Essaouira with kids: 7 summer experiences to enjoy as a family

A journey children will love too

Visiting Morocco with kids is becoming more and more popular. But not all destinations are child-friendly. Essaouira, with its mild climate, diverse nature, and welcoming culture, is the ideal place to offer children a unique experience—stress-free and far from the rush of mass tourism.

While the medina charms adults, it’s outside the city walls that the most exciting family-friendly activities are found.

What to do in Essaouira with children? Here are 7 experiences you shouldn't miss:

1. Camel rides through the dunes

Camels—or rather, dromedaries—are among the most iconic symbols of Morocco. But for children, they’re much more than a postcard image: they’re gentle giants ready for adventure. Rides take place in total safety, along sandy paths or the beach, always with expert guides.
Recommended age: 4 and up
Ideal duration: 1 hour

2. Beginner-friendly horseback rides

You don’t need years of riding experience to get in the saddle. Some horseback excursions near Essaouira are specially designed for children and beginners. The horses are gentle and well-trained, and the route is adapted to the rider’s age and level.
A perfect adventure for young explorers.

3. Mini quad adventure (for parents & kids)

For older kids accompanied by a parent, quad tours across dunes and coastal trails are a thrilling option. It’s one of the most popular activities among families—fun, scenic, and safe when led by professionals using certified vehicles.

4. Afternoon at the beach (with wind, kites, and freedom)

Essaouira is home to one of the widest and most open beaches in Morocco. It’s a paradise for kids: they can run freely, play in the sand, fly kites, or splash safely in the shallow water. The beach is vast, the breeze keeps things cool even in summer, and the occasional camel or horse strolling by adds a touch of magic.

5. Birdwatching and nature walks among the dunes

Few know that Essaouira is also a stopover for many species of migratory birds. Walking through the dunes or near the lagoons with children is a wonderful introduction to local nature: spotting birds, collecting seashells, and listening to the sounds of the wind.
A peaceful and fascinating moment of discovery.

6. Moroccan cuisine… made kid-friendly

Tajine, couscous, oven-baked bread—Moroccan flavors can also be delicate and suitable for children. Some guesthouses or local families organize small cooking workshops for kids, helping them explore ingredients, aromas, and the simple rituals of Moroccan food culture.

7. Visiting a Berber village in an authentic way

Day trips to villages in the hinterland offer a chance for children to discover how life unfolds outside the city—without ever getting bored. The villages are welcoming, often home to families with children, and time is measured by tea, chickens, and play.

Why choose Essaouira for a family trip?

Essaouira is one of those rare destinations that combines authenticity and safety. It’s not chaotic, it’s not built around tourism, but it’s perfectly suited for families seeking genuine experiences. Distances are short, routes are easy to follow, and local guides are always on hand to offer support.

Here, every activity becomes a story to tell when you return home.

A journey to remember

The experiences we have as children are the ones we carry with us for life. And a trip to Morocco—if lived the right way—can become a family memory to cherish forever.

Ranch de Diabat, just outside Essaouira, organizes year-round experiences designed for both children and adults: camel or horseback rides, dune and forest tours, workshops, and moments of discovery in nature.

Want to create a tailor-made itinerary for your family?
Write to us—we’ll plan it together.