Amazing African adventures are waiting for you in Morocco. With a rich history and a fascinating blend of cultures to learn about, as well as exciting camel rides and staying in a desert encampment, there is so much to explore here with your family. And with our local guides, you’ll get to see the best of it together, on foot and at eye level.
Imagine walking through the bustling souks (markets), visiting the imperial cities of Marrakech and Fes, and trying flavorful new cuisine along the way. You may also be surprised to know that the climate in Morocco is moderate, as it is the coolest and most welcoming of the African nations for visitors from around the world. Pack your sense of adventure (and get your tastebuds ready for some new spices) when you head to Morocco with your family. Whether you’re 8, 18, 48, or 80, you’ll enjoy immersing yourself in this enchanting destination. Read on for the inside scoop on the best things to see and do in order to make the best Moroccan memories together.
Immerse Yourself in Moroccan Culture
Morocco’s culture is vibrant and diverse, blending Arab, Berber, and European influences. You’ll see this throughout your time here in this unique country’s traditions, architecture, music, and cuisine. As you set out together with your expert local guide to explore ancient medinas (walled cities) and visit traditional markets (souks), you’ll get to experience warm Moroccan hospitality firsthand. You’ll meet locals who are eager to engage with your family, including skilled artisans who proudly display their homemade wares for you to browse along the way. Get to know them and their traditional techniques, as your guide helps you translate and barter for one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
On tour, you’ll explore the Berber hamlet of Tamzenddirt, walking along a hillside path until you arrive at the village of Anins. Here you’ll get the ‘only with Classic Journeys‘ opportunity to visit a countryside school and meet with locals. Watch as your kids make authentic connections with these school children and their teachers and discuss how things are similar to their own classrooms back home. This special visit not only creates meaningful connections, but serves as a heartwarming reminder that we are all more alike than we are different.
Your family will also get the unforgettable opportunity to head into the Sahara on a leisurely camel ride as you make your way to a Berber encampment in the desert. Imagine taking in the incredible views across the vast dunes and experiencing the magic of the desert landscape. Upon arrival, learn first-hand about their nomadic way of life, and spend a night in an upscale Berber encampment with all of the amenities you’ll need. You’ll never forget stargazing (see who can count the most!) and enjoying their traditional music and dance performances around a campfire together. For the ultimate family photo, wake up early together for the stunning sunrise as it peeks over the golden sand dunes.
Experience Morocco’s Natural Beauty
With its diverse natural landscapes, Morocco offers a range of experiences that cater to every generation. From walks in peaceful forests to camel rides in vast deserts and scenic drives through majestic mountains, there is no shortage of natural beauty to appreciate together. Near Fes, you’ll explore the captivating cedar forests of the Middle Atlas Mountains, keeping an eye out for the native Barbary macaque monkeys that inhabit the area. You’re also likely to witness locals carrying wood on their donkeys, as you make your way on footpaths through apple orchards and olive groves.
Buckle up for a scenic drive along the mountainous edge of the desert to Tineghir, where a morning walk leads past fields of alfalfa, henna, barley, and mint in the shade of palm and almond trees. The sights and smells are unforgettable. Get your camera ready for some of the most spectacular scenery and views in Africa as you journey through the Middle Atlas where the scenery shifts to tall peaks and deep gorges. Can you spot the medieval kasbahs (fortresses) and clay villages along the way? Your guide will also drive you all across the canyons of the Ziz River between Midelt and Errachidia, which offers the opportunity to enjoy the stunning variety of the Moroccan countryside. With its changing landscapes and unique backdrops, you’ll all discover that Morocco is so much more than its famed deserts.
Explore Fes & Marrakesh
Your Moroccan walking adventures begin in Fes, a fascinating ancient walled city, as you explore its famed medina on foot and at eye level. Your expert local guide will lead you through the labyrinthine streets and alleys, where you’ll encounter ancient mosques, historical monuments, bustling souks (markets), and traditional craftsmen practicing their trades. As you stroll through the vibrant atmosphere of this UNESCO-listed site, you’ll feel as if you’ve all stepped back in time as you witness the intricate craftsmanship of traditional artisans. Can you believe that when you visit a local tannery, the leather created and dyed there is still the same process as centuries before?
You can’t miss Marrakesh, a magical city and the fourth of Morocco’s imperial cities. You’ll learn how the world’s most famous scholars and philosophers lived here in the Middle Ages and you don’t have to be a history buff to get excited about the fascinating heritage all around you. Hop on board for a horse and carriage ride around the town before making your way to Djemaa el-Fna Square. Have you ever seen a snake charmer? Well, today is the day as you explore this lively heart of Marrakesh. Get your camera ready as you encounter everyone from monkey tamers to magicians and marvel at the exciting sights and sounds all around you… it’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Watch as your kids (and grandkids) are captivated by the unusually fun entertainment.
Morocco’s ‘Can’t Miss’ Cuisine
Moroccan cuisine is a treat for the taste buds! With its flavorful spices and unique dishes, it caters to a wide range of palates. Dining together provides an excellent opportunity for everyone to savor the delightful dishes, from savory couscous and tagines to delectable pastillas and traditional mint tea. Sitting down (sometimes on a cushioned floor) to a meal together is an integral part of Moroccan culture and will create lasting memories together. Sip and share bites as you discuss which recipes you’ll try to re-create back home.
Couscous is a staple in Moroccan cuisine and is typically served with various vegetables, meats, and flavorful sauces. It’s a dish that can be modified for all diets, such as vegetable couscous, chicken couscous, or lamb couscous, to savor the distinct flavors and textures. Kids will especially love the traditional practice of using their hands to enjoy this meal! Tagine is another iconic Moroccan dish that you must try during your trip, referring to both the cooking vessel (a cone-shaped clay pot) and the slow-cooked stew made inside it. Tagines can be prepared with a variety of ingredients, including chicken, lamb, beef, fish, or vegetables, combined with spices, herbs, and dried fruits… and the aroma is so appetizing.
Time for dessert! Pastilla, also known as “Jawhara” is a unique and flavorsome Moroccan pastry popular with tourists and locals alike. Typically consisting of layers of thin fried pastry filled with cream, orange blossom water, and toasted almond slices, this delightful treat is indulgent and delicious to savor together after dinner.
On tour, you’ll also get invited into a friend’s farm to share some tea, locally-grown almonds, and delicious homemade pastries. Lunch is served with fresh goat cheese as you break bread together. Dining together is often the way to truly get to know a culture and its citizens. Whether you are sipping mint tea (which is offered as a sign of a host’s hospitality) or learning about treasured family recipes, immersing yourself in Morocco’s culinary heritage allows you all to slow down and savor it all together. “B’ssaha!” (that’s how you say cheers!)
Ready to explore Morocco with your family? Join us on our multigenerational walking tour for memorable adventures for all ages!
