Thinking of doing a trip to Morocco with kids? Welcome! Morocco is a fantastic destination for family travel.
Understandably, planning a family trip anywhere in the world can feel overwhelming to start with. But here is everything you wanted to ask about travel in Morocco with kids, including safety, how to get around, itinerary options, places to visit and things to do.
- Choosing Morocco
- Is it safe for family travel?
- What to expect
- Best time to visit?
- Things to do in Morocco with kids
- Destinations
Marrakech
Essaouira
Fes
Chefchaouen
Casablanca
Rabat - Getting there
- Transport
- Food
- Language
- Money and ATMs
- SIM cards and WIFI
- Accommodation
Why do we recommend Morocco as a destination for travel with kids?
Morocco is a great destination for family travel. One of the best things about travel as a family in Morocco is the chance to learn about a totally unique and different culture. All while only a few hours from home!
It’s hard to believe that a country only 2 – 3 hours away from Europe can feel such a world away.
As a general cultural priority, Moroccans adore kids. Family is highly prioritised in Islamic and Moroccan culture.
Albeit there are a lot of historic and cultural sites that make up some of the highlights of travel to Morocco. But many of the best things to do – like camel riding in the Sahara Desert for example – are family-friendly too.
It is an economical destination for travel as a family. The prices of food, accommodation and activities are notably less than European equivalents.
The country is huge and very diverse in terms of geography, culture and environment. So it suits families. There is something for everyone!
Ready to hear about travel in Morocco with kids?
Here are our top parent-friendly tips plus all the basics for what you need to know before setting off for family travel in Morocco.
Is it safe to travel to Morocco with kids?
Yes. Morocco is considered a safe destination for families with kids, especially in popular tourist areas. Normal travel precautions can be taken.
Moroccan culture is very family-oriented and Moroccans love children. Travelling in Morocco with kids often helps to connect more easily with locals. In general, kids are a great ice-breaker in travel!
Of course in the larger cities of Morocco – like in any major city of the world – there is the typical risk of petty crime (watch out for pick pockets). But for all of the times we’ve visited Morocco with kids and in more than eight months of travel in all directions of the country, we have always felt safe.
You will be warmly welcomed as a family.
- Read our detailed travel guide to Morocco.
Visiting Morocco with kids. What is it really like traveling as a family in Morocco?
Morocco is a fantastic destination to travel in as a family. Moroccans are extremely hospitable people and family is prioritised culturally.
It is an incredible experience of learning about a culture that is so vastly different from Europe, though only a short flight away. But yet Morocco has a modern tourist infrastructure and is a country that has been welcoming visitors for literally centuries.
We have always felt safe, welcomed – and grateful for the adventure of travel in Morocco with kids. I believe it’s a fantastic country to travel with children.
But what does it honestly feel like to travel in Morocco with kids?
I’m writing now after wrapping up more than eight months of travel in Morocco with kids.
We have been to over 20 cities and towns in Morocco as a family.
We’ve travelled in all directions of the country from the Moroccan Sahara to Western Sahara. We’ve hugged the Mediterranean coast and travelled literally right up and down the and Atlantic.
We originally arrived by ferry into Tangier and then drove (literally) the entire length of the country all the way south to cross the border into Mauritania. We also crossed the border back and forth to the Spanish enclave of Ceuta in the north.
The kids have run up and down the sand dunes in Merzouga. They’ve ridden donkeys and mules in Zagora.
They have played football and tag in the historic city squares of imperial Morocco. And they learnt to surf on the famous Imsouane waves and the beaches of Taghazout, Sidi Ifni and Sidi Kaouki.
We’ve had countless invitations and joined in Friday couscous in villages all over Morocco. We have spent two subsequent Ramadan years in Morocco with the kids and we all missed it when the month was finished.
So while they tell the story of how cold it was one year in the Atlas Mountains that it snowed. Or remind us that they even tried snails on the beach of El Jadida.
Morocco is firmly cemented as one of our favourite places in the world – for the whole family.
We can honestly say that the family experience of North Africa – and travel in Morocco with kids – rocks!
When is the best time to visit Morocco for family travel?
The best time to visit Morocco in terms of the weather is during the spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October) months. This is when the climate is pleasant and summery throughout the country without being too hot for day-time exploration.
However, in our experience we would also recommend the wintertime (December, January and February) as a perfect escape from the Northern-hemisphere. This means making the most of the sunshine and pleasant day-time temperature.
The winter is also a good time to explore the south and the Sahara fringes and further inland without overwhelming heat. Albeit do remember that even in the desert it can get bitterly cold during the night.
Our kids loved surfing even during the winter months in Morocco.
- March – May and September – October: This is high season for tourism and the best time for perfect weather.
- July – August: July is the hottest month of the year with an average high daily temp of 37°C and an average low of 22°C.
- December – February: The winter months are popular with European overland travellers in motorhomes.
Ultimately Morocco is a great year-round destination. If you are flexible with dates, try for the shoulder seasons and quieter months of April to May and September and October for travel in Morocco with kids.
- Read about travel to Morocco during Ramadan.
Top things to do in Morocco with kids
Morocco is an amazing destination for family travel. In just a short flight from Europe you can feel like a world away!
The country is geographically diverse with mountains, deserts, beaches and the inland gorges and waterfalls. There are plenty of activities to do outside and in nature.
Plus a lot of the cultural and city attractions are interesting and can be fun to do as a family too.
Here are some specific ideas for things to do in Morocco with kids:
- Sand-boarding: Try boarding on the famous Saharan sand dunes.
- Fossil hunting: The area around the Sahara Desert is fantastic for fossil hunting.
- Amazigh (Berber) Village: Learn about the Berber way of life. Kids will enjoy exploring the village and interacting with local children.
- Surfing: Imsouane and Essaouira are famous Moroccan surf destinations that are ideal for beginners.
- Ride a Mule (or Donkey): This is a unique experience for kids (who are the perfect size for these small rides!).
- Hiking: There are lots of short, kid-friendly day walks in the Atlas Mountains to beautiful waterfalls and picturesque villages.
- Corniche: The large cities on the Atlantic Coast have impressive long corniche promenades that usually come alive in the evening with kids games and rides.
- Camel Riding: This is the oldest mode of transport in Morocco and an amazing adventure to share in the Saharan sunset as a family.
From camel rides and sandboarding in the Sahara Desert to surfing on the Atlantic coast, there are plenty of family-friendly things to do in in Morocco with kids!
Visiting the cities of Morocco
So far we have spent more than eight months travelling in Morocco with kids – and we’ve seen a LOT. We love Morocco for family travel!
It is an incredibly diverse country in terms of environment and culture. Geographically the country is large and stretches from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic Coast and inland to the Sahara Desert. So it makes sense that the culture is diverse and different from top to bottom and inland as well.
But to summarise travel to Morocco with kids in one Travel Guide we have chosen the likely main stops on your Morocco itinerary. Then we’ve listed three best things to do with kids in each Moroccan destination.
Marrakech
Marrakech is Morocco’s most well-known city. It is a sensory experience of vibrant colours, flavours, smells, sounds and unique sights.
The medina is world-famous for the maze of markets and shopping which might not sound outwardly suited for kids. But there are plenty more things to do in Marrakech.
- Read our detailed guide and things to do in Marrakech.
Things to do in Marrakech with kids
Marrakech does have a lot of history and sightseeing but that doesn’t mean it’s boring for kids. There are plenty of other things to do in Marrakech for kids of all ages.
- Jmaa el-Fnaa: The main square of Marrakech is alive with all sorts to entertain the kids. From wandering candy floss vendors to monkeys and musicians there is a lot to see!
- Laser Games Marrakech: Our kids had loads of fun at the Laser Games in Marrakech with another travelling family.
- Oasiria Water Park: Ideal for a family day out to cool off in the heat with easy catering and a few ‘quiet’ swimming pools to relax.
- Menara Gardens: A peaceful spot with a large reflecting pool where you can picnic.
- Kidzo: This is an arcade type amusement playground on the top floors of Menara Mall most suited for young kids. There are games, rides, ice skating, bumper cars, and an indoor playground with slides, swings and a ball pit.
- Palooza Park: Amusement park recommended for kids over the age of five. Some of the rides have height restrictions.
- Cinema Megarama: Shows movies in English once a day.
You will do a lot of walking in Marrakech. So if you’re traveling with younger kids I recommend bringing an umbrella stroller (small) or baby-carrier.
Where to eat in Marrakech, Morocco with kids
Marrakech is famous for its rooftop restaurants and dining overlooking the busy Jmaa el-Fnaa square and surrounding Medina. But honestly one of the best things to do in Marrakech with kids is to try the street food!
A walk through the medina will eventually land you at one of the many food streets. These are laneways lined with stands and small kiosks set up with pastries, cooked street food and freshly squeezed juices.
Or head in the late afternoon before sunset to the ever-busy Jmaa el-Fnaa Square.
- Café de Espices: Located in the spice market at Rahba Kedima Square this place does delicious fresh orange juice and the best hummus in Marrakech!
- DarDar Rooftop: Epic views from the rooftop and great kid-friendly menu choices.
- L’Mida: Another rooftop restaurant with splendid views over the Medina and towards the Atlas Mountains. We shared a vegetable tajine and treated the kids to the mini burgers on the Kids Menu.
Our kids especially loved the endless fresh juice stalls in Marrakech. Though if I was going to suggest the best place to eat in the evening with kids, it would be the pop-up restaurants at Jmaa El-Fnaa. It is a unique – and busy – experience!
Essaouira
Essaouira is a port city on the Atlantic coast.
The trade winds make Essaouira a popular destination for surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing. Though it isn’t as overcrowded as Marrakech or Fes. It is one of the most underrated destinations for travel to Morocco.
- Read about things to do in Essaouira.
Things to do in Essaouira, Morocco with kids
Essaouira is a good choice as a coastal destination in Morocco with kids. It is just 3 hours by road from Marrakech.
- Essaouira Medina: The labyrinth of alleyways in the old city are an assault on the senses (in a good way) with colourful souvenirs, handicrafts, Moroccan rugs and shoes.
- Surfing: There are plenty of surf shops, windsurfing and surfing schools that are great for beginners.
- Essaouira Port: Essaouira was the main fishing port for Morocco in the 1900’s and today fishing boats line the harbour where each day they sell their catch.
Plus there are huge, historic canons on the port ramparts that are worth seeing with kids!
Chefchaouen
Chefchaouen is a city in the Rif Mountains to the northwest of Morocco. It is best known for the striking, blue-washed buildings of the old town.
There are many different theories to why Chefchaouen is so blue!
- Read our self-guided walking tour itinerary for 1-day in Chefchaouen.
Things to do in Chefchaouen with kids
Chefchaouen is most famous for being blue!
It isn’t a huge city by any means. Most of the sites in the city are within walking distance and can be explored in one day. So it makes an ideal family-travel destination in Morocco with kids.
- Take in all the BLUE: There are endless enchanting squares, doorways and dead-end alleys that are all BLUE.
- Chefchaouen Cascades: These are at the end of the walled city and make an interesting destination to head for with kids. Plus there are plenty of fresh orange juice stands by the waterfalls!
- See the view from the Spanish Mosque: This mosque sits on the hillside and it is a pleasant kid-friendly 45-minute walk to get there.
Our kids also loved the crepes in Place El Haouta (El Haouta Square).
Fes
Fes is a UNESCO world heritage site and home to the oldest and largest medina in North Africa. It is also one fo the largest pedestrian zones in the world – so it makes sense as a great kid-friendly place to explore on foot!
The city was once the capital of Morocco and is now regarded as the cultural epicentre of the country.
- Read more about things to do in Fes.
Things to do in Fes, Morocco with kids
Albeit Fes is the cultural capital of the country so a lot of the things to do are historic sides that aren’t typically kid-oriented. But it is one of the most famous cities in Morocco and well worth a visit – with the kids.
- Jnan Sbil Gardens (Bou Jeloud): This peaceful slice of nature is the only public garden in Fes medina.
- Fes Medina: A UNESCO site and one of the most fascinating medinas in Morocco to just wander and explore.
- Fes Tanneries: Take in the world-famous smells and discover hundreds of earthen pits full of coloured dye used to colour animal skins. The tanneries are a unique part of Fes culture and a must-see in travel to Morocco.
Casablanca
Casablanca is the largest city in the country. It is a port city and commercial hub on the Atlantic coast of Morocco.
- Read more about visiting Casablanca.
Things to do in Casablanca, Morocco with kids
Casablanca is a large, modern Moroccan city.
It doesn’t have the same old-city vibes as Marrakech or Essaouira. But it does have modern amenities and a great waterfront space along the corniche.
- Hassan II Mosque: This is the only mosque in Morocco open to non-Muslims. It is a short tour inside that is suitable for kids.
- Corniche: The waterfront promenade in Morocco is a great space for kids to run around.
- Morocco Mall: Located at the end of La Corniche area is Morocco Mall – the biggest shopping mall on the African continent! It has an impressive, multi-storey aquarium tank.
- ANZA Park: This huge outdoor park has a large playground, walking trails and a skate and scooter park.
Although Marrakech is often the first city visitors arrive to in Morocco. Casablanca is a good hub for flights from Europe, North America and Middle East.
Food in Morocco and travel with kids
There are many influences on Moroccan cuisine. Tastes and traditions of the Amazigh (Berber), Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Andalusian, Western European and sub-Saharan cultures are all present.
It is an exciting – and mouth-watering – blend of rich flavours, aromatic spices and dining experiences.
But despite the colourful spices and exotically named dishes, Moroccan food isn’t typically spicy. There are lots of European influences with different types of bread and many dishes are served with fries!
The Middle Eastern influence is kid-friendly too with lots of barbecue type meats and skewers.
There are lots of fresh juice stalls and snack-style street foods that are perfect for kids.
Food is involved in every part of Moroccan life, from hospitality to celebrations. If you get the chance to share in a home-cooked meal or Friday couscous – grab the opportunity!
- Read other essential Moroccan foods to try in Morocco on your trip.
Choosing food in Morocco with kids
The good news food-wise for travel in Morocco with kids is that due to the huge range of traditional food and varying influences in cuisine, there really is something for everyone. Even for those picky eaters!
Some traditional dishes to try in Morocco with kids:
- Tagine: Slow-cooked meat and vegetables served in a traditional tagine cooking pot (often served with fries on top!).
- Kefta Tagine: Meatballs served in a tagine with a tomato-based sauce and poached eggs.
- Couscous: Our kids loved chicken couscous on a Friday!
- M’smen: Flatbread style of thick pancake served with Amlou or honey.
- Habricha sandwich: Minced-meat sandwich served in a bread bun.
- Sfenj: Moroccan donuts.
- Khringos: Like a smaller donut-shaped Churros!
Our kids loved the meat skewers at restaurants all over Morocco.
We all got a little bit addicted to fried sardines (despite the kid’s initial reaction!). Plus, we all loved the fresh juices and warm, Sfenj doughnuts.
There are so many types of delicious traditional foods and street food snacks and pastries in Morocco that will suit kids.
- Read more about Moroccan foods to try – and where to find them.
Drinking water
Unfortunately, in most places in Morocco, the tap water is not suitable for drinking. If you have a filtered drink bottle this is your best bet.
Some hotels and accommodation may offer filtered drinking water.
Otherwise, bottled water is available at all the small convenience stores and supermarkets.
Are there supermarkets you recommend in Morocco?
In Morocco, popular supermarket chains include Marjane, Carrefour, Aswak Assalam, and Label’Vie.
These are large supermarkets and hypermarkets in the main cities that stock pretty much everything you can think of.
Is it easy to communicate in English for travel in Morocco?
The official language of Morocco is ‘Darija’ which is a form of Moroccan Arabic.
You’ll quickly discover that the language spoken amongst Moroccans is an amazing blend of classic Arabic, Berber (Amazigh), French and sometimes a little English (or even Spanish).
For travel in Morocco with kids, the most respectful and appreciated phrase to teach them is the shortened form of the traditional Islamic greeting, ‘As-salamu Alaykum’.
The Islamic phrase ‘As-salamu alaykum’ is a respectful formal greeting for Muslims worldwide.
But instead of the formal version, in Morocco the word ‘Salam’ is used as a common greeting similar to ‘hello’ or ‘hi’.
- Greeting: Salam
‘Salam’ is an Arabic word that literally means ‘peace’. Though it is polite to use as an informal greeting to say hi or hello.
Moroccans love interacting with kids and a greeting of ‘Salam’ will always be received with a smile!
What to wear in Morocco. Can kids wear anything?
There aren’t any standout needs for what to wear in Morocco for kids. Kids will be fine in shorts and t-shirts.
- For girls, there are no restrictions, though consider something slight more modest from around the age of puberty.
- For boys, there is no restriction on wearing shorts.
Local kids wear a mixture of traditional and Western clothing in Morocco.
- Read our guide on what to wear in Morocco.
Getting to Morocco
Morocco is geographically located in North Africa. It is possible to travel to Morocco by air, land and sea.
Travel to Morocco by air
This is likely the most economical way of travelling to Morocco with kids. The country is well connected with international flights to and from Europe, North America and Middle East.
Morocco has 8 main international airports.
International airports in Morocco:
- Casablanca
- Marrakech
- Rabat
- Essaouira
- Ouarzazate
- Agadir
- Fes
- Tangier
Casablanca is the country’s major airport and hub for the national carrier, Royal Air Maroc. Or there are daily flights with budget carriers like Ryan Air from Europe to Morocco.
Travel to Morocco by land
Morocco shares its border with two countries: Algeria and Mauritania.
The border between Morocco and Algeria is closed and has been closed for years. But it is possible to cross the border from Morocco to Mauritania.
- Read all about crossing the Morocco – Mauritania border from Dakhla to Nouadhibou. .
It is also possible to cross overland from Morocco to the Spanish enclave of Ceuta in the north of the country.
- Read how to cross the border from Morocco to Ceuta, Spain.
Travel to Morocco by sea
It is also possible – and easy – to enter Morocco at the port borders in the north of the country at:
- Tangier Med
- Ceuta
- Nador
It is possible to bring a vehicle or motorhome with you to Morocco on the ferry from Europe. (This is what we did!).
- Read how to travel to Morocco with a motorhome on the ferry from Algeciras, Spain to Tangier Med.
Transportation for family travel and getting around in Morocco
We reckon the best way to travel within Morocco with kids is by car. It is convenient to rent a car and it means you can travel at your own pace and stop whenever you want.
The public transport network with trains, buses and taxis in Morocco is also relatively easy to navigate.
If you aren’t keen on driving, you can use trains and public transport between the major cities.
Getting around Morocco by rental car
Renting a car in Morocco gives you the ultimate freedom to explore in any direction and at your own pace of travel. Car rental in Morocco costs between 15 and 50 USD a day.
The price will depend on the company that you rent with and the model you rent. Don’t be put off by concerns of self-navigating Morocco. People are friendly and travelling at your own pace is a great option for Morocco with kids.
If you are traveling with young children and wondering about a car seat. It is a legal requirement in Morocco for young kids to use a car seat. Though you will commonly see local kids travelling unrestrained.
It is possible to hie a car seat with your rental car. Or you can bring your own travel booster seat.
- Read our complete guide to driving in Morocco.
Getting around Morocco by bus
The intercity buses in Morocco are a good option. Buses are a cheaper form of intercity transport than the train. However, it usually does take longer by bus.
In Morocco, the tourist buses are (mostly) modern with air-conditioning and comfortable seats.
CTM and SupraTours are the main intercity bus companies in Morocco.
It is possible to book tickets online for Supratours and CTM or you can book in person at the bus station. (Easier; and definitely more reliable).
- Tip: A bus ticket between Marrakech and Casablanca costs 80 – 110 MAD ($8 – $11 USD) per person for the 4-hour trip.
Getting around Morocco by train
The best way to travel between the main Moroccan cities is by train.
There are options of the classic, local trains that travel intercity. Or between the major cities, there is the high-speed, Al Boraq Train.
In fact, Morocco now has Africa’s fastest trains traveling at 300km/h (186mph) linking Tangier, Rabat and Casablanca every hour over a new high-speed line!
Classic trains link northern Tangier and Casablanca with Meknes, Fes and Marrakech.
- Read about visiting Tangier by train on a day trip.
Getting around in Morocco by taxi
There are different types of taxis to get around Morocco.
- Petit Taxi: These are small cars to get around town and can hold up to three people. (Only three passengers are allowed at a time). They’re very cheap to use and you can just wave one down and negotiate your price upfront.
- Grande Taxi: These are shared taxis that can carry up to six passengers and travel inter-city. They often won’t leave the taxi station until full but because they are so popular the wait is not usually long.
- Private Taxi: Operates the same as any taxi anywhere.
Note that not all taxis are metered so make sure to negotiate and agree on a fare before driving.
One of the challenges of getting a taxi in Morocco with kids is that the Petit Taxis can only take three passengers. This is tricky for a family of four!
The chances are you will need to get a Private Taxi (or Grande Taxi) for your family.
Money in Morocco
The Moroccan dirham is the official currency of Morocco.
These are the approximate exchange rates with USD/EUR:
- 10 MAD = 1 USD
- 100 MAD = 10 USD
- 1000 MAD = 100 USD
Dirham are available in banknotes of 20, 50, 100 and 200. Coins are available in denominations of 1/2, 1, 2, 5 and 10 dirham.
ATMs in Morocco
You can find ATMs in the main cities and towns in Morocco.
Credit cards (VISA and Mastercard) are accepted at mainstream city accommodations, high-end restaurants, large supermarkets and shopping malls.
However, Morocco is a cash-based society. You will need to always carry cash with you in Moroccan Dirham.
ATMs in Morocco will give you a maximum of 2,000 – 4000 MAD per transaction (approximately 200 – 400 EUR/USD.)
These are the ATM’s in Morocco we have used (mostly successfully) to withdraw local currency:
- BMCI
- Societe Generale
- Attijariwafa Bank
- Banque Populaire
Morocco has fairly high withdrawal charges with a standard withdrawal fee (regardless of amount withdrawn) of 35 MAD.
How much does it cost to travel in Morocco with kids?
It really depends on how long you have, where you go and ultimately your Morocco itinerary.
But to give you an idea of some of the prices for food and day-to-day items in Morocco, here are some typical prices.
- Bottle of water (1.5L): 6 MAD
- Bread: 2 MAD
- Tagine (4 person): 100 MAD
- Cappuccino: 20 MAD
- Orange juice (fresh): 20 MAD
- Sprite or Coke (330ml): 6 MAD
- Sandwich/Panini: 35 MAD
- Meal at McDonalds: 65 MAD
- Bananas (1kg): 15 MAD
- Milk (1L): 8 MAD
- Beer (330ml): 25 – 40 MAD
- Wine (750ml): 60 – 110 MAD
- Petrol (1L): 14 MAD
- Diesel (1L): 13 MAD
Typically, meals costs between 5 and 10 USD (50 – 100 MAD). Street food is obviously much cheaper.
Accommodation in Morocco usually includes breakfast – which is great for travel with kids!
Bargaining (fairly) and tips
Albeit shopping in Morocco – with or without kids – can sometimes feel a little chaotic and overwhelming, especially in the busy souks and cities.
But certainly have a go at negotiating a price. Most items at the souks and markets in Morocco are open for some negotiation unless they have a fixed price or sign stating otherwise.
- Don’t be shy to bargain (fairly): Haggling is part of the shopping culture in Morocco. Just make sure you do it respectfully and that both parties are happy with the outcome.
- Carry cash: The souks and markets in Morocco are often cash only, especially for smaller items.
- Let the kids have a turn: Kids can have a go negotiating too.
Often kids turn out to be better at haggling – the cuteness factor usually renders better prices than us adults!
- Read about souvenirs and gifts from Morocco plus tips for shopping.
Connectivity and WIFI in Morocco
In general, internet and WIFI connection is good (surprisingly so by travel standards) across the country.
Hotels and accommodation in the cities will have WIFI available (at varying speeds). In the desert regions and further south in Morocco the connection is often weaker.
If you rely on WIFI for work I suggest tethering to your SIM card with data. See below, but the mobile networks are often faster and more reliable.
Getting a SIM card for Morocco
There are three mobile network operators: Maroc Telecom, Orange and INWI.
It is easy to buy a prepaid SIM card on arrival at the airports and at Tangier Med (ferry port). Or in the cities you will see roving vendors wearing branded t-shirts of the different network providers selling SIM cards and recharge vouchers.
Data is inexpensive and it is straightforward to recharge prepaid connections using scratch cards that can be purchased at kiosks and convenience stores all over the country.
However the easiest thing for a short trip travelling in Morocco is to get a prepaid eSIM.
- Read all about buying a SIM card in Morocco and options for the best Morocco eSIM.
Tips for travel in Morocco with kids
Lastly, here are some practical tips on travelling to Morocco with kids.
- Be aware of and respectful of culture and customs. Morocco is an Islamic country.
- Dress modestly. For adults, err on the side of modesty with dress, especially in the rural regions. Young kids are fine in shorts and a t-shirt.
- Pack light, breathable clothes. Adults – especially women – should wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
- Learn the greeting, ‘Salam’ or ‘A-Salam Alaykum’ in Arabic.
- Don’t worry about travel to Morocco during Ramadan. This is a special time to visit – it is a particularly family-oriented time – and it is a great experience for the whole family.
- Eat the food and try new tastes. But don’t drink the tap water.
- Respect the seasons. Bring a fleece or jacket if you are staying overnight in the desert or Atlas Mountains.
- Pack a sunhat and sunscreen.
- Take an adapter. Morocco uses Type C and E plugs.
- Bargaining is fun and offers an interesting cultural insight into the artistic traditions of Morocco. But do some research first and be sure to negotiate fairly. (Kids are good at bargaining!).
- If you’re wanting to take a picture of a person’s face, always ask permission.
- Carry cash. Withdraw Moroccan dirham at the airport on arrival. Payment by card is limited outside of mainstream franchise stores and large accommodation.
- Get an eSIM or physical SIM card for travel in Morocco.
- Get travel insurance for Morocco.
Always, trust your gut. As parents we have a great natural instinct!
- Read more about tips for travel in Morocco.
Accommodation options for family travel in Morocco
As far as accommodation tips for travelling to Morocco with kids – we recommend you stay at least once in a traditional Riad.
A riad is a traditional Moroccan house that typically features a central courtyard and rooftop terrace. Usually there will be family suites or large rooms available.
Typically the riads are in the old city or medina of each destination, which makes it ideal location-wise for families.
Budget riads in Marrakech
Mid-range riads in Marrakech
Luxury riads in Marrakech
Accommodation – Where to stay in Fes
Most riads are in the Fes Medina or the nearby Mellah neighbourhood.
- Budget: Riad Dar Mansoura
Impeccable reviews and located just outside of the main Medina area. A cosy courtyard and Moroccan breakfast included.
- Mid-Range: Dar Seffarine
This is an impeccably restored Riad with home-cooked, communal dinners.
- Mid-Range: Riad Anata
A small boutique riad with splashy décor and communal rooftop space.
- Mid-Range: Dar Bensouda
Minimal mid-range riad style accommodation with a courtyard plunge pool.
- Mid-Range-Luxury: Riad Zamane & Spa
Situated right in the heart of the Medina. Only a short walk from the main gate Bab Boujeloud.
Accommodation – Where to stay in Chefchaouen
There is a good choice and range of accommodation in Chefchaouen from backpacking hostels to affordable traditional Riads.
- Budget: Hotel Souika
A low-cost budget hostel with private rooms plus a fantastic rooftop terrace with views of the city.
- Budget / Mid-Range: Aparthotel Dar Nowara Chaouen
Immaculate cleanliness and conveniently located opposite the mosque in the centre of the town.
- Mid-Range: La Petite Chefchaouen
A cute boutique guesthouse with accommodation options for families with kids.
- Mid-Range: Casa Blue Star
A distinctly blue-themed riad capturing the essence of Chefchaouen.
- Mid-Range: Casa Perleta
An authentic riad with traditional Moroccan interior design tucked in a small alley just a few minutes from the Bab Souk gate.
Our verdict on travelling in Morocco with kids?
If you are on the fence or thinking about travel to Morocco with kids; book it.
Morocco is an amazing destination for family travel. We feel grateful for all the experiences we’ve shared over eight months of travel in Morocco with kids – and we are already planning the next trip!
Where to next on your Morocco itinerary?
Here are some other itinerary ideas for Morocco.
- 5x Itineraries for 7-days in Morocco.
- 10 days in Morocco? 5x Morocco itinerary options.
- Plan 2-days in Marrakech.
- 8-day Morocco itinerary: Marrakech to Zagora and M’Hamid.
- 10-day Morocco itinerary: Tangier to Fes, Chefcahouen and Marrakech.
Read more about travel in Morocco with kids
See our detailed destination and city guides for more of Morocco.
- Read more about the things to do in Chefcahouen, Casablanca, Tangier, Tetouan, Agadir, Taghazout and Tamraght, Fes and Rabat.
More tips for travelling to Morocco and beyond
These are the companies we use and can recommend for planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. It is easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere online.
- Skyscanner– This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide– Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world. Everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). Make sure you have insurance before planning any shopping for souvenirs and gifts from Morocco!
