Why Choose Morocco For a Family-Friendly Desert Excursion?
The Sahara Desert is one of the most magical and mysterious places on Earth, offering a landscape unlike any other. For families seeking a unique vacation experience, a desert excursion in Morocco provides a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and unforgettable memories. Whether exploring the vast dunes, enjoying camel treks, or staying in luxurious desert camps, Morocco’s Sahara Desert offers a family-friendly environment where both adults and children can enjoy the beauty of the desert in comfort and safety. In this blog, we will guide you through the best family-friendly desert excursions in Morocco.
Why Choose Morocco for a Family Desert Adventure?
Morocco’s Sahara Desert is not just for seasoned travelers or thrill-seekers. It is an excellent choice for families because of its accessibility, cultural richness, and diverse accommodations. Families can experience the beauty of the desert without the need for extensive preparation or roughing it out. The tour operators in Morocco are well-prepared to provide tailored family excursions with safety in mind, from camel rides to luxury desert camps. Whether traveling with toddlers or teens, there is something for everyone.
Best Family-Friendly Desert Destinations in Morocco
Merzouga and Erg Chebbi
Merzouga, located at the edge of the Erg Chebbi dunes, is one of the most popular and accessible desert destinations for families. The towering dunes of Erg Chebbi are perfect for young explorers and offer breathtaking views during sunrise and sunset. In Merzouga, you can stay in family-friendly desert camps, many of which offer comfortable accommodations and activities suitable for children, such as camel rides, sandboarding, and cultural performances. The journey from Merzouga into the desert itself is part of the adventure, with camel rides taking you into the heart of the dunes, allowing your family to witness the serene desert landscape in a relaxed manner.
Zagora and the Draa Valley
Zagora, located in the southern part of Morocco, is another excellent desert destination for families. While the dunes here are smaller compared to Merzouga’s vast sand seas, Zagora still offers a fantastic desert experience with camel treks, Berber culture, and beautiful landscapes. The town of Zagora is known for its warm hospitality and its position along the Draa Valley, a scenic area that is perfect for family exploration. From Zagora, families can embark on short camel rides, visit local oases, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the desert in a comfortable and easygoing manner. The Draa Valley’s palm groves and ancient kasbahs add a cultural element to your trip, making it an enriching experience for young minds.
Erg Chigaga
For families seeking a more remote and off-the-beaten-path experience, Erg Chigaga is a great alternative to the more tourist-heavy areas like Merzouga. Located near the town of M’Hamid, Erg Chigaga is larger and less developed, offering a peaceful and secluded desert experience. Families who prefer adventure and a more rugged terrain will appreciate the long camel treks that lead into the dunes. The family-friendly desert camps in this region are often less crowded, offering an intimate experience with the desert while still providing the necessary amenities to make your stay comfortable. Despite its remoteness, Erg Chigaga can still be accessed in a 4×4 vehicle, making it an accessible desert location for families with children.
Camel Rides and Other Family Activities
One of the main activities that families enjoy in Morocco’s desert is camel trekking. Riding camels through the dunes is a unique experience that all ages can enjoy. The camels are gentle and used to tourists, making them safe for children to ride. Children as young as five or six years old can join in on the ride, with guides often walking alongside for additional safety.
In addition to camel rides, families can try sandboarding on the dunes, which is similar to snowboarding but on sand! Many desert camps also offer cultural activities such as drumming performances, storytelling sessions, and traditional Berber music, all of which are enjoyable for children and adults alike. Stargazing in the Sahara is another activity that families will treasure, with the clear, unpolluted skies offering spectacular views of the night sky.
Family-Friendly Desert Camps and Accommodations
When it comes to family-friendly accommodations, Morocco’s desert camps cater to all kinds of families, offering a range of options from basic to luxurious. Some camps are equipped with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and even heated areas, making them perfect for families with young children. Many camps also provide family suites, which are spacious and well-appointed, allowing families to stay together in comfort.
For families looking for a more adventurous experience, some camps offer traditional Berber tents where you can experience the authentic desert lifestyle, albeit with modern comforts like electricity and air conditioning. The food at these camps is also typically family-friendly, offering traditional Moroccan dishes such as couscous, tagine, and grilled meats, which children will enjoy.
Safety Tips for Family Desert Excursions
While the desert is a safe and enjoyable destination for families, it’s essential to keep a few safety tips in mind to ensure a smooth trip:
- Stay Hydrated: The desert can be extremely hot during the day, so always carry plenty of water for everyone.
- Sunscreen: Make sure to use sunscreen and wear protective clothing to avoid sunburns, especially for young children.
- Rest in the Shade: Plan your excursions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat of midday.
- Dress Comfortably: Light, breathable clothing and sturdy shoes are ideal for desert treks. A hat or scarf can help protect from the sun and sand.
- Choose Reputable Tour Operators: When booking your excursion, ensure you choose a reputable travel agency experienced in family tours to guarantee safety and a seamless experience.
Conclusion
A family desert excursion in Morocco offers an exciting opportunity for children and adults alike to connect with nature, explore a unique landscape, and immerse themselves in the rich culture of the desert. Whether you are looking for a relaxed camel ride through the dunes or an adventurous stay in a remote desert camp, Morocco provides the perfect setting for a family getaway. With proper planning, a family desert tour will be a highlight of your travel memories, filled with adventure, culture, and stunning landscapes that will leave everyone in awe.