Planning a Family Trip to Morocco

Focus your itinerary on a 10-day loop starting in Marrakech, heading through the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara, and ending in Fes. Prioritize private drivers over buses to keep travel times manageable and stress-free for children.

  1. Limit your destinations. Don't try to see the whole country. Stick to the 'Imperial City' loop—Marrakech, the desert, and Fes. Adding the northern coast adds 8+ hours of driving that kids rarely enjoy.
  2. Hire a private driver. For a family, hiring a private driver for the transit days (specifically the Marrakech to Merzouga leg) costs about $150–$200 per day. It allows you to stop for bathroom breaks or snacks whenever the kids need it, which public transport won't permit.
  3. Book Riads with pools. Riads are traditional homes with central courtyards. In the heat of Moroccan afternoons, a pool in your riad is the only way to keep kids occupied and cool while you rest.
  4. Schedule morning activities only. Plan tours and heavy walking for 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Retreat to your accommodation during the peak heat and noise of the afternoon, then venture back out for dinner.
Are Moroccan medinas safe for children?
Yes, but they are chaotic. Keep younger children in a carrier, and for older children, establish a 'hold hands at all times' rule due to the constant flow of motorbikes in narrow alleys.
Can I find diapers and formula easily?
Yes, major brands like Pampers are available in pharmacies (pharmacie) in cities like Marrakech and Fes. Bring a small supply for the first 48 hours just in case.