Family-Friendly Morocco: Tangier to Marrakesh via Fes & Chefchaouen - 10 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Tangier

Welcome to Tangier! Your driver and guide will collect you from the airport and transfer you to your accommodation in the city's historic medina (old town). Enjoy a welcome tea at your riad (traditional Moroccan townhouse) and settle in. Once you and your kids have had some time to rest and settle in after the journey, head out into the city with a local guide for some family-friendly exploration.

Start in the heart of the medina, wandering through the labyrinth of commercial and residential alleyways. Check out Petit Socco Square, known for its buzzy markets, craft shops, and cafés. This is a great place to grab a bite to eat, people watch, and even catch a snake charmer performance. For an incredible view of the city and the Bay of Tangier, visit the cannons at Faro Square. Then make your way down to the beach to end your first day in Morocco in style—with camel rides for the whole family.

Day 2: Explore the Hercules Caves or Day Trip to Asilah

Today you and your family will explore a natural wonder with a fascinating mythological history sure to capture young imaginations. On the Moroccan coast, just west of Tangier, lies one of Morocco's most famous natural sites: the Caves of Hercules. Mythology has it that Hercules retired here once he'd finished all of his adventures, and it was here that the cyclops Polyphemus, son of Poseidon, was said to have lived. Curious youngsters will enjoy discovering the many corridors and underground caverns with their windows looking out over the ocean—where you can stop for a refreshing dip after exploring. 

For something farther afield, opt for a day trip to Asilah instead. Around 28 miles (45 km) south of Tangier, you'll find this charming walled city, renowned for its pristine beaches and interesting Portuguese history. Browse the craft shops and pick up some souvenirs for the whole family. If you're traveling in the spring, the city comes alive with various festivals and cultural moussems (seasonal or holiday celebrations), which are fun to watch and take part in. Kids might also like to ride in one of the city's distinctively decorated horses and carriages—the perfect way to see the sights while staying in the shade!

Day 3: Transfer to Chefchaouen, Tour the Blue City

Say goodbye to Tangier this morning as you travel about 2.5 hours south and inland to Chefchaouen. Along the way, see the coast, the flat plains, and green hills transform into the rugged Rif mountains. Perched beneath these jagged peaks is the famous city of Chefchaouen, whose historic buildings and lanes are washed in striking shades of blue. Founded in 1471 as a stronghold in the fight against the Portuguese, it's considered a holy town, with eight mosques and several zaouias (Sufi institutions) and marabouts (religious leaders). 

After settling into your accommodation, head out to explore "Chaoeun," as the locals call it. Twist through the city's winding maze of picturesque alleys, a beautiful blend of Moroccan and Andalusian styles with red-tiled roofs, blue buildings ranging from sky to azure, and narrow lanes that converge on Plaza Uta el-Hammam and its restored kasbah (fortress). Because of all the steps, no cars or motorbikes drive here, so your kids can safely walk and run freely through the streets. Browse the souks or head to the Grand Mosque and Kasbah, where you can admire the outside and tour the gardens and museums.

Day 4: Transfer to Fes via the Roman Ruins of Volubilis & Meknes

Leave colorful Chefchaouen today and travel approximately five hours to Fes, the oldest of Morocco's four Imperial cities. After leaving the Rif mountains behind, your first stop is Volubilis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site containing Morocco's best-preserved Roman ruins. This town was one of the most remote parts of the Roman Empire, with the Romans ruling for about 200 years and leaving in 285 CE. Kids with an interest in ancient history will enjoy wandering through the massive complex, exploring large merchant homes with visible heating systems, temples, and colorful mosaics.

Continue to Meknes, the imperial city of Sultan Moulay Ismail. Under his reign (1672–1727 CE), Meknes grew from a small town to a magnificent capital. Stroll through the compact medina, which is less busy and more laid back than in some other cities. Visit the 14th-century Bou Inania Madrasa and the impressive 19th-century palace of Dar Jamaï, now a museum. In the Ville Impériale area, explore gardens, castles, the impressive Bab al-Mansour Gate, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the Royal Stables.

Before reaching your accommodation in Fes, drive up to the Marinid Tombs, from where there are lovely views of the old city, then settle into your riad accommodation and enjoy a relaxed family dinner.

Day 5: Fes Family Tour, Traditional Henna Party

Get to know Fes today on a family-friendly tour that will take you through the heart of this artistic and authentic city. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the medina has remained almost intact since its creation in the eighth century. Your kids will love following your guide down narrow alleyways and onto rooftops to see the tanneries, craftspeople at work, and all the wonderful workings of the medina. Look out for hammams, bread ovens, craft workshops, mosques, religious schools (madrasas), caravanserai, and mausoleums (zaouia). 

Later in the day, after the family has had a chance to rest, join a traditional henna party. The tradition of mehndi, or henna tattoos, goes back thousands of years. Moroccan women decorate their hands, arms, and feet to celebrate special occasions like weddings. Learn more about the art and craft of mehndi during a workshop. Under the guidance of an instructor, you and your kids will learn how to hold a henna cone and practice drawing the designs on paper, then eventually on your hands, arms, or feet. Your beautiful decorations will last a week or two and are the perfect souvenir of your Moroccan adventure. 

Day 6: Mosaic Workshop, Dinner with a Local Family

Creative kids (and parents) will get the chance to express themselves during today's fun, hands-on workshop. See how mosaics are made the traditional way, then cut tiles into small pieces before assembling them into beautiful zellige mosaics inspired by the colors and patterns of the medina. Kids, young and old, will love seeing the results of their own handiwork and having a special keepsake to take home with them.

Later on, get ready for a fun evening as your family joins a local Moroccan family in their home for a meal. Morocco sits at the geographical and cultural crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, creating a mix of traditions and tastes fully expressed in the local gastronomy. And while you can find many restaurants serving beloved dishes and recipes, the best food is often found in family homes. Join a local family for dinner in the medina, a memorable experience in which you'll learn about Moroccan culinary history and chat with your hosts. 

Day 7: Transfer to Marrakesh

Today you'll transfer from Fes to the bustling city of Marrakesh, a drive of around five hours. After arriving and settling into your riad, feel free to venture out into the city to stretch your legs and dive right into the sights. Enjoy a relaxing stroll in the gardens near the stunning Koutoubia Mosque, then head to the lively Jemaa el-Fna square as the sun starts to set. Here, you'll find musicians, performers, and food stalls: a perfect recipe for family fun. Wander the main square (an important trading bazaar for many centuries) or watch the show from above at a quieter café situated over the plaza.

Day 8: Kid-Friendly Tour of Marrakesh, Private Food Tour

Keep your kids interested and energized today with a kid-friendly sightseeing tour. A local guide will lead you on a journey that includes fun games, a treasure hunt, and outdoor activities sure to spark kids' imaginations. Learn about local traditions, admire the beautiful architecture of the historic Ben Youssef Madrasa, and walk in an open-air souk. 

After working up an appetite with this morning's adventures, feed hungry youngsters while broadening their palate with a gastronomy tour through the city's medina. With cozy alleyways and vibrant squares, bustling Marrakesh is the perfect city to get lost in as you follow your nose and taste buds from one snack to the next. Sample 10 traditional delicacies, from sweets to an authentic savory tajine. Along the way, learn about the country's essential ingredients, cooking techniques, and culinary culture. Your kids might find a new favorite Moroccan dish, while you can be inspired for future family meals at home.

Day 9: Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride, Visit Anima Garden

Get the kids out of bed early today for a hot air balloon ride above Marrakesh and the surrounding landscapes. Adventurous children will love the thrill of soaring over the city, while adults can savor watching the sunrise over the desert and mountains. The pastel colors, soft light, and crisp early morning air create a tranquil experience that provides a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Once the sun's up, you'll enjoy a tasty Moroccan breakfast in the air before landing.

Later, make a trip to Austrian artist André Heller's Anima Garden, around 18 miles (30 km) southwest of Marrakesh. The whole family will feel like they've entered another world where art and nature blend in a botanical wonderland. The greenery of the artistic botanical garden in the otherwise barren landscape around Marrakesh is like an oasis. Kids will enjoy exploring and having a run around the large landscaped grounds and finding the many hidden treasures and quirky highlights throughout.

Day 10: Depart Marrakesh

It's time to say goodbye to Morocco today. Depending on the time of your flight, you may have time to take one last stroll around Marrakesh's medina and souks, shopping for souvenirs and snacks. At the appropriate time, you'll be transferred to the airport for your onward journey. Bon voyage!

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