Travelling Morocco With Kids
Camels, kasbahs and couscous — a practical guide to travelling Morocco with children: pacing, food, health and the best activities.
Camel rides, castles that look straight out of a storybook, monkeys in cedar forests and nights under a sky full of stars — Morocco is one of the most rewarding family destinations anywhere. It is also a deeply child-friendly culture, where children are welcomed warmly everywhere. With a little planning (and the right pace), it’s a trip your kids will talk about for years.
Why kids love Morocco
- Camels & the desert camp — riding into the dunes and sleeping in a tent is pure adventure.
- Kasbahs & medinas that feel like living film sets (Ait Ben Haddou is a favourite).
- Animals — Barbary macaques in the cedar forest, goats in argan trees, ponies in the valleys.
- Beaches — Essaouira’s breezy sands and easy seafood lunches.
- Hands-on fun — bread-making with a Berber family, a cooking class, a pottery stall.
Getting the pace right
The single biggest tip: don’t over-schedule. Morocco’s distances are long, so break up drives, build in pool and downtime, and aim for two or three unhurried bases rather than a new hotel every night. A private vehicle is ideal with children — you stop when you need to, carry snacks and car seats, and set your own rhythm.
Ages & the desert: Kids of almost any age enjoy the desert, but the long drive to Merzouga suits ages ~5 and up. Shorter camel rides and a comfortable camp keep little ones happy; teens tend to love the whole thing.
Food for fussy eaters
Moroccan food is generally mild and kid-friendly — bread, plain couscous, chicken tagine, brochettes (skewers), omelettes, fresh fruit and crepes are easy wins. Bottled water only, and pack familiar snacks for long drives. Highchairs are less common, so a portable seat can help with toddlers.
Health & comfort
- Sun & heat: hats, high-SPF sunscreen and plenty of water; plan big sights for morning or late afternoon.
- Tummies: stick to freshly cooked food and bottled water; bring your usual remedies.
- Layers: desert and mountain nights are cold even in summer.
A family-friendly route
A gentle first trip might be: Marrakech (gardens, a light medina wander, pool time) → a day in the Atlas or Ourika Valley → Ait Ben Haddou and the gorges → a night in the Merzouga desert → back via the mountains, or on to Essaouira for the beach. We tailor every stop to your children’s ages.
Travelling as a family? Tell us your kids’ ages and we’ll design a relaxed, safe and genuinely fun itinerary — see our private tours or get in touch.
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Frequently asked questions
What age is right for a desert trip with children?
Kids of almost any age enjoy the desert, but the long drive to Merzouga suits children from about five years old. Shorter camel rides and a comfortable camp keep younger ones happy.
Is Moroccan food suitable for children?
Yes, it is generally mild. Bread, plain couscous, chicken tagine, skewers, omelettes, fruit and crepes are easy wins. Stick to bottled water and bring familiar snacks for long drives.
How should we pace a family trip?
Plan two or three unhurried bases instead of a new hotel every night, break up long drives, and leave time for the pool. A private vehicle lets you stop whenever you need to.
