Overview
A hot air balloon flight in Marrakech starts in the dark. We collect you from your riad or hotel before dawn, drive out of the city to the launch field, and you watch the balloon fill with air and flame while the sky turns from black to pale blue. Then the basket lifts, the noise of the city is gone, and the plain opens up below you: flat-roofed villages, olive trees, irrigated fields and, far to the south, the long wall of the High Atlas.
The flight itself lasts about 1 hour. The pilot steers by height, finding the air currents that carry you in the right direction, so every morning follows a slightly different line. After landing you are back in Marrakech by mid-morning with the rest of the day free. Many travellers pair it with an Agafay desert day trip for sunset, or use it as a gentle first day before one of our Sahara desert tours from Marrakech.
Highlights
- Watch the envelope rise off the ground as the burner roars at first light
- See the sun come up over the plain from the basket
- Drift low over Berber villages, olive groves and green fields
- Pick out the snow line of the High Atlas on a clear morning
- Be back in the medina by mid-morning, the day still ahead of you
Your balloon morning, step by step
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1
Early pickup from your hotel
Your driver meets you at the door of your riad or hotel, or at the nearest spot a car can reach in the medina. The streets are empty and the drive out of town is quick.
Around 5–6 am, depending on the season
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2
Tea at the launch site
Hot mint tea and something light to eat while the crew unpacks. The pilot gives a short safety briefing and explains how to stand in the basket for take-off and landing.
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3
Inflation
Fans push cold air into the envelope laid out on the ground, then the burner takes over and the balloon stands up. Keep your camera ready: this is when the flame lights the fabric from inside.
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4
The flight
The take-off is so smooth most people only notice it when they look down. The pilot climbs for the wide view of the plain and the Atlas, then drops low enough to hear dogs barking and see families on the rooftops waving up at you.
About 1 hour in the air
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5
Landing
The landing spot depends on the wind, usually an open field. You take up the landing position from the briefing, the basket touches down, and the ground crew drives over to meet you.
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6
Back to Marrakech
The driver takes you back to your accommodation. You arrive with the souks just opening and plenty of time for a nap or the rest of your plans.
Back by mid-morning · Drop-off at your accommodation in Marrakech
Included
- Return transfer from your accommodation in Marrakech
- Tea at the launch site
- Balloon flight of about 1 hour with a licensed pilot
Not included
- Photos or video of the flight
- Tips for the pilot and crew
Shared basket or private basket
Shared basket
You fly with other travellers in a larger basket split into compartments. Same sunrise, same views, lower price.
from €190 per person
Private basket
A basket just for you, your partner or your family, with the pilot. A good choice for a proposal or a birthday.
Price on request
Good to know before you fly
Safety and the operator
Flights are operated by our own team, Morocco Sahara Excursions. The pilot has the final word on whether it is safe to fly.
Weather and wind
Balloons only fly in calm air. If the wind is too strong, the flight is cancelled on the morning itself and you can move to another day or get your money back. Booking early in your stay leaves room for a second try.
Who can fly
You need to climb into the basket and stand for the whole flight. If you are pregnant or have back or heart problems, please tell us when you book.
What to wear
Layers: it is cool before sunrise, especially in winter, and warmer once the sun is up. Wear flat, closed shoes, as you may land in a ploughed field. A cap is useful under the burner.
Questions about the hot air balloon in Marrakech
What time is pickup for the balloon flight?
Usually between about 5 and 6 am, earlier in summer when the sun rises sooner. We give you the exact time when you book.
What happens if the flight is cancelled because of wind?
The pilot checks conditions on the morning. If it is not safe, you do not fly, and you can rebook or be refunded.
Is a balloon flight in Marrakech safe?
Flights are operated by our own team, Morocco Sahara Excursions, with a safety briefing before take-off. Flights only go ahead in suitable weather.
Can children fly in the balloon?
Children are welcome above a minimum age or height; ask us about your children when you book. A private basket is often easier with young children.
What is the difference between a shared and a private basket?
The route and flight time are the same. In a shared basket you fly alongside other travellers; in a private one it is only your group and the pilot. The shared basket starts at €190 per person; the private basket is priced on request.
Can I do something else on the same day?
Yes. You are back by mid-morning, so an afternoon Agafay desert trip with sunset dinner fits easily. If you leave for the Sahara the next day, the early night will help.
Reviews of the balloon flight
Rated 4.9/5 by 64 travellers on Tripadvisor.
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