Experience the vibrant charm of Morocco on a delightful week-long family adventure. Begin your journey by exploring the lively souks of Marrakesh, where you’ll immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of colors and cultural treasures. Next, venture to the tranquil coastal town of Essaouira and indulge in its serene beachside atmosphere. Discover the enchanting Majorelle Gardens, home to magnificent water lilies, and witness the breathtaking sunset from the rooftops of Jemaa el-Fna square. Embark on a culinary exploration, tantalizing your taste buds with a delectable food tour. Conclude your unforgettable trip by riding camels along Essaouira’s picturesque sandy beach and savoring the delights of fresh seafood cuisine.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Marrakesh | Marrakesh |
| Day 2 | Explore Marrakesh, Visit Majorelle Gardens | Marrakesh |
| Day 3 | Marrakesh Family-Friendly Food Tour & Tasting | Marrakesh |
| Day 4 | Transfer to Essaouira, Argan Oil Women's Cooperative Visit | Essaouira |
| Day 5 | Relax & Explore in Essaouira | Essaouira |
| Day 6 | Camel Riding Adventure, Horseback Riding on the Beach | Essaouira |
| Day 7 | Transfer to Marrakesh, Depart |
Welcome to Morocco! This vibrant North African country is a fusion of Arab, Jewish, and Berber cultures, with a touch of European influence from its proximity to Spain and French colonization. It’s a fantastic destination for families, offering a plethora of captivating experiences in its bustling souks, kasbahs, dunes, deserts, and beaches, catering to the curious minds of all ages.
Upon arrival, a private driver will greet you and escort you to your riad, a traditional guesthouse located in Marrakesh’s medina, the city’s historic old town. The medina is a labyrinth of narrow streets and lively markets. Take some time to settle into your riad, marveling at its beautiful architecture featuring scalloped archways, fountains, and a central open-air courtyard designed to provide respite from the desert heat. Some riads even have their own plunge pools.
Once you’re ready, gather your family and set out to explore. Your first destination is the city center, where Jemaa el-Fna square awaits—the vibrant heart of Marrakesh. This bustling square offers an array of entertainment for kids, including musicians, jugglers, and local vendors with their stalls and food carts. Find a rooftop café, sip a refreshing glass of mint tea, and raise a toast to the beginning of your memorable family adventure.
Start your day with a delightful breakfast on your sun-filled terrace, filling you with energy for a day of exploration in Marrakesh with your children. Begin the morning with a guided tour and interactive treasure hunt, allowing the little ones to uncover the city’s hidden gems. Discover the captivating architecture of the Ben Youssef Madrasa, meander through the vibrant souks, and let the surroundings ignite the kids’ imagination as they delve into the rich traditions of this enchanting and hospitable city.
Take a refreshing break in the medina, enjoying a cool drink and a delicious bite to eat, before making your way to the Majorelle Gardens. These splendid gardens, designed by the renowned French artist Jacques Majorelle and once owned by Yves Saint Laurent, encompass two acres of vibrant colors. Encourage the kids to embark on a quest to find the giant water lilies and lotus flowers as you wander amidst the bamboo and cacti, accompanied by the melodies of over 15 bird species native to North Africa.
The remainder of the afternoon is yours to savor at your own pace. Unwind in the comfort of your riad, take a refreshing dip in the plunge pool, or venture to Jemaa el-Fna. As the sun begins to set, the square comes alive with snake charmers, captivating storytellers, and the aroma of tantalizing food stalls. Choose a child-friendly café to witness the mesmerizing sunset while listening for the evocative sounds of the evening call to prayer. Later, venture into the medina for a scrumptious meal before retiring for the night, cherishing the cherished memories of the day.
Embark on a delightful morning in the medina, accompanied by your children, as you take a leisurely stroll and engage in the art of bartering with the local stallholders. The vibrant aromas and enticing delicacies on display may awaken your appetite, making it the ideal time to embark on a private food tour.
Indulge in a few hours of culinary exploration, treating your taste buds to a variety of traditional delights during this exclusive family-friendly food tour. From Morocco’s delectable sweets to the rich flavors of an authentic tajine, each stop on the tour promises a unique gastronomic experience. Witness the joy on your children’s faces as they encounter new flavors and immerse themselves in the vibrant sensory journey. As you wander through picturesque alleyways, your knowledgeable guide will share insights about essential ingredients, cooking techniques, and the rich culinary heritage of the country, creating treasured memories for you and your family to cherish.
On Day 4, bid farewell to the bustling atmosphere of Marrakesh and embark on a journey to the relaxed port city of Essaouira. Keep an eye out for the peculiar sight of goats feasting on the local argan fruit as your private driver escorts you to Morocco’s picturesque west coast. Traverse rolling plains and enchanting argan tree forests before making a detour to visit a local women’s argan oil cooperative. In this cooperative, you will witness the extraction process of oil from the small green fruits that grow on argan trees. Argan oil has been a cherished ingredient in Moroccan cuisine for centuries and has gained recognition as a highly valued beauty treatment in recent times.
Take your time exploring the cooperative, gaining insight into the traditional methods of oil extraction, and perhaps acquiring some of this coveted oil for yourself. Afterwards, resume your journey towards Essaouira. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation for a quick refresh before embarking on an adventure with your children. Begin your exploration by visiting the Skala de la Kasbah, the city’s 18th-century seafront ramparts. Adorned with old brass cannons, this spot offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, inviting your little ones to unleash their imagination and embrace their inner pirates.
The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Wander through the UNESCO-listed medina, immersing yourselves in the vibrant atmosphere, before venturing to the windswept beach where your children can revel in playful activities. Essaouira boasts an array of excellent dining options, ensuring a delightful evening for the whole family. Choose from one of the many welcoming restaurants, relish in the flavors of freshly caught seafood, and later, return to the ramparts to witness the awe-inspiring sunset that paints the sky with its mesmerizing hues.
Embrace the tranquil rhythm of Essaouira as you awaken to the soothing sounds of the sea and the playful calls of seagulls. Start your day with a delightful breakfast spread featuring fresh fruits, pastries, and yogurts. Then, set out on an exciting adventure with your children to discover the wonders of Essaouira and its captivating beaches. If your little ones enjoyed the treasure hunt discovery tour in Marrakesh, they’ll be thrilled to embark on a similar quest in Essaouira. Armed with a parchment of riddles, a map of the medina, and a logbook, uncover the city’s historical secrets while indulging in a playful exploration—pirates make frequent appearances!
Afterward, you have a range of options to choose from. Spend a leisurely day at Essaouira’s main beach, where you’ll find a variety of water sports, beachfront bars, and an array of child-friendly activities. For a more adventurous experience, venture further south to Cap Sim beach, boasting 12 miles (20 km) of stunning dunes. Pack a picnic, hike through the dunes, or simply relax while observing the windsurfers gracefully glide across the waters. Alternatively, your private driver can transport you to the remote beach of Diabat, where your children can delight in exploring the ruins of the 18th-century Borj el Baroud Castle, creating unforgettable memories in a truly unique setting.
Today, embrace the iconic sights of Essaouira’s colorfully adorned camels along the beach, an experience that will surely captivate your family. If your children haven’t already expressed their enthusiasm for a camel ride, now is the perfect time to fulfill their wish. Join a guided camel trek in the morning, embarking on a two-hour journey across stunning beaches, mesmerizing dunes, and picturesque forests. Marvel at the breathtaking scenery and enjoy magnificent views of the Atlantic coast while getting acquainted with these serene and gentle animals.
For those who prefer a more traditional mode of transportation, a horseback riding excursion along the beach is an excellent alternative. Spend a leisurely couple of hours trotting along the beautiful sandy stretch of Essaouira’s shoreline, leaving behind the hustle and bustle of daily life. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you to quieter areas, allowing you to soak in the tranquility and connect with the natural surroundings.
After your adventurous activities, seek out one of the delightful sea-fronted restaurants, where you can savor a delicious meal while reminiscing about your favorite moments of the trip. Relish in the joy of shared experiences and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
As your incredible journey in Morocco comes to a close, it’s time to say goodbye. With cherished memories etched in your hearts, your private driver will transport you from Essaouira to Marrakesh, where you will embark on your onward journey. Make your way to the airport with a sense of fulfillment and gratitude for the enriching experiences and cultural wonders you have encountered during your time in this captivating country.
Wishing you a safe and pleasant journey as you depart from Morocco, carrying with you the remarkable moments and fond memories that will last a lifetime.
