A Moroccan cooking class the whole family will never forget

When cooking becomes a journey in itself

Some activities I recommend because they are beautiful. And then there are others I recommend because they transform a trip. The Cours de Cuisine Marocaine au Musée des Arts Culinaires, in the Médina of Marrakech, belongs to that second category — especially when you are travelling with children.

I have accompanied families all over the city, and I can tell you: rarely have I seen children so focused, so proud, so utterly present. Kneading dough, recognising cumin by touch, pouring mint tea… These are simple gestures that leave lasting memories.

A tea ceremony to set the mood

The session includes a tea ceremony accompanied by Moroccan pastries, a guided tour of the Musée des Saveurs — a wonderful introduction to understanding where the country's spices, aromatic herbs and culinary traditions come from — as well as a cooking class led by a Dada.

The Dada: chef and storyteller

The class is led by a Dada, a chef who is an expert in traditional Moroccan cuisine. That word deserves a moment: in Morocco, Dadas are the guardians of a know-how passed down from generation to generation. With children, they have a natural patience and teaching gift that I admire every single time. They explain, demonstrate, and guide little hands — always gently.

Each participant has their own state-of-the-art cooking station. Even the youngest (the class is open from age 5, accompanied by an adult) have their own space, their own apron, their own moment. A museum assistant is present throughout the session to support the children.

What you make together

On the menu: making traditional Moroccan bread, discovering the aromatic herbs and spices from local markets, and of course preparing Moroccan dishes with fresh ingredients from the souks. Everything you cook, you enjoy together at the end — a truly convivial moment where parents and children share what they have created with their own hands.

And to take home a tangible souvenir: a tajine is given to each participant. I know of some that are still proudly displayed in the kitchens of families who returned from Marrakech two years ago.

Practical information to know before booking

• The class takes place every day at 10 am, 1 pm or 4 pm — choose the time slot that suits your day best.
• The activity is held in the Médina, just a short walk from the Palais Bahia.
• Booking is confirmed with a deposit of €10 per person. The balance (€48 / 480 MAD per person) is paid on site, by card or in cash.
• Free cancellation up to 5 days before the activity.
• A bottle of water or a soft drink is included during the class. Outside food and drinks are not permitted on site.
• Transport can be arranged at an additional cost, on request.

My guide's tip

If you are travelling with family in Marrakech, I really encourage you to fit this class into your programme — ideally in the morning, when children are fresh and curious. Pair it with a Visite Privée des Souks de Marrakech on the same day, and your family will leave with an understanding of the city that very few visitors are lucky enough to experience.

Moroccan cuisine is so much more than a recipe. It is a way of welcoming, sharing and passing things on. And children feel that straight away.