Morocco Family Expedition: From Marrakesh to Casablanca Adventure – 10 Days

Today is all about immersing your family in the enchanting city of Marrakesh. Begin your day with a specially curated tour designed for families—a thrilling treasure hunt! Led by your private guide, embark on a captivating journey through the historic Medersa (school) and the magnificent palaces of Marrakesh. Along the way, engaging games and activities will keep the kids entertained. Treat yourselves to delicious snacks from the vibrant open-air souk and delve into the bustling medina. To conclude the tour, your guide will crown a deserving Marrakesh expert and reward them with a prize, adding an extra element of excitement for the children.

After gaining a deeper understanding of the city, the afternoon offers a range of enticing options. Embark on a souvenir shopping adventure at the lively souks, where you can find unique treasures to commemorate your visit. Alternatively, venture outside the city and explore one of the renowned gardens. Consider a visit to the captivating Jardin Majorelle, which can be part of a memorable bike tour, or immerse yourselves in the beauty of the Anima Garden.

As the day progresses, head to the vibrant Jemaa el-Fna square, where your kids will marvel at the mesmerizing snake charmers, captivating storytellers, and mouthwatering food stalls. Take a moment to relax and soak in the atmosphere at one of the rooftop cafés or savor a delightful meal at a local restaurant. Don’t forget to indulge in the traditional thé à la menthe (mint tea), a delicious treat that should not be missed.

Prepare for an extraordinary morning filled with breathtaking views and a memorable hot air balloon ride to witness the sunrise over the desert. Although an early wake-up call awaits, the experience will be worth every moment. As you and your kids embark on this adventure, you’ll be captivated by the thrill of the journey and the serenity of the tranquil colors and crisp morning air. The contrast with the bustling city is truly remarkable. Gaze upon picturesque villages, rolling hills, and vast stretches of desert, all framed by majestic mountains. To enhance this remarkable experience, enjoy a delectable breakfast in the air, savoring the finest Moroccan pastries.

But that’s not all the culinary delights in store for your family today. How about switching roles and letting the kids take charge in the kitchen? Head to the Amal Center, where you and your family will participate in a delightful culinary workshop. Get ready for an interactive experience as you begin with a blindfolded challenge, trying to guess the contents of various spice jars. The winner will be rewarded with a scrumptious pastry! As the workshop progresses, you’ll learn the fundamentals of Moroccan cooking, with a focus on preparing a mouthwatering chicken tajine. While your creation simmers over the fire, gain insights into the Amal Center and its commendable efforts in training disadvantaged women for future employment opportunities. This inspiring experience will leave the entire family motivated and equipped with newfound culinary skills to practice and enjoy back home.

Today’s adventure involves a bit of driving, approximately 6.5 hours in total. However, fear not, as the day is filled with captivating stops that will keep even the little ones engaged, making the time fly by! Prepare to embark on a scenic journey as you traverse the Tizi n’Tichka Pass and the majestic High Atlas mountains, unveiling breathtaking vistas, traditional Berber villages crafted from mud brick, and picturesque farmland.

Your first stop is Taddert, where you’ll have the opportunity to visit an argan oil cooperative. Here, you’ll gain insights into the extraction process and discover the versatile uses of this precious oil in food, cosmetics, and health products.

Continuing your descent from the pass, you’ll arrive at the renowned Aït Benhaddou Kasbah, an extraordinary medieval citadel recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a break from your journey and wander through its ancient streets, soaking in the historic ambiance. Next, venture to Ouarzazate, often referred to as Morocco’s Hollywood. Explore a movie studio or visit the Musée du Cinema, where you can delve into the fascinating world of filmmaking and get up close with props and sets.

As your drive progresses, you’ll enter the captivating Dadès Valley and make your way to Kelâat M’Gouna, also known as the “Valley of the Roses.” Here, your driver will pause, allowing you to visit a collective and witness firsthand how skilled artisans transform rose petals into fragrant rose water and oil. Keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of traditional nomads and admire the picturesque farmland that adorns this region. Your final destination for the day is Boumalne Dades, a significant town nestled along the banks of the Dades River.

Get ready for an exhilarating day of adventure as your expert guide drives your family to Merzouga, with captivating stops at various Saharan desert communities along the way. As you traverse the awe-inspiring red limestone Todra Gorge, reaching an impressive height of 984 feet (300 m), you’ll catch your first glimpse of the Sahara in the vibrant town of Erfoud. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to visit artisans and witness the remarkable transformation of locally-obtained fossil-rich rock into exquisite tables, plates, and bowls. Continuing your journey, you’ll make a stop in Rissani, where the kids will be fascinated by the lively donkey “parking lot” and can enjoy exploring the bustling market. Make sure to visit Maison Tuareg, a treasure trove of traditional arts and crafts.

As you venture forth, the tall dunes of Erg Chebbi will gradually come into view, stretching across an impressive 14 square miles (35 sq km). Some peaks soar over 650 feet (200 m) high, displaying an ever-changing color and shape influenced by the time of day and the wind. Once you arrive at the dunes, embrace the opportunity to rent sandboards for an exhilarating exploration. The younger members of the family can enjoy a gentle cruise down the smaller slopes, while the more adventurous can aim for greater heights—the larger the dune, the longer the ride!

As you approach Merzouga, prepare for a truly memorable experience—the highlight of your transport and accommodation so far. Arrive at luxury tents in a unique and traditional manner, mounted on the gentle “ships of the desert” known as camels. The kids will be enthralled by the sensation of gliding across the sands. However, the excitement doesn’t end there. Once settled in, take a short journey to the nearest dune and witness a breathtaking sunset, painting the desert in warm hues. Return to camp and gather around the campfire, where you’ll be treated to traditional Berber music, immersing yourselves in the rich cultural heritage of the region. The kids will be astounded by the vast expanse of stars visible in the clear desert sky, unobstructed by the lights and structures of a city.

Sit back and relax as your private driver takes the reins, transporting your family to the captivating city of Fes. Along the way, you’ll pass through the scenic Ziz Valley, renowned for its picturesque hidden oases and clusters of palm trees. Keep a lookout for historic ksars that dot the landscape—these fortified tribal villages were constructed by merchants of bygone eras to safeguard their valuable produce. Take a break in Midelt, aptly nicknamed “the Apple City,” and indulge in a satisfying lunch. Witness the marvel of fruit cultivation in the desert, made possible by the nearby River Moulouya.

Continuing your journey, you’ll ascend the Col du Zad pass, reaching an elevation of 7,146 feet (2,178 meters), and venture through the enchanting cedar forests of the Middle Atlas mountains. The kids will delight in spotting families of Barbary macaque monkeys, frolicking in the trees and along the roadside. Passing through Azrou, you’ll finally arrive in Fes during the late afternoon—an ideal time to explore the diverse shops within the medina and relish a delightful dinner in this ancient Imperial city.

Immerse your family in the vibrant atmosphere of one of Morocco’s most significant cities, Fes. With its historical importance as the home of the world’s oldest university and its rich Arab-Muslim heritage, Fes offers a captivating journey through time. Your knowledgeable guide will lead your family through the ancient medina, revealing its hidden nooks, labyrinthine alleyways, and breathtaking rooftop views. As you navigate the largest urban pedestrian area in the world, you’ll encounter an array of artisans, bakers, mosques, roadside inns known as foundouk, and even traditional tanneries. Prepare to be fully immersed in the bustling local life that thrives here. Take a moment to pause at one of the terraces, sip on refreshing mint tea, and soak in the vibrant surroundings.

To truly engage with the local culture, involve the kids in a hands-on pottery and mosaic workshop. Led by a skilled local craftsman, your family will learn the art of cutting and creating intricate zellige tilework—a hallmark of Fes’s exquisite architectural designs. Enjoy a tea break during the workshop, where you can ask questions and deepen your understanding of this beautiful traditional craft. Both kids and adults will gain a newfound appreciation for the stunning artwork that adorns the city’s buildings.

In the evening, venture off the beaten path for an unforgettable experience. Fes is renowned for its exceptional cuisine, and what better way to be introduced to it than by enjoying the warm hospitality of a local family? Delight in the flavors of authentic Moroccan dishes prepared with recipes passed down through generations. This unique opportunity allows your family to engage with Moroccan life, culture, and cuisine on a personal level, providing a glimpse into the lives of locals and the chance to connect with other children—a rare and cherished encounter that few tourists have the privilege to experience.

Start your day with a satisfying breakfast before embarking on a scenic drive towards the picturesque Rif mountains, making your way to the enchanting “Blue Pearl of Morocco,” Chefchaouen. Along the journey, you’ll have a captivating stop at the ancient Roman outpost of Volubilis, a UNESCO-listed site renowned for its remarkable ruins. Explore the well-preserved townhouses, wander through the rooms, and marvel at the intricate mosaic decorations. As your kids immerse themselves in the rich history, they’ll be transported back in time, imagining life in what was once Rome’s farthest outpost.

Continuing northward, you’ll reach Chefchaouen by early afternoon—a town often hailed as one of the most beautiful in Morocco. Prepare to be enchanted by the otherworldly ambiance of this artistic mountain village, renowned for its mesmerizing blue-washed architecture. As you stroll through the car-free medina, allow the kids to wander freely and revel in the delights of fresh orange juice or a refreshing ice cream treat. The heart of the town lies in the Outa El Hamam square, where you can enjoy lively music and entertainment. Take the time to explore the kasbah or simply relax, immersing yourselves in the captivating atmosphere that surrounds you. Chefchaouen promises a truly unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Today, break up your journey from Fes to Casablanca with a captivating visit to the imperial city of Rabat, which has served as Morocco’s capital since 1956. As the country’s second-largest city and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Rabat offers a wealth of exploration opportunities. Discover the intriguing Chellah Necropolis, a medieval fortification with a fascinating history. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming medina, where you can admire the iconic Hassan Tower and pay your respects at the Mausoleum of Mohamed V. Allow the kids to frolic in the delightful Andalusian Gardens before passing through the magnificent gate of the Kasbah des Oudaïas, bidding farewell to Rabat’s old city center.

Continue your journey to Casablanca, where you can begin to familiarize yourself with the city by exploring its medina. However, the highlight of your visit to Casablanca awaits—a guided tour of the awe-inspiring Hassan II Mosque. As the second-largest mosque in the world, it boasts an array of remarkable features, including a museum, baths, Koranic school, library, and a prayer room with a capacity to accommodate 25,000 worshippers (with an additional 80,000 in the courtyard). Prepare to be mesmerized by the lavish ornamentation and intricate craftsmanship that adorns this architectural masterpiece. Don’t forget to gaze up at the world’s tallest minaret—a sight to behold! Conclude the day by enjoying a delightful dinner at one of the restaurants overlooking the ocean, relishing both the culinary delights and the stunning coastal views.

Today marks the end of your remarkable Moroccan adventure. After savoring a leisurely breakfast and bidding farewell to Casablanca, your private driver will accompany you to the airport. However, before your departure, take a moment to enjoy a final stroll around the city, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. If time permits, consider visiting Plage Lalla Meryem for a couple of hours of beach relaxation, allowing you to unwind and create lasting memories before catching your flight. Wishing you safe travels and fond memories of your time in Morocco!