Marrakesh Travel Forum

Hi.

My Family and I are going on a trip to Marrakech and Essaouria (I never retain the correct spelling for that) for just under 3 weeks, at the start of July. We shall have a 5 year old with us and are looking for some ideas for things to do during the day, especially in Marrakech, to keep the wee one occupied. It is our first time in Morocco. We are also interested in bringang back some traditional Moroccon/Arab perfumes and incense, and also some silver jewelery. Any pointers,as what and where these productscan be found, would be much appreciated. What would be the best way to travel around with a youngster? In Marrakech we are staying in a village outside the city and in Essaouria we are staying in the Medina. Thanx for your help.

I am not sure you will need to hire a car, unless you want to get off the beaten track or visit many places in a short time. Petite taxi's take 3 people and are very economical for short journeys in and around Marrakech. Be sure they use the meter, or ask the price before you get in. Ask in your hotel what the normal fare is, then you will have an idea what you should pay.
Once in Essaouira you will not need transport. Everything is within walking distance. From the Medina the beach is only a 5 minute stroll. Essaouira has a delightful jewellery souk where you will find some excellent Berber jewellery. However you will also find jewellery made in India, Thailand & Bali that is passed off as Moroccan and silver that is not. Moroccan silver jewellery is not hallmarked and rarely stamped.
If you need more info on Essaouira, I live here so always happy to help.
Sue

Although I did drive a lot on other countries I also wouldn't recommend driving in the medina of Marrakesh. Indeed use the 'petit taxis'; we paid for almost every ride 10 Dirhams.

Marrakesh has also a jeweller’s souk, the 'Sagha', close to the Badia Palace. Just asked your hotel for directions.

happy travels
Jaap

Sorry: most of the trips will cost about 20 Dirham.

Well Marrakceh is such a beautiful city full with loy an d fun.
It's so hot in july but good weather ..dry..just put a hat on your head to protect yourself from the heat.Do not worry about your 5 old year son.He will love the city.
Try to get a car with A/C .
If you need more tips,i will be happy to help.

Cheers,
Rachid_qotaibah2002@yahoo.fr

Hi, for your 5 year old, some things to keep him entertained apart from Djemma el Fnaa - a caleche ride, camel ride in the Palmieries area, the artificial beach at Oasiria -4km from Marrakech- apparently there is a bus there for 7Dh or a free shuttle service
http://www.ilove-marrakesh.com/oasiria/index_en.html

Marrakech tour bus - a 24 hour hop on-hop off bus - double decker, so good views and taped info - plus use to get around - ticket covers for palmieries etc

Chez Ali at night for Fantasia - Food, singers/ musicians, horsemen firing rifles, fireworks, camels etc.
I've got tips on these ideas (except for Oasiria) on my Marrakech page.

Essaouira- I think your child might enjoy clambering over the cannons on the sea walls, the beaches, the gnawa musicians.

Water,juices, ice creams etc are widely available to keep him/her hydrated.

Silver jewellery, perfumes etc readily available in Marrakech and Essaouira - check the Govt run ensembles first - fixed prices, so you can get an idea of prices so you can haggle at other places. In Marrakech, I found the Medina Souk near the Badia Palace to be cheaper and less crowded/hassling than the Souk near Djemma el Fnaa for spices, perfumes etc. I enjoyed the small spice market in Essaouira too, which had perfumes and incence too.

Have A Great trip,

Please feel free to contact me for further info

Best Wishes,
Sue

hi.
alot of good advice posted for you. the general vibe is that morocco is kid friendly.yes it will be hot in marrakech but you will always find a little oasis to chill out in.djemaa el fna is great for adults and kids alike...especially in the day for kids ...lots of colour, performers, monkeys snakes etc.jardin marjorelle is a beautiful place to relax with amazing plants and flowers just outside the medina near baab doukala.lots of kids activity parks (check lonely planet best of marrakech for example).
essaouira is so accessible and an easy walk around town.lots of shops and lovely food.kids will be fascinated by the old ramparts and canon but also with the fishing port and all the amazing boats.you also have one of moroccos best beaches so you have no worries on this trip.enjoy