Quad riding in Marrakech with kids: what's the minimum age?

The question every parent asks me before booking

As soon as I mention the Agafay desert to families, the first question comes straight away: "Can my kids come quad biking?" And my answer is always the same — yes, absolutely, but there are a few clear rules you need to know before you book. In this article, I'll tell you everything I wish someone had told me from the start.

The activity I'm talking about: the Quad Agafay 2H

The Quad Agafay 2H dans le Désert de Marrakech is one of the experiences I recommend most often to families who want to get out of the city and live something genuinely different. You leave Marrakech, head out towards the Agafay desert, and for two hours you explore a mineral, dry, almost lunar landscape — aboard a two-seater quad, led by a professional guide.

What I particularly love about this format is that it's designed to be shared by two people on a single quad. One adult at the handlebars, one child or another adult seated behind. And that's precisely the point that answers the age question.

From what age can you get on the quad?

Here are the official rules for the activity — I'd encourage you to read them carefully:

• Rider: 16 years old and over. Below that age, driving the quad is not permitted, for obvious safety reasons.
• Passenger: from 6 years old. A child aged 6 and over can sit at the back of the two-seater quad, with an adult at the handlebars.

In plain terms: if you have an 8-year-old, they can absolutely live this adventure — sitting behind you, helmeted, fully equipped, with the wind in their face and eyes wide open on the desert. They're often the ones who come back to the hotel most excited, believe me.

For teenagers aged 16 and over, they can take the controls themselves — which obviously multiplies their excitement tenfold. A full safety briefing and all equipment (helmet included) are provided before departure, which always reassures me as a guide.

What's included — and what to plan ahead

To make sure the day runs smoothly, here's what the activity includes:

• A two-seater quad for each group (adult + child or two adults)
• A professional guide throughout the route
• A safety briefing before departure
• Helmet and protective equipment
• Return transfer from your hotel in Marrakech

On my end, I always advise families to wear closed-toe shoes and trousers — children included. Sunglasses are essential in the Agafay desert, and depending on the season, a light jacket can be very welcome at the start or end of the day.

How to book with peace of mind

One last practical point I always make a point of mentioning: the booking must be made at least 3 days in advance of the desired date. This is necessary to confirm availability with the operator. A deposit of €25 per two-seater quad is required at the time of booking, and the balance is paid in cash on the day.

Cancellation is free up to 3 days before the activity — beyond that, the deposit is non-refundable. I therefore recommend booking as soon as your plans are confirmed, so you don't find yourself looking for a last-minute spot.

My guide's take: an experience families never forget

I've seen dozens of families come back from this outing with stars in their eyes — kids, teenagers, parents alike. The Agafay desert has something truly unique: it's not far from Marrakech, yet it really does feel like stepping into another world. And on a quad, with a child clinging on behind you and squealing with joy, it's one of those travel memories that stays with you for a long time.

If you're still on the fence, feel free to ask me any questions — that's exactly what I'm here for.