spring, autumn, or winter. It's best to prepare long-sleeved sun-protective swimsuits for children, enabling them to play in water for a longer time.
Do you need a visa or immunisations?
Citizens from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the European Union, can stay visa-free for 90 days in Morocco. Please make sure that the passport validity of all family members is at least 6 months beyond the departure date. If your kids (under the age of 18) are accompanied by only one parent, it is strongly recommended to carry with you a notarized travel consent letter issued by the other parent (or all unaccompanied guardians) for verification upon entry.
In terms of health, Morocco does not have mandatory vaccination requirements, but it is recommended to ensure that your child has received routine vaccinations on time before traveling.
Can you communicate in English in Morocco?
Although Arabic and French are the common languages in Morocco, communicating in English is entirely feasible in tourist areas. Families with children need not worry too much about it, and a smile and a simple gesture can also suffice for basic communication.
Before traveling, you can learn a few simple Arabic greetings with your kids, such as "Shukran" (Thank you) and "Salaam Alaikum" (Hello), which is an interesting interaction during the journey.
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