Vacationing as a family is one of the best ways to bond with your kids and create truly unforgettable memories. So when you feel like you’re ready to let your little ones dip their toes into the huge continent that is Africa, Morocco is the perfect destination. Family-friendly hotels in Marrakech can be hard to find as most hotels and riads often cater to adults or only accept children 12 and above.
So, finding an option of where to stay in Marrakech with kids isn’t always easy.
While there are many hotels as well it can seem like you’re missing out having come all the way to Morocco and then walking into a hotel that could be anywhere in the world. But there are pros and cons to all types of accommodation.
Here are four things to keep in mind when you’re choosing where to stay with kids in Marrakech.
- What age are your children? Younger children may not do as well in a riad setting. There is limited room to play and most areas are not child-proof. Riads are meant to be an area to relax for all guests and in many ways are laid out more like a house than a hotel. You’ll be sharing that space with everyone else who is staying.
- What time of year is it? In the middle of summer you will want an air conditioner. In the middle of winter you’ll want heating. This is true especially if you have children. Check into what is available when you are looking at places to stay. Very few places in Morocco have central heat. In many riads portable heating units (electric or gas) are used. This may not be ideal if you have very young children.
- What amenities do you need/want? Some riads are available to rent the entire space through services like apartment rentals this would give you access to a kitchen and several rooms to spread out and relax. If you don’t want to deal with food an all-inclusive hotel might be a great fit. If you want a bed and breakfast type space a riad might work great. There are even hostels to consider!
- Where do you want to stay? Most riads are in the medina, the older part of the city. There’s no room to play outside of the riad and playing inside might be frowned on. But you’re in the middle of the action. Hotels and villas tend to be outside of the city and offer a lot more space but you have to factor in transportation to the city if you want to go.
If you’re planning a family trip, here are a few suggestions of best hotels in Marrakech for families to help get you started. Before booking make sure to double-check with the property about the age of your children.
Family-Friendly Riads to Consider
Riad Zehar
You know what they say: when in Rome, do as the Romans do. So if that’s your travel style, then Riad Zehar is as authentically Moroccan as it gets. Located in a former 18th-century mansion, the Riad has everything you need to live and breathe Moroccan culture. Taste some delicious traditional Moroccan dishes in the riad’s restaurant or learn to make your own with a cooking class.
Riad Reves D’Orient
If you’re looking for one of the best riads in Marrakech for families, check out Riad Reves D’Orient. Located right in the heart of the Marrakech medina, this hotel somehow manages to be an oasis of tranquility away from the hectic city life.
That’s probably because it offers some of the best spa treatments in the city and features a jacuzzi on its rooftop terrace (which, has some gorgeous panoramic views of the city too). For families, the best part of it all is that the lux riad has just about everything you need from large connecting suites to fun activities and even around-the-clock service at the front desk.
Riad Mur Akush
This is one of our favorite riads in Marrakech. It’s really a great spot for families of all types to call home during their time in Marrakech. The location is also close to parking and an easy taxi drop off if you have anyone who may not be able to walk far distances. The rooms are each individually decorated with en suite bathrooms and a multi-tiered rooftop perfect for al fresco dining.
Kenzi Club Agdal Medina
Just outside the old part of the city, Kenzi Club Agdal is an all-inclusive option for vacationing families. It offers heated swimming pools so the kids can swim any time you visit, waterslides and is all-inclusive so you don’t have to worry about finding something they’ll eat – chances are the hotel will have it covered. A bowling alley, tennis courts, soccer/football pitches, and kids clubs for all ages are also available. When you want to visit the city, it’s just a short ride away — a great option for a Marrakech family holiday.
Riad Laila
Nestled in a quiet neighborhood near the Majorelle Gardens, Riad Laila is perfect for families looking for a quiet getaway in Marrakech. Plus, the riad’s outdoor swimming pool and a rooftop terrace will really come in handy on those hot summer days. This riad is not in the central medina making it a good choice for families who would rather to have a bit of distance from the hustle and bustle.
Eden Andalou Aquapark and Spa
This hotel isn’t located in the medina but is a great option for families with kids – especially if visiting during warmer months. The hotel provides shuttles to the city center throughout the day so you can have the best of both worlds. There is an on-site waterpark and swimming pools. The food is all inclusive and there is entertainment throughout the day.
Riad Zineb
Located in the heart of the medina, Riad Zineb is one of the best hotels for families in Marrakech if you want to be in the middle of the action. You’ll reach Djemaa el Fna Square in a few short minutes and from there you’ll have easy access to Marrakech’s museums, monuments and souks.
If you want to get out of town, set up a day trip or longer guided tour of the Atlas Mountains, Morocco’s Atlantic Coast and the Sahara dunes.
Riad Africa
Not many hotels or riads pride themselves on being family-friendly but Riad Africa does! As one of the best family hotels in Marrakech, they have a variety of rooms (triples/quads/connecting rooms and suites) that will suit any and all family configurations. They also have a large pool so that kids can enjoy swimming right on site. Don’t worry about packing extras they have baby cots, highchairs, and car seats available to use as well.
Dar Ayniwen Villa Hotel Marrakech
Families looking for a little luxury and a lot of privacy will love the suites at Dar Aynywen Villa. Located in lush gardens in Marrakech’s Palm Grove, the villa features 5 private air-conditioned suites beautifully decorated in traditional Moroccan style. It also offers a number of handy services like an airport pickup and a free shuttle bus to the city center. Make note, this hotel is not in central Marrakech, budget 20-30 minutes to arrive in the center.
Riad Itrane
“Itrane” literally translates to “Star” from the Berber language, and that’s exactly what this riad will make you feel like. With rooms offering stunning views of the Atlas Mountains, a swimming pool, several sun terraces with sunbeds and even a massage room and hammam available onsite, there’s nothing you’ll need in Marrakech that you won’t find at Riad Itrane.
Family-Friendly Hotels in Other Parts of Morocco
Check out these guides with information on family-friendly places to stay in Fez, Tangier, and Essaouira!
Tanja
Saturday 23rd of November 2019
Hi, I consider going to Marrakech with my 7-year old twins in the beginning of February. Having read your posts I have a lot of ideas of what to do. Thank you 😊
But I still don’t know where we should stay. I consider Riad Africa because of the heated pool but some of the reviews on booking.com say that it’s cold in winter. Is it possible to find a - not too expensive - place that isn’t too cold? Or do I just have to bring warm/wool clothes?
Amanda Mouttaki
Saturday 23rd of November 2019
February is a kind of a weird time weather wise - I don't know if you'll really find anywhere in Morocco that will be super warm when it comes to swimming. It's warm in the sun most of the time but yea you just need to be prepared for layers. Nights can get quite cold. Wool may be a bit too much. February temps can range from 8C - 20C in Marrakech day vs. night and whether it rains or not.
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