12-Day Ultimate Family Travel Guide Route in Morocco
Morocco is a sensory playground that offers an incredible blend of history, culture, and adventure. For families, the key to a successful Moroccan expedition is balancing the bustling energy of the medinas with wide-open spaces and child-friendly activities. This 12-day itinerary takes you through the 'Classic Route'—from the coastal breeze of Casablanca to the mystical dunes of the Sahara—ensuring the pace remains manageable for little explorers.
We have curated this journey to focus on comfort and accessibility. By utilizing the modern Al Boraq high-speed train and private transfers, you can avoid the fatigue of long travel days. Each stop includes stroller-friendly parks, interactive museums, or spacious riads that provide a peaceful sanctuary after a day of sightseeing. Get ready to create lifelong memories in the land of the setting sun.
Day 1: Casablanca, Morocco - Coastal Arrival
Arrival and Hotel Check-in
Land at Mohammed V International Airport and take a private transfer to your hotel. Casablanca is the modern heart of Morocco, making it an easy starting point for families to adjust to the new time zone.
Hassan II Mosque Visit
Marvel at one of the world's largest mosques. The exterior plaza is vast and completely stroller-accessible, allowing children to run around while you admire the intricate Zellij tilework.
La Corniche Stroll
Walk along the Atlantic coast on this wide, paved promenade. It is perfect for strollers and offers plenty of ice cream kiosks and ocean views to keep everyone happy.
Dinner at Rick's Café
Enjoy a relaxed family dinner in this famous recreations of the movie set. The atmosphere is upscale yet welcoming, offering a mix of Moroccan and international dishes.
Day 2: Casablanca to Rabat, Morocco - Capital Exploration
Train to Rabat
Take the short 1-hour train ride to the capital. The trains are modern, air-conditioned, and have plenty of space for luggage and family groups.
Kasbah of the Udayas
Explore this blue-and-white fortress. The main paths are relatively flat, and the Andalusian Gardens inside offer a shaded, quiet spot for a midday break.
Hassan Tower & Mausoleum
Visit this iconic 12th-century minaret. The open-air complex is easy to navigate with a stroller and provides great photo opportunities with the Royal Guards.
Rabat Marina Walk
End the day with a walk along the Bou Regreg river. Kids will love watching the small wooden boats cross between Rabat and Salé.
Day 3: Rabat to Chefchaouen, Morocco - Heading North
Private Transfer to the Blue City
Enjoy a comfortable 4-hour drive into the Rif Mountains. Private transfers are recommended for families as they allow for flexible bathroom and snack stops.
Plaza Uta el-Hammam Lunch
Settle into the main square for lunch. It is the heart of the city and a great place for kids to observe the local life while eating traditional tagine.
Chefchaouen Medina Entry
Start your exploration of the famous blue-washed streets. Note: The medina has many steps; a baby carrier is highly recommended over a stroller here.
Rooftop Dinner
Choose a riad with a terrace to enjoy the sunset over the mountains. The cooler mountain air is refreshing for children after a day of travel.
Day 4: Chefchaouen, Morocco - The Blue Dream
Ras El Maa Waterfall
Walk to this refreshing spring where locals wash laundry. It’s an easy walk and a great spot for kids to see water rushing down the mountain.
Kasbah Museum and Garden
Located in the main square, the Kasbah features a lovely garden and a small ethnographic museum that is quick and engaging for young minds.
Spanish Mosque Hike
For active families, the walk up to the Spanish Mosque offers the best panoramic views. The path is wide and safe, though it is an uphill climb.
Handicraft Shopping
Let the kids pick out small woven souvenirs. The vendors in Chefchaouen are generally very relaxed and friendly toward families.
Day 5: Chefchaouen to Fes, Morocco - The Cultural Heart
Transfer to Fes
Depart for Fes (approx. 4 hours). This route takes you through lush agricultural lands, offering a different view of the Moroccan landscape.
Bab Boujloud (Blue Gate)
Enter the world’s largest car-free urban area through this stunning gate. Grab a snack at a cafe nearby to soak in the atmosphere.
Jnan Sbil Gardens
A true oasis for families. These botanical gardens are flat, stroller-friendly, and provide a much-needed break from the intensity of the Fes medina.
Traditional Fessi Dinner
Try the famous pigeon pastilla (or chicken for the kids). Many restaurants in Fes occupy historic mansions with incredible interior courtyards.
Day 6: Fes, Morocco - Medieval Magic
Bou Inania Madrasa
Visit this stunning 14th-century religious school. The courtyard is peaceful and showcases the pinnacle of Moroccan craftsmanship.
Chouara Tannery Viewpoint
Avoid taking small children into the tannery itself; instead, go to the balconies of the leather shops for a view of the colorful dye pits from above.
Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts
Housed in a beautiful former inn, this museum is manageable for kids and features an elevator—a rarity in the medina!
Merenid Tombs Sunset
Take a quick taxi ride to these ruins on the hill. It’s a great place for kids to roam while parents enjoy the panoramic view of the old city.
Day 7: Fes to Merzouga, Morocco - The Sahara Journey
The Middle Atlas Drive
This is a long day (7-8 hours), but includes stops in Ifrane (the 'Switzerland of Morocco') and the Cedar Forest to see wild Barbary macaque monkeys.
Lunch in Midelt
A standard stopping point for families to stretch their legs and enjoy a hearty mountain meal before the landscape turns to desert.
Arrival in Merzouga
Arrive at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes. The sight of the massive orange sand dunes is a core memory for any child.
Stargazing in the Desert
With no light pollution, the Sahara sky is incredible. Most camps offer Berber drumming sessions around a campfire after dinner.
Day 8: Merzouga, Morocco - Dune Adventures
4x4 Desert Tour
Instead of long camel rides, a 4x4 tour is often more comfortable for kids. Visit Gnaoua musicians in Khamlia and see the seasonal salt lakes.
Nomadic Tea Visit
Visit a local nomadic family to see how they live. It’s an eye-opening and educational experience for children to see different lifestyles.
Sunset Camel Trek
A 30-minute camel ride into the dunes for sunset is just long enough for kids to enjoy without getting tired of the movement.
Sandboarding
Many camps provide sandboards. It’s like sledding but on sand—guaranteed fun for all ages.
Day 9: Merzouga to Ouarzazate, Morocco - Valley of the Kasbahs
Todra Gorge Stop
Drive through these massive limestone canyons. The river at the bottom is shallow and perfect for kids to dip their toes in.
Dades Valley Views
The 'Monkey Fingers' rock formations are a hit with kids who like to spot shapes in the stones.
Arrival in Ouarzazate
Known as 'Ouallywood,' this city is the center of Morocco's film industry and offers a more modern, spacious feel.
Kasbah Taourirt
Explore this historic fortified residence located right in the city center. It’s much easier to walk through than the larger medinas.
Day 10: Ouarzazate to Marrakech, Morocco - The High Atlas
Atlas Film Studios
Kids will recognize sets from movies like Gladiator or Star Wars. It’s an interactive and fun alternative to traditional museums.
Ait Ben Haddou
Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site. While there are steps, the lower parts of the village are manageable, and the river crossing is fun for children.
Tizi n'Tichka Pass
The drive to Marrakech over the High Atlas Mountains is scenic but winding. Keep some ginger candy handy for kids prone to motion sickness.
Jemaa el-Fnaa Intro
Arrive in Marrakech and see the square come alive at night. Stay on the perimeter to avoid the thickest crowds with a stroller.
Day 11: Marrakech, Morocco - Gardens & Palaces
Jardin Majorelle
The bright blue house and exotic plants are visually stunning. The paths are paved and perfect for strollers.
Bahia Palace
A sprawling palace with beautiful courtyards. Most of the ground floor is accessible, and the lack of furniture makes it easy for kids to walk around.
Cyber Park Arsat Moulay Abdeslam
A high-tech garden with free Wi-Fi and wide, paved paths. It’s a great local spot for a quiet afternoon play session.
Dinner in the Medina
Choose a restaurant with a terrace overlooking the square to enjoy the energy of Marrakech from a comfortable distance.
Day 12: Marrakech, Morocco - Souks & Farewell
Souk Exploration
Explore the spice and textile souks. The northern part of the medina is slightly wider and easier to navigate than the narrow alleys near the square.
Family Cooking Class
Many riads offer short, hands-on workshops where kids can learn to roll couscous or make simple Moroccan salads.
Koutoubia Mosque Gardens
The large park surrounding the minaret is a perfect place for a final run-around before heading to the airport.
Departure Transfer
Take a 20-minute taxi to Marrakech Menara Airport for your flight home, concluding your 12-day Moroccan adventure.
Best Time to Visit Morocco
The best time for a family trip to Morocco is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm but not scorching, making it comfortable for walking and outdoor activities. Summer (July and August) can be extremely hot, especially in Marrakech and the desert, which can be difficult for young children. Winter is lovely for the south, but mountain passes like Tizi n'Tichka may experience snow closures.
Currency & Money
The Moroccan Dirham (MAD) is the official currency. Morocco is still largely a cash-based society, especially in the souks and small cafes. While major hotels and restaurants in Marrakech or Casablanca accept credit cards, you should always carry cash for daily expenses. Tipping (baksheesh) is a part of the culture; a small tip for luggage porters, waiters, or helpful guides is always appreciated. ATMs are widely available in all major cities.
Getting Around Morocco
Intercity travel in Morocco is surprisingly efficient. The Al Boraq high-speed train connects Casablanca and Rabat quickly. For the rest of the country, CTM and Supratours are reliable bus companies. However, for families, hiring a private driver or renting a car offers the most flexibility. Within cities like Marrakech or Fes, 'Petit Taxis' are the most common way to get around, but ensure the meter is turned on or agree on a price before starting the journey.
