Hot Air Balloon Rides in Marrakesh

Hot air balloon rides in Marrakesh are an unmissable experience when you're in the area. Take in the sights of the city from up high, as you float gently over rooftops and minarets before flying over the Moroccan countryside.

A hot air balloon ride is a chance to see Marrakesh from a different perspective and experience contrasting sides of the Moroccan landscape.

What are the best hot air balloon rides in Marrakesh?

Marrakesh classic balloon flight

On this 4.5-hour tour, you will be collected from your hotel early in the morning, as you travel out of the city to the launch site. You can relax and enjoy a Moroccan coffee while you watch the team prepare the balloon.

After a safety briefing, you will climb inside the basket and enjoy an hour-long ride over Marrakesh and the Moroccan countryside. During your flight, you will cover a distance of 9 to 15 miles, depending on the wind conditions.

After you land, you will visit a Berber house, which is a traditional Moroccan house that is built using mud bricks and has a flat roof. Enjoy a delicious local breakfast before you make your way back to your hotel.

Royal ballooning private flight experience

A private hot air balloon flight is the ultimate way to experience Marrakesh from the sky. On this tour, your group will have the balloon and pilot to yourselves. This is the perfect tour for couples or small groups who want to enjoy a more intimate experience.

You will fly for around an hour, covering a distance of up to 15 miles. As well as admiring the city of Marrakesh from the sky, you will also float over the countryside and a traditional Moroccan village. This is a memorable way to witness the many contrasting sides of Morocco’s landscape.

During the flight, you will enjoy a traditional Moroccan pastry. Then, on the way back to your hotel, you will stop at a local spot for some mint tea and freshly baked bread.

How much do hot air balloon rides in Marrakesh cost?

Hot air balloon rides in Marrakesh start from US$190 per person for a shared flight with other passengers. This price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as tea at a local Berber house.

Private hot air balloon tours cost around US$590 per person. This tour is more expensive because you will have the balloon to yourself and enjoy a more intimate experience. You will receive the undivided attention of the pilot and have more space in the basket.

What is included in a hot air balloon rides in Marrakesh?

Hot air balloon rides in Marrakesh usually include hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation to the launch site. Private tours also include refreshments while you are in the air, and most tours include a stop for tea or breakfast after the flight.

Where do hot air balloon tours in Marrakesh start?

Usually, you will be picked up from your hotel at the start of your hot air balloon tour in Marrakesh. Your tour operator will confirm the pickup time with you when you book the tour. On the day of the hot air balloon ride, you will travel to a launch site just outside of Marrakesh, where your flight will begin.

How long do hot air balloon rides in Marrakesh last?

Hot air balloon rides usually last between four and five hours from start to finish. This includes travel time between your hotel and the launch site, the safety briefing and a breakfast stop on the way back to the city. The flight itself lasts for an hour.

What is the best time for a hot air balloon ride in Marrakesh?

The morning is the best time of day for hot air balloon rides in Marrakesh. The weather is usually the calmest in the morning, and the air is cooler, which means the balloon will fly better. You may also get to see the sunrise over Marrakesh as your balloon departs.

Hot air balloon rides in Marrakesh are possible all year round. However, the optimal time to book your tour is in the spring or autumn. The weather is not too hot during this time, which makes for a more comfortable experience.

Are there any combos available with hot air balloon rides in Marrakesh?

Hot air balloon and spa in Marrakesh

Combine your hot air balloon tour with a relaxing day at a spa. After your flight, you will be taken to a traditional spa where you can enjoy a classic Moroccan massage and sauna. Spas are an important part of Moroccan culture, so this is a great way to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle.

Hot air balloon and camel ride in Marrakesh

On this tour, you will enjoy a Marrakesh hot air balloon ride plus a camel ride through the desert. This is a great way to see two very different sides of Moroccan life and enjoy two exciting and fun activities that you might not be able to try anywhere else.

Is it safe to take a hot air balloon ride in Marrakesh?

Hot air balloon rides in Marrakesh are perfectly safe. However, they are not suitable for wheelchair users.  All passengers must be able to climb into the basket unassisted. However, hot air balloon rides are not generally recommended for pregnant women, especially those in their first or final trimester.

It's also important that you do not consume any alcohol before your hot air balloon tour. You will not be able to join the ride if you appear to be intoxicated. Also, keep in mind that no alcohol is allowed on board the balloon.

Are children allowed on a hot air balloon ride in Marrakesh?

Children over the age of 4 are allowed on hot air balloon rides in Marrakesh. However, babies and toddlers are not allowed due to safety concerns.

Travel tips

• It's a good idea to dress in layers for your hot air balloon ride. Temperatures are cool early in the morning but quickly warm up after the sun rises. It's also generally cooler in the air than it is on the ground.
• Wear closed-toe shoes for your hot air balloon tour. You will be walking around the launch site and getting in and out of the basket, so comfortable shoes are a must.
• Don't forget your camera. You will want to take plenty of photos during your hot air balloon tour in Marrakesh. Make sure your camera is fully charged and that you have plenty of space on your memory card.
• Bring sunscreen, hats and sunglasses. The sun can be very strong in Marrakesh. It's important to protect yourself from the sun during your ride and on your way back to the city.