10 Family-Friendly Activities to Enjoy in and Around Marrakech
By Barbara Podbial on 27th February, 2024
Prepare for an unforgettable family experience, in this country filled with cultural wonders, vibrant colours, and enchanting scents. This ancient city in Morocco and its surrounding landscape offers a plethora of exciting activities for families to enjoy together.
Whether you’re exploring bustling medinas, immersing yourselves in local traditions, or embarking on thrilling adventures, Marrakech has something to offer everyone!
Here are our top 10 favourite things that are super fun for all the family!
10 Family-Friendly Activities to Enjoy in and Around Marrakech
1. Moroccan Cooking Class and Market Trip
Dive into the essence of Morocco through a Moroccan market trip and its cuisine – the epitome of life and family gatherings! Immerse your family in the culinary delights of Morocco with a family and children’s cooking class. Learn the secrets of traditional Moroccan cuisine together, from preparing aromatic tagines to mastering the art of traditional mint tea.
2. Anima Garden – Sculpture Garden
An incredible creation not far from Marrakech. Nestled beneath the majestic Atlas Mountains, along the scenic road to Ourika, this outdoor oasis is nothing short of a magnificent work of art. As you pass through its pathways, prepare to be captivated by the extraordinary treasures that are around every corner! You will be in awe of the hidden statues and paintings cleverly concealed amongst fragrant rose bushes. Jardin Anima has more than artistic wonders to offer. As you drift, occasional bursts of cool mist greet you, rejuvenating your senses and providing a refreshing respite from the warmth of the sun. It’s a truly immersive experience, where nature, creativity, and serenity intertwine. It is the ideal space for children to roam freely, this interactive space in nature being the perfect playground away from the metropolis. !
3. Camel Trek and Overnight in Agafay Desert – Lawrence of Arabia Style
No trip to Morocco is complete without a camel trek while wearing a turban, padding gently through the Agafay Desert outside Marrakech. The rhythmic flow of the camel caravan will take your imagination back to the historical times of the trade routes. An absolute thrill for children and adults to ride these incredible animals. The only mammal with elbows in its hind legs!
4. Oasiria Water Park
Cool off from the Marrakech heat and spend a fun-filled day at the beautiful Oasiria Water Park and Gardens. Shoot down giant-themed slides, meander on lazy floating flower rivers, and ride the surf in a wave pool, this family-friendly attraction offers hours of entertainment for children of all ages (and adults too!) It has several delicious restaurants to choose from – but remember, this is a waterpark, so food isn’t the focus. Fleewinter Tip: you can stay at Oasis Lodges and have direct access to Oasiria Water Park. Ideal for the summer months.
5. Terres D’Amanar Mountain Park
Dare to take to new heights at Terres D’Amanar Adventure Park, located in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains near Marrakech. This expansive park offers a wide range of thrilling activities, such as zip-lining, tree-top rope courses, rock climbing, mountain biking, and horse riding trails. Let your kids unleash their inner monkeys (who are we fooling, all kids are monkeys!) while enjoying stunning natural surroundings. Perfect for a day trip to inhale the mountain air and have a delicious lunch in totally different surroundings.
6. Quad Biking Adventure in the Palm Oasis
For absolutely everyone, Mum, Dad, Grandpa, Grandma, and Kiddos, a thrilling quad biking adventure in the Palmeraie is a must-do activity! Embark on an exhilarating ride through the rugged terrains of the outskirts of Marrakech, offering a taste of adventure and adrenaline. Guided tours ensure it’s a safe activity to do, and the whole family will enjoy the adrenaline of off-roading in a beautiful and natural setting.
7. Trek in the Atlas Mountains
There is nothing like a simple family adventure exploring the stunning Atlas Mountains located just outside Marrakech. Mount Shanks’ Pony and enjoy guided hikes suitable for all skill levels, allowing you to immerse yourselves in the breathtaking natural beauty of Morocco. Discover picturesque valleys, meet friendly Berber communities, enjoy the local cuisine and witness breathtaking waterfalls on your way. The Atlas Mountains offer a unique opportunity for families to bond, conquer new challenges, and create unforgettable memories!
8. Side-Car Tours
Add a touch of vintage charm to your family holiday with a side-car tour around Marrakech and beyond. Hop into a retro side car and take off on a riotously fun guided tour of the city’s highlights If you’re feeling like Lawrence of the sidecar, venture further afield to the Agafay Desert. This unique mode of transportation will definitely captivate the imagination of children and adults alike!
9. Mule and Donkey Rescue Centre
The Jarjeer Mule and Donkey Refuge lies in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains near Marrakech. It looks after donkeys who have retired from working and is also an orphanage and care centre for working equines. The centre was established by Susan Machin and Charles Hantom in 2009 when they retired to Morocco. It’s a happy place for the animals and supports the local community. Visits are very important to the project, and everyone is welcome. Go and cuddle a Moroccan Eeyore!
10. Wakeboarding at Waky Marrakech
Discover the first cable park in Morocco! Waky Marrakech is a water ski lift installed on an artificial lake located on the edge of the Ourika in the Resort Les Jardins de l’Atlas. The lake was specially designed for water skiing and wakeboarding and managed by quadruple-world champion Francis Koot. Perfect for older kids and teens!
Whatever your family enjoys, there’ll be something in Morocco that fits the bill. Plus, with great food, beautiful weather, amazing landscapes and friendly people, you’ll be discovering a whole new destination while your family spends precious time together.
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