Family-Friendly Adventures in Marrakech!

Majorelle Garden (Jardin Majorelle)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Majorelle Garden (Jardin Majorelle)

Morning Arrival:

Start your morning by heading to the vibrant and picturesque Majorelle Garden located in Marrakech. Easily accessible via taxi or a short walk from the city’s Medina, this iconic garden opens at 8:00 AM, making it perfect to beat the crowds and the heat.

Exploring the Garden:

Once you arrive, purchase your tickets at the entrance (combo tickets that include the Yves Saint Laurent Museum are also available for a full experience). As you enter, let the enchanting landscape captivate your family’s imagination. The garden, created over 40 years by French painter Jacques Majorelle, is famous for its unique cobalt blue accents, known as Majorelle Blue. Meander through pathways surrounded by exotic plants from five continents, bubbling streams, and tranquil pools filled with water lilies and lotus flowers.

Educational Fun:

For the kids, keep an eye out for the labels next to each plant species — a great way for them to learn about biodiversity. Don’t miss the garden’s resident turtles basking in the sun!

Visit the Berber Museum:

Located within the garden, the Berber Museum is a treasure trove of Moroccan indigenous culture. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Berber tribes through traditional costumes, textiles, and artifacts, making learning history exciting and interactive.

Lunch and Leisure:

After your tour, enjoy a relaxing lunch at the garden’s café, which offers a selection of Moroccan and French dishes that cater to both adults and children. Post-lunch, you could browse the boutique for unique souvenirs or simply enjoy a mint tea while soaking in the serene atmosphere.

Departure:

Plan to wrap up your visit by early afternoon, leaving the rest of the day free for other adventures in Marrakech or some well-deserved rest after your vibrant morning exploring Majorelle Garden.

This visit not only promises a visual delight and educational experience but also a peaceful retreat into nature, perfect for a family day out.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Bahia Palace (Palais Bahia)

Why Visit?

Welcome to your family-friendly adventure at the stunning Bahia Palace in Marrakech, a perfect blend of history, architecture, and enchantment, suitable for all ages!

### Morning Arrival

Start your day early to beat the crowds and the heat. Bahia Palace is accessible via taxi or a short walk from other medina attractions. Open from 9 am, it"s best to get there at opening time when it’s less crowded and cooler.

### Exploring Bahia Palace

Upon entering, immerse yourselves in the grandeur of this 19th-century palace, which translates to "brilliance". Originally built by Si Moussa, the grand vizier of the sultan, and later expanded by his son, Bou Ahmed, this palace showcases the opulence of their lives. The palace spans almost 8 hectares and is a masterpiece of Moroccan and Islamic architecture.

#### Highlights of the Visit

- Grand Courtyard: The marble courtyard is a spectacle of symmetry and the intricacy of Islamic art. It’s a great spot for family photos!

- Riads and Gardens: Explore the beautifully maintained gardens and serene riads (traditional Moroccan houses) which provide cool shade and peaceful spots to relax.

- Harem Quarters: Peek into the luxurious living quarters of the wives and concubines, beautifully decorated with stained glass and intricate woodwork.

### Engaging Activities for Kids

- Scavenger Hunt: Create a small list of items for your kids to find as they explore (e.g., a particular tile pattern, a type of plant in the garden, etc.).

- Sketching Time: Bring along sketch pads and let your children sketch their favorite patterns or architectural features.

### Lunch and Local Treats

Post-visit, head to one of the local eateries just outside the palace for some Moroccan delicacies such as couscous or tagine. Don’t miss trying some Moroccan mint tea!

### Wrap up your visit

End your visit by strolling the surrounding bazaar streets, where you can shop for souvenirs and experience the vibrant local culture.

Tips:

- Wear comfortable shoes as there"s a lot of walking.

- Bring water bottles, sun hats, and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected.

Enjoy your visit to Bahia Palace, a treasure trove of culture, history, and architectural beauty, ensuring a memorable experience for the whole family!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou (Ksar of Ait Benhaddou)

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating journey to the Kasbah of Aït Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the picturesque landscape of southern Morocco, near the town of Ouarzazate. This fortified village, known as Ksar, offers a glimpse into ancient Moroccan earthen clay architecture and has been the backdrop for numerous films, including "Gladiator" and "Game of Thrones."

### Morning Arrival

Start your day early by driving from Ouarzazate, which is roughly 30 minutes away. Arriving early helps you avoid the midday heat and crowds. You can rent a car or take a local taxi. As you approach, the stunning view of the Ksar, with its rich red mud-brick buildings set against the stark backdrop of the desert and mountains, will captivate you.

### Guided Tour of the Ksar

Upon arrival, consider hiring a local guide at the entrance, who will provide insights into the history and architecture of the site, enhancing your experience. As you wander through the narrow, winding lanes, you"ll explore the community areas, granaries, and beautifully preserved traditional houses. Guides can point out structures used in films, making the tour especially exciting for movie buffs.

### Midday Break

For lunch, enjoy a meal at a nearby restaurant offering views of the Ksar and traditional Moroccan cuisine, like tagine and couscous, giving you a taste of local flavors while you relax and soak in the environment.

### Afternoon Activities

Post-lunch, climb up to the top of the fortress. Although the walk is a bit steep, it"s manageable for most families and the panoramic view from above is breathtaking. It"s a great spot for memorable photos!

### Departure

Conclude your visit by late afternoon, allowing time to browse the small gift shops at the site"s entrance, where you can pick up unique local crafts as souvenirs.

This family-friendly itinerary ensures a memorable and educational experience at one of Morocco’s most iconic historical sites, filled with learning, adventure, and stunning views.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Jemaa el-Fna (Djemaa el-Fna)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary at Jemaa el-Fna, Marrakech

Morning Arrival: Start your day early at Jemaa el-Fna, the pulsating heart of Marrakech. Accessible by taxi from any part of the city, ensure you ask the driver to drop you at a nearby landmark like Koutoubia Mosque, as the square is pedestrian-only.

Stroll and Explore: Begin with a leisurely stroll around the square, taking in the vibrant displays of orange juice stalls and traditional water sellers in colorful costumes. It’s a fantastic chance to teach the kids about local culture and the importance of these age-old traditions.

Snack Break: Try some local treats like "chebakia" (sesame cookies) from the food stalls. They are not only delicious but also a fun way for the kids to engage with local cuisine.

Visit to the Souks: By mid-morning, venture into the surrounding souks. Each trade has its own area, such as the dyers" souk or the metalworkers" souk, which provides a colorful palette for photos and a sensory treasure hunt for the kids. Guide them to look for specific items like handmade lanterns or vibrant textiles.

Lunch: Around noon, settle down for some Moroccan tagine at one of the rooftop restaurants overlooking the square. This offers both a culinary delight and a panoramic view for a memorable family meal.

Afternoon Entertainment: Post-lunch, the square begins to fill with storytellers, acrobats, and musicians. These performances are perfect for keeping children entertained and offer a glimpse into Moroccan performing arts.

Early Evening: As the sun sets, Jemaa el-Fna transforms with its array of food stalls coming to life. It’s a perfect time to sample different Moroccan dishes in a lively, carnival-like atmosphere before taking a relaxed walk back to your accommodation.

Safety Tip: Keep close watch over belongings and children, as the square can get very crowded.

By following this itinerary, your family will experience the cultural richness and excitement of Jemaa el-Fna, creating lasting memories of your time in Marrakech.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Marrakech Medina (Medina of Marrakesh)

Why Visit?

Day 1: Discover the Heart of Marrakech

Morning: Jemaa el-Fnaa Square

Start your adventure in the pulsating Jemaa el-Fnaa, the main square of the Medina. It"s easily reachable by foot from many parts of the city or by taxi. Here, the kids will love watching snake charmers, acrobats, and storytellers. Don"t miss trying fresh orange juice from one of the many stalls.

Afternoon: Souks Exploring

From Jemaa el-Fnaa, venture north into the maze of souks. Each trade has its own area, such as Souk Smata for slippers or Souk Cherratine for leather. Let the family immerse themselves in the vibrant colors and smells of spices, textiles, and artisan crafts. If the maze becomes overwhelming, many small signs guide back to Jemaa el-Fnaa.

Evening: Koutoubia Mosque

As the day winds down, take a short walk west to the Koutoubia Mosque, the largest mosque in Marrakech, noted for its magnificent 77-meter minaret. Non-Muslims may not enter the mosque, but the surrounding gardens are perfect for a peaceful evening stroll.

Day 2: Culture and Relaxation

Morning: Bahia Palace

Head south from Jemaa el-Fnaa to the Bahia Palace, about a 15-minute walk. This 19th-century palace offers a glimpse into royal life with its intricate marquetry and stucco work. The beautiful gardens are a hit with kids who need a little space to run around.

Afternoon: Saadian Tombs

Only a 10-minute walk from Bahia Palace, find the Saadian Tombs, a royal necropolis rich in history and architectural beauty. The restoration work unveiled the lavish decoration that tells tales of the wealth of Saadian sultans.

Evening: Culinary Delights and Entertainment at Jemaa el-Fnaa

Return to Jemaa el-Fnaa for dinner. As night falls, the square transforms into a food lover"s paradise with countless stalls serving traditional Moroccan dishes like tagine and couscous. Enjoy dinner with a side of cultural performances that continue into the night.

This two-day itinerary offers a balanced blend of cultural immersion and engaging activities that will delight every family member while exploring the historic Medina of Marrakesh.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.