Is your family thinking of traveling to Morocco? Are you wondering whether or not traveling with kids is a good idea? Travelers often have these questions whether or not Morocco is a good family destination, but is it? Yes! Morocco is an excellent destination for families. Whether you’re looking for adventurous activities or a more leisurely slow-paced vacation, we have the guide for you and tips for having the best family vacation in Morocco.
Is Morocco Safe?
Yes! Morocco is definitely safe, like any country there may be neighborhoods deemed less friendly. Morocco is absolutely safe for anybody, especially for families with children. It’s extremely unlikely to be assaulted or hurt as a tourist in the country. You may find in more touristy areas such as Marrakech, that store owners will harass tourists to visit their shop but you’ll never be in any danger.
With smaller children, it is best to be careful when talking in major cities, many motorcyclists will tend to ignore traffic rules. So be cautious when walking close to roads with children. However, if you’re still concerned about general safety there is always the option of booking a tour with us to ease your anxiety.
Is it Easy to Travel with Kids?
Over the last decade, Morocco has become a major popular destination for travelers all around the globe. As a result, Morocco has developed an infrastructure to help tourists such as restaurants everywhere, plenty of accommodation options, services easily accessible to tourists, and excellent highways. It’s very easy to travel within Morocco with public transport such as trains or buses, however, there are operators as well that give coach services. It’s also easy and affordable to rent a car and drive around Morocco as well. So to answer the question, yes, it is easy to travel with kids in Morocco.
What Age is Optimal for Visiting Morocco?
Morocco is a good fit for all different kinds of families with children of all ages. There isn’t necessarily an optimal age, it depends on what the family is interested in experiencing. There’s plenty to see, do and experience for small children all the way up to teenagers who’re looking for some adventure.
What to Pack
Like any international trip, traveling with children requires a bit of additional preparation. You’ll need to do research on what time of year you’ll be visiting Morocco as it isn’t hot and sunny all year round. Check out our Packing for a Vacation to Morocco blog for details on how to prepare for travel with a family, friends or solo.
Possible Health and Safety Concerns
Make sure you and your family are up to date with routine vaccinations and research possible vaccine requirements well before departures. While these are not required, if you want to stay extra safe you can get your family vaccinated for Typhoid and Hepatitis A. You don’t need to worry about mosquito bites in Morocco, the country is malaria-free. But always take precautions with what you and your family wear and use insect repellent to ward off any annoying bugs. Talk to your children about avoiding cats and dogs in Morocco as many of these are strays that are at risk of having rabies and other diseases. The risk isn’t high with camels or donkeys, they’re generally well taken care of and safe to be around.
Morocco is known for its heat and intense sunny days, so it’s important to bring strong sunscreen and have your family wear it, even on a cloudy day. Heat exhaustion and dehydration are also risks due to the heat of visiting in the summer. The temperatures can be around 95 degrees F on average in the summertime in the interior of Morocco. But just like on the hot summer days in the US, sunburns and dehydration can be avoided as long as you stay prepared and cautious.
Take particular care of your child's diet when traveling. Pack rehydration powder on the chance that your child is experiencing vomiting or diarrhea. It’s advised to not eat uncooked fruits and vegetables that you yourself haven’t washed or cannot peel, this is to avoid any upset stomachs. Tap water in Morocco is safe to drink, but if you want to be extra careful with your family you can always pack a water bottle with an attached filter or just buy bottled water from shops.
Transportation in Morocco
Morocco does have a great infrastructure for public transport. In Northern Morocco you can easily get around by train, this could be a very easy and enjoyable option. There are discount cards for travellers with children going by train. Trains are reasonably priced, comfortable, and they link to most of these major cities in Morocco. Buses are also an option, and depending on the age of your child they will be required to sit on your lap. Many roads have potholes, so this is something to keep in mind if you’re going by bus or even taxi. Renting a car is an incredible way to see Morocco and it’s absolutely worth the extra cost. If you choose this option, then it’s best to bring a car seat for your child as these are not particularly common in Morocco. Going by coach/ hiring a car company is also an option for seeing Morocco, but it’s also advisable to bring a car seat for your children.
Accommodation in Morocco
Accommodations in Morocco are very affordable and many of them are family-friendly too. Keep in mind that not all riads and hotels in Morocco are kid-friendly so it’s very important to do research before booking. While riads aren’t generally for families, there are some that do offer family suites for an additional price.
What to Eat in Morocco
If you have a picky eater in your family, you’ll be glad to know that many restaurants will offer western food such as pizza and fries. While it’s encouraged to try to get your child to try Moroccan food so they can have a tasty experience, we understand that it can be difficult. High chairs may not always be available in restaurants, so that’s something to keep in mind if you chose to go out to eat. The staple food in Morocco is tajine and these contain familiar elements such as potatoes, meat, and carrots. Markets also sell fruits and vegetables but are sure that you wash and/or peel them yourself to avoid getting sick. If you or your children have special foods, it’s better to bring them rather than search for them in Moroccan grocery stores. Finding snacks that your child may like could be a challenge, so it’s best to just pack some from home.
Make sure to check out our blog Marrakech for the Foodies, which covers amazing food options in Marrakech and beyond!
Interested in what the spices are used in Moroccan cuisine? Check out our Essential Spices to Purchase in Morocco so you know what those mystery flavors that are making your tastebuds dance!
Best Places to Visit with Kids
Marrakech
Marrakech is one of the most popular destinations in Morocco, and it’s a great destination for family travel. There is plenty of activities to partake in around in this iconic city from street musicians, to craft classes and shopping within the colorful souks. There are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and extraordinary things to do to give your family an unforgettable experience.
Sahara Desert
A very popular experience to have in Morocco is to take a camel ride through the Sahara Desert. Your family will have a fun-filled camping experience with the nomadic Berbers. Your family will learn about the traditions and culture that have lived through the desert landscapes. Having the opportunity to gain a new perspective will offer your family a one-of-a-kind educational experience from the nomadic culture all the way up to learning the unique ecosystem that the Sahara Desert has. You can also schedule ATV and sandboarding excursions once you are out there, for extra adventure!
Ourika Valley
An easy day trip from Marrakech would be visiting the Ourika Valley. Ourika Valley is in a lush location near the High Atlas Peaks. Families will have the opportunity to relax outdoors while enjoying the beautiful scenery. There are plenty of hiking trails, rivers, and even a waterfall in this area. In some of the towns in villages French and Arabic may be less commonly spoken, while older inhabitants of the valley may only be able to speak Tashelheit. If you’re looking for a rural escape, the Ourika Valley is an excellent option.
Essaouira
This bustling port city has a lot of charm and ancient history. You’ll be met with fortified walls and blue boats all along the harbor. Essaouira is a favorite stop for Moroccan families and tourist families alike. You can enjoy visiting the beach, walk along fortified walls shopping for keepsakes or take a stroll through the medina. There are plenty of activities for children such as camel rides on the beach, visiting the fish markets and stopping at the lively cafes for an afternoon snack.
Agadir
Agadir is an excellent family destination if you’re looking for an area that’s a little more relaxed. Agadir is a new city that’s a mix between traditional Moroccan influences and western influences. There is plenty for your family to do such as visit the beach, go for camel rides by the water, or even visit the popular zoo Croc World which is home to over 300 crocodiles. There is also a skylift that takes you to the highest vantage point in Agadir for some lovely photo opportunities and sunset experience. You are aslo just a short drive away from Taghazout, a renowned surfing spot, for your families beachgoing activities and needs.
Morocco is an excellent family destination, with so much to see and experience. If you’re interested in traveling to Morocco and want to have an authentic experience for you and your family, feel free to contact us to see what we can do for you. Make sure to check out our Instagram or Facebook pages and other blog posts for more in-depth ideas on your ideal family destination.
Photos: Upsplash
Written by K. Monet