When we decided to take our kids (ages 8 and 11) to Morocco, we had no idea it would become the most memorable family trip we've ever taken. Here's our story.

Planning the Trip

We wanted authentic experiences, not tourist traps. After extensive research, we planned: 3 days Marrakech, 2 days Ouarzazate, 4 days Zagora (La Petite Kasbah), 3 days Essaouira, 2 days back in Marrakech.

Arriving at La Petite Kasbah

The drive from Marrakech to Zagora was long (7 hours) but spectacular. When we finally arrived at La Petite Kasbah, travel fatigue melted away. The riad sits in a palm grove - instantly peaceful.

Fatima welcomed us with mint tea and homemade cookies. Our two rooms were beautifully decorated with traditional Moroccan tilework and comfortable beds. The kids loved the pool!

Desert Adventures

On our first full day, we did a camel trek to a desert camp. Our 8-year-old was nervous at first but ended up loving it. Watching the sunset from the dunes while riding camels - honestly, I got emotional.

The overnight camp was magical. Berber music around the fire, incredible tagine dinner, and a sky full of stars. Our 11-year-old said it was "better than any video game" - high praise!

Palm Grove Exploration

We spent a morning walking through the palm grove with a local guide. He taught us about date varieties, showed us ancient irrigation channels, and let the kids climb palm trees (supervised!).

The peace and beauty of the oasis was such a contrast to our busy Australian life. We saw local farmers working, kids playing, donkeys carrying loads - real life, not staged for tourists.

Fatima's Cooking

The food at La Petite Kasbah deserves special mention. Fatima's cooking was phenomenal. Fresh bread every morning, different tagines each evening, and her couscous on Friday was incredible.

She even taught us how to make mint tea properly - now it's become a family ritual at home!

The People

What made La Petite Kasbah special wasn't just the place - it was the people. Brahim organized our desert tours with such care. Yassine helped us with everything from laundry to recommending less-touristy places.

They treated our kids like their own grandchildren. By day three, the kids were teaching them Australian slang, and the staff was teaching them Berber words.

Unexpected Highlight

On our last day, there was a local wedding in the village. The staff asked if we'd like to see the celebration. We felt honored to witness this - the music, dancing, colorful traditional outfits, and overwhelming hospitality of the bride's family who invited us to join the feast.

Our kids still talk about the wedding more than anything else from the trip.

What We Learned

- Slow travel is better than rushing between cities
- Authentic guesthouses beat fancy hotels every time
- Our kids are more adaptable than we thought
- Hospitality transcends language barriers
- Desert silence is healing
- Family bonds strengthen through shared adventure

Practical Tips for Families

If you're considering Morocco with kids:

- Choose one home base (like Zagora) for several days rather than moving constantly
- Kids adapt quickly to new foods - encourage trying everything
- The desert isn't dangerous - guides are extremely safety-conscious
- Bring layers - temperature swings surprised us
- Cash is essential outside cities
- Book accommodations that genuinely welcome families

Would We Return?

Absolutely. In fact, we're already planning our return trip. We want to explore the Atlas Mountains more, spend time in Fes, and definitely return to La Petite Kasbah.

The kids have asked if we can spend the whole vacation there next time - they loved it that much.

Final Thoughts

La Petite Kasbah wasn't just accommodation - it became our Moroccan home. The warmth, authenticity, and care we experienced there set the tone for our entire trip.

If you're considering Zagora, don't hesitate. Choose a place like La Petite Kasbah where you'll experience real Moroccan hospitality, not just a bed for the night.

Our family will forever treasure these memories. Thank you to everyone at La Petite Kasbah for making our Moroccan dream come true!

*- The Johnson Family, Sydney, Australia*