Is Marrakech Safe for Families? What We Learned Travelling with Kids
- Bec Luck-Baker
- Jul 14
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 5
When we first told people we were heading to Marrakech with our child, we were met with a mix of excitement and raised eyebrows. "Is it safe for kids?" they’d ask. After multiple trips with our son Jax, we can confidently say: YES, Marrakech is incredibly family-friendly and safe, if you know what to expect and come prepared.
Our Honest Experience Travelling Marrakech with a Child
We’ve travelled to Marrakech several times as a family, and each time we’ve felt completely safe. In fact, it’s one of the most welcoming destinations we’ve experienced with Jax. The hustle and bustle of the medina might look chaotic at first glance, but underneath it all is a culture deeply rooted in community and hospitality.
Locals have gone out of their way to welcome Jax, shaking his hand, ruffling his hair, or slipping him a small wooden camel or a sweet without ever expecting anything in return. The genuine kindness towards children is one of the reasons we keep coming back. There’s a warmth here that’s hard to describe until you experience it for yourself.
Of course, like any big city (especially one with a busy medina), there are things to be aware of. But nothing that would put us off returning again and again.
What to Expect as a Family in Marrakech
The sensory overload is real, colourful souks, the calls to prayer, street performers, the smell of spices, and the snake charmers in Jemaa el-Fnaa. For kids, it’s a fascinating adventure playground. For parents, it can be intense but absolutely manageable.
Transport is generally reliable, accommodations (especially riads) often go above and beyond for families, and it’s easy to find child-friendly food options (hello, tagine and fresh bread!).
Yes, the medina is busy. Yes, the scooters whizzing past take some getting used to. But honestly, with a few common sense precautions, it’s no more overwhelming than any other major travel destination.
10 Family Safety Tips for Marrakech
Stay Inside the Medina (or Nearby) – Choose a riad within the medina or just outside it to make exploring easier and avoid long walks in the heat.
Use a Child Harness or Hold Hands – The medina is maze-like with uneven paving and occasional fast-moving scooters. Keep younger kids close.
Book Airport Transfers in Advance – Taxis can be overwhelming on arrival. Booking a transfer ahead makes that first impression calmer and safer or take the local bus - this is our favourite option as it is also the cheapest.
Watch for Street Performers – While fun to watch, most expect a tip if you take photos. Be mindful of this when kids get curious. The are also very cruel to the animals, please try and avoid them.
Bring Earplugs for Lighter Sleepers – Call to prayer is beautiful but early. Riads have thin walls. Be prepared.
Always Have Bottled Water – Tap water isn’t safe to drink. Stay hydrated and stock up at local shops.
Learn a Few Phrases – A few words in French or Arabic go a long way, especially when kids are involved.
Stick to Busy Areas at Night – We’ve felt safe walking around after dark, but staying where there are other people is always best.
Trust Your Riads – Riads often offer trusted local guides or can arrange excursions. Use their knowledge.
Teach Your Kids to Say No Politely – Locals love kids, but sometimes it’s okay to gently decline offers, photos, or attention if it’s too much.
Final Thoughts: Should You Take Your Kids to Marrakech?
Absolutely. Marrakech is a destination that stimulates all the senses and teaches kids (and adults) about different ways of life. It’s exciting, beautiful, safe, and incredibly rewarding for families who are up for an adventure.
While you may need to plan slightly differently than you would for a beach break or a typical European city, the payoff is huge. From exploring palaces and gardens to tasting fresh mint tea in hidden courtyards, Marrakech is a magical experience, made even more special when shared as a family.
We’ll be back again soon, no doubt with Jax running ahead through the souks, waving at the shopkeepers who now know his name.
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