Moroccan Family Adventure: City, Coast, and Desert Expedition – 10 Days

Today, delve deeper into the wonders of Casablanca with a guided tour tailored to the entire family. Your driver will accompany you to various sites where you can learn about the city’s history, immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere, and let the kids burn off some energy. Begin by strolling through the old souk, where you can indulge in delectable pastries on a terrace while savoring mint tea.

Explore the expansive sandy beach in the Ain Diab district and visit the New Medina (Quartier Habous), a neighborhood established in the 1930s showcasing charming streets and Art Deco architecture. Make sure to visit Mohamed V Square, a spacious square adorned with towering palm trees and French colonial buildings. Don’t miss the iconic Rick’s Café, made famous by the legendary film “Casablanca.” Conclude the tour at Notre Dame Church, a remarkable example of European modernism constructed in 1956.

Later in the day, embark on a guided tour of the renowned Hassan II Mosque, the largest mosque in Morocco and the second-largest in the world. Unlike many mosques, it warmly welcomes non-Muslims, offering an exceptional opportunity for families to gain firsthand insights into local culture and beliefs. Marvel at the opulent interior adorned with exquisite green hues, mosaic tiles, and a harmonious blend of wood, marble, and intricately carved stone, complemented by grand arches and ornate ceilings. After a fulfilling day of exploration, take some time to peacefully soak in the mosque’s majestic ambiance, appreciating the beauty that surrounds you.

Embark on a scenic coastal journey today as we transfer southwest to Essaouira, just a four-hour drive from Casablanca. Upon arriving at your hotel, drop off your bags and get ready to explore the city with the guidance of a friendly local.

Essaouira boasts a fascinating history influenced by various cultures, including the Berbers, Phoenicians, Romans, and Portuguese. The city’s iconic fortress and ramparts, built by the Portuguese in 1506, stand as enduring symbols of its past. As you meander through the medina’s wide and vibrant streets, spanning 75 acres (30 ha), you’ll encounter bustling souks, street vendors, leafy plazas, and charming whitewashed houses adorned with ornate wooden doors.

Follow these enchanting streets to Mulay El-Hassan Square, where you’ll find an array of inviting restaurants and hotels. Take a stroll to the nearby harbor and witness the skilled craftsmanship of local fishermen as they build fishing boats, mend nets, and prepare fishing lines. For a dose of history, explore the 16th-century Portuguese Castelo Real of Mogador, along with the Borj El Barmil Tower and the Skala de la Kasbah, two impressive defensive structures.

To conclude the tour, your guide will take you to the long, sandy beach. Here, the kids can run around freely and enjoy themselves while you soak up the sun’s warmth. Don’t forget to treat yourself to a refreshing ice cream as you unwind by the seaside.

Indulge in an exciting treasure hunt activity perfect for families today. Discover Essaouira’s medina in a unique way as you follow a parchment with eight riddles, a map, and a logbook highlighting cultural points of interest. Let the kids delight in the adventure, uncovering clues and learning about the city’s captivating pirate history, while you soak in the sights along the journey. Take your time and enjoy the activity at your own pace, customizing it to suit your family’s preferences. Plan for a duration of two to three hours, allowing for a memorable and interactive experience.

After an eventful morning, unwind in the afternoon at one of Essaouira’s tranquil beaches. For a more peaceful atmosphere, venture a few miles from the main beach to the serene locations of Cap Sim or Diabat. While these areas may have limited dining options, fear not, as your driver will provide a delightful picnic for your family to relish on the sandy shores. Watch as the kids joyfully eat while playing and exploring the beach. To add an extra element of fun, consider a camel ride along the waterfront, creating lasting memories for all. As the day draws to a close, witness the mesmerizing sunset painting the sky with breathtaking colors, providing a perfect conclusion to your day in Essaouira.

Take advantage of a leisurely morning to sleep in, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of your hotel, or venture out to explore more of Essaouira at your own pace. As the afternoon approaches, get ready for an experience that will delight animal lovers in your group—a gentle horseback riding excursion along the mesmerizing golden beaches of Essaouira.

Once you meet your guide, the entire family will receive a briefing on horse riding basics and become acquainted with their well-suited horses, chosen to match each person’s age and skill level. Embark on a trot along Essaouira’s expansive sandy shore, relishing in the refreshing ocean breeze and the invigorating scent of the sea. Leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind as your knowledgeable guide leads you to quieter, more serene areas along the beach. Marvel at the mesmerizing sight of the sun descending into the water, painting the sky with captivating hues. Bid farewell to your newfound equine companions and venture towards one of the charming sea-fronted restaurants for a relaxed and enjoyable family dinner.

Embark on a captivating inland journey today as we make our way to Marrakesh, a drive of approximately three hours. Keep the kids entertained along the route by challenging them to spot goats perched on argan trees. These clever animals love to climb the trees and feast on the fruit, creating a humorous sight that is often observed during our drive through the region’s picturesque rolling plains.

Upon arrival in Marrakesh, settle into your accommodation and take a leisurely stroll through the bustling medina and vibrant souks, immersing yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Familiarize yourself with the local sights, sounds, and flavors before returning to your hotel to rest and recharge for this evening’s exciting excursion.

Morocco, being a cultural and geographical crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, boasts a culinary landscape influenced by a diverse array of cultures and nations. While Marrakesh offers many excellent restaurants, the most authentic and flavorful food can often be found in the homes of local families. Tonight, you’ll have the extraordinary opportunity to join a welcoming Moroccan family for dinner in the comfort of their home. Engage in conversations with your hosts and learn about the rich history behind various traditional dishes. This immersive experience not only allows you to delve deeper into Moroccan culture but also provides a chance to forge new friendships. It’s a memorable experience that both kids and adults will treasure, fostering a greater appreciation for the local way of life.

Immerse your family in the vibrant city of Marrakesh with a specially curated tour designed to captivate and entertain kids of all ages. This family-friendly adventure combines fun games, a treasure hunt, and interactive outdoor activities.

Begin by delving into the rich local traditions and culture as you explore notable attractions. Marvel at the stunning architecture of the Ben Youssef Madrasa and old palaces, immersing yourselves in the captivating history of Marrakesh. Wander through an open-air souk, where the kids can engage in exciting games and discover hidden treasures. Along the way, indulge in local treats and refreshing drinks, adding a delicious touch to your exploration.

For families with older kids who possess abundant energy, embark on an exhilarating cycle tour of Marrakesh and its surrounding areas in the afternoon. Make your way to the renowned Jardin Majorelle, meandering through the enchanting alleys of the medina on two wheels. Upon reaching the garden, take a moment to rejuvenate in its serene ambiance. Marvel at the vibrant architecture of the iconic home, originally designed by Orientalist artist Jacques Marjorelle and later owned by the renowned fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent until his passing in 2008.

This engaging tour ensures that the entire family can delight in the wonders of Marrakesh, creating lasting memories and fostering a deeper appreciation for the city’s beauty and heritage.

Kids are often naturally curious in the kitchen and like to help out, so nurture this curiosity today with a cooking class at a local nonprofit center. Discover the distinctive flavors of authentic Moroccan cuisine and learn culinary tips and tricks that you and the kids can replicate later at home. Children will enjoy trying to identify the smell and taste of various ingredients while blindfolded before taking a step-by-step lesson in cooking a traditional chicken tajine. Enjoy eating your family’s creations after with a side of freshly-baked flatbread.

Later, make a trip to Austrian artist André Heller’s Anima Garden, around 18 miles (30 km) southwest of Marrakesh. You’ll feel like you’ve entered another world at this lush oasis, where art and nature are lovingly intertwined. The greenery of the artistic botanical garden in the otherwise barren landscape around Marrakesh is refreshing, and kids will enjoy exploring and running around the large, landscaped grounds.

Set off on a remarkable journey southward today, driving towards the enchanting Agafay Desert nestled beneath the majestic High Atlas mountains. While the drive from Marrakesh takes about 90 minutes, we’ll make several stops along the way to enhance your experience.

Our first stop is the charming town of Tahnaout, where you can visit an argan oil cooperative and discover the traditional production methods of this prized Moroccan oil. Continuing our journey, we pass through the vibrant city of Asni, known for its traditional Berber souk, which comes alive every Saturday with local trade and socializing. Take a moment to unwind with a refreshing glass of mint tea, preparing for the next part of our adventure.

Embark on an enjoyable hike towards Armed, the largest and highest village in the picturesque Imlil Valley. As we descend through the village of Ait Souka, you’ll have the opportunity to spend time with a warm Berber family, immersing yourself in their way of life and savoring a traditional Moroccan meal at their welcoming guesthouse. Enjoy a hearty lunch while experiencing the authentic local culture.

As the day progresses, we resume our journey to Agafay, where a delightful surprise awaits the kids—a memorable stay in an authentic desert camp. Witness their excitement as they discover this unique accommodation experience. To fully appreciate the enchanting surroundings, embark on a camel ride across the arid plateau, witnessing the breathtaking sunset. Return to the camp in time for a memorable dinner beside a crackling bonfire under the starlit sky. This serene desert setting offers an extraordinary experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the desert and create lifelong memories. It serves as the perfect culmination to your last full day in Morocco, leaving you with a sense of wonder and fulfillment.

This morning, we bid a fond farewell to the captivating desert as we embark on a comfortable transfer back to Marrakesh, ensuring we arrive in ample time for your departure. If your flight allows for it, you may even have a chance to indulge in a final shopping excursion through the vibrant souks, where you can find unique souvenirs to commemorate your time in Morocco. However, be mindful not to lose yourself in the labyrinthine lanes!

Afterward, we’ll transfer you to the airport, where it’s time to say farewell to the enchanting country of Morocco. Cherish the memories created during your journey, and may your departure be filled with a sense of fulfillment and a yearning to return.