Morocco provides an assortment of sights and sounds that give travelers a sense of the charm and exotic wonders of this region. Picturesque landscapes come to life in snowcapped High Atlas Mountains and the golden Sahara Desert dunes. Authentic Moroccan life is found in the many quaint villages and towns that are quietly tucked away between more vibrant cities such as Marrakech and Casablanca.
All of these elements come together to create a colorful playground for families to explore for lasting memories. A Morocco family tour typically begins in the city of Marrakesh. Over the course of the adventure, families can engage in activities such as a camel ride through the Erg Chigaga region of the Sahara or take to the waters in a surf camp.
The Morocco family holiday begins as families meet in Marrakesh. As the holiday begins, so does the adventure. Families receive a tour of the Marrakesh Medina that includes stops at the Koranic School and Djem Alfna Square. An historical perspective of Morocco is highlighted with visits to various ancient tombs and the garden of times gone by to give families a better sense of how life in Morocco came to be and where it is headed in the future.
On the third day, families depart from Marrakesh and head for the majestic High Atlas Mountains. From here, the journey continues to the fabulous city of Zagora. Families are welcomed into the city through a massive palm tree grove blanketing either side of the riverbed. Here is where the first overnight stay will occur. For some cooling relaxation, families are able to take advantage of an available swimming pool.
As morning comes, the Morocco family tour moves towards the Sahara Desert. This can only mean one thing is in store for the travelers, camel rides. The Sahara Desert is known for its rough exterior and soft interior. Massive sand dunes exist in the distance with barren land space in between just waiting to be explored. After some time spent becoming acquainted with the selected camels, families venture off for desert exploration.
Day five of the family adventure gives a peek into Morocco’s version of Hollywood with a trip to Ouarzazate. Popular American films such as Gladiator and The Mummy were filmed on set locations housed at the Atlas Studios. Ouarzazate is an up and coming city in Morocco that has the potential of being the next Marrakesh. After a day on the studio lot, families can unwind with a swim in the pool and a delectable meal.
As the family Morocco adventure starts to wind down, the action stays on course with a stop in Taroudannt. Visiting here is like venturing into an entirely different part of Moroccan life. A scenic view of mountains in the distant horizon feed into that approach.
There is a noticeable absence of hustle and bustle activity that is common in other Moroccan cities. Life seems to play out in a much slower pace providing the perfect opportunity for families to relax a bit and reflect on portions of the family adventure already completed.
Following a day of rest and relaxation, the Morocco family holiday focuses on the kids, both big and small alike. Surfing is the order of the day as the adventure brings families to the sunshine filled city of Agadir. Here parents can bask under the warmth of Moroccan sunshine while the kids learn how to ride the waves in surf camp.
The final surreal locale on the itinerary is a visit to the Essaouira, known as Morocco’s wind capital. Everything from wind surfing, kite boarding and horseback riding is available for enjoyment by the families. There are enough activities available here to please each member of the family.
With plenty of adventure behind them, the families return to Marrakesh for one last day of Morocco adventure. At this point in the trip, the trip is a little more on the shopping and relaxation side than it is physical – but be prepared to bargain for your wares. Pick up souvenirs or gifts for friends and family back home to showcase the thrills, chills and excitement that combined to create a memorable Morocco family tour.
By Sam Mitchell
