Hot Air Balloon Ride in Marrakech

Pre-Flight:

• Pick-up from Your Hotel
  • Most balloon operators will pick you up directly from your accommodation in Marrakech. Be ready in the early morning as tours usually start just before sunrise for optimal weather conditions.
  • Pick-up times depend on the location of your hotel and the time of year (earlier in summer, later in winter).
  • Transport is typically in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle or minivan.

Arrival at the Launch Site

• Arrival at the Ballooning Site

  • The launch site is located 30 to 60 minutes outside of Marrakech, in the Palmeraie.
  • Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the ballooning crew and have some time to stretch and enjoy the fresh morning air.

• Safety Briefing & Balloon Preparation

  • The pilot and crew will give you a safety briefing, explaining the flight procedures and how the balloon operates.
  • You will also watch as the team prepares the balloon for take-off. This includes the inflation process, which can be fascinating to witness.

Balloon Flight

• Take-Off and Ascent

  • After getting into the balloon basket, the crew will start the inflation process, and you’ll gently lift off into the morning sky.
  • The balloon ride typically lasts 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on weather conditions. During the flight, you’ll soar to altitudes of around 500 to 3,000 feet (150 to 900 meters).
  • Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic views  palm groves, Berber villages, and the Atlas Mountains in the distance. If you’re lucky, you might even spot wild camels and other desert wildlife.
  • Sunrise views are spectacular, with the golden light illuminating the landscape.

• Flying Experience:

  • The flight is calm and serene, with the occasional burst of heat from the burner to keep the balloon afloat. The experience is peaceful, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take photos or simply enjoy the quiet as you float through the sky.

Landing and Post-Flight Celebration

• Landing

  • As the balloon begins to descend, you’ll have another chance to see the surrounding landscape from a different perspective.
  • The landing is typically gentle, although sometimes it can be bumpy depending on the terrain. The ground crew will be waiting to assist with the landing and help you disembark.

• Celebratory Toast

  • After landing, many operators offer a celebratory toast of Moroccan mint tea or fresh orange juice to mark the completion of your flight.
  • You can also enjoy a light refreshment while the team packs up the balloon.

Moroccan Breakfast or Tea

• Traditional Moroccan Breakfast
  • Many operators will take you to a nearby Berber-style camp or outdoor tent for a traditional Moroccan breakfast.
  • The breakfast typically includes:
    • Freshly baked bread and pastries
    • Olives and olive oil
    • Cheeses, yogurt, and jam
    • Seasonal fruits
    • Moroccan mint tea or coffee
  • The breakfast is served in a relaxed, scenic setting, allowing you to take in the views of the desert or mountains while chatting with fellow passengers or the crew.

Certificate and Photos

• Flight Certificate
  • Many balloon operators provide a certificate of completion to mark your hot air balloon adventure.
• Optional Photos & Video
  • Professional photos or video footage of your flight can be taken by the ballooning team (for an additional cost).
  • These images often include shots of you in the basket, aerial views, and the post-flight celebration.

Return to Your Hotel (10:00 AM – 11:00 AM)

• Drop-Off
  • After breakfast and the post-flight activities, you’ll be transported back to your hotel in Marrakech.
  • Depending on traffic and your hotel’s location, you’ll typically arrive back between 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM.