Paragliding in Marrakesh

The cultural heart of Morocco and a place where ancient history meets colorful souks and iconic Moorish architecture, Marrakesh holds a certain allure for many travelers.

Its rich heritage and unique atmosphere make it the perfect destination for all kinds of visitors, adventure seekers included.

Stirring in the shadows of the great Atlas Mountains, the colorful city is also a launching point for myriad outdoor activities, namely Marrakesh paragliding tours.

Here's all you need to know about paragliding tours, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Marrakesh.

What are the best paragliding tours in Marrakesh?

Tandem Agafay Desert paragliding experience from Marrakesh

Starting with convenient hotel pickup from Marrakesh, this paragliding trip takes you on a short drive to the launch site in the Agafay Desert. When you're in Aguergour, you're then whisked away in a 4x4 to the take-off location. After a quick briefing from your expert instructor, it's time to take flight!

Soar over the desert landscapes and enjoy stunning views of the nearby Atlas Mountains, Lalla Takerkoust lake and the expansive Agafay desert as you glide through the air. And with this being a tandem experience, you can share the magic with a friend or loved one.

Solo paragliding over the Kik plateau from Marrakesh

The Kik Plateau is one of the most popular spots for paragliding in Marrakesh and with good reason. With its rocky cliffs, stunning views and excellent thermals, it provides a stunning backdrop for a paragliding experience.

After meeting your instructor and getting fitted for your harness, you'll get in the small aircraft and take to the skies. Once you're at the drop-off altitude, you are flung from the plane and into the great unknown, left to glide for about 20 minutes!

Your instructor will be with you every step of the way as you navigate your way across the Kik Plateau. Enjoy stunning views of Marrakesh, the nearby mountains and valleys as you glide through the air.

Atlas Mountains paragliding experience with extra local highlights

A great option for travelers who want to experience the excellent birds-eye views while also getting a dose of local culture, this Marrakesh paragliding trip makes a few stops before and after your flight.

En route to the Atlas Mountains launch point you will stop at the charming Azrou village, learn about Moroccan food and cosmetics at an argan oil cooperative and cross the Moulay Brahim gorges.

From there, you take to the skies on your flight. Following some lunch, you can then take a hike around some of the Atlas range's beautiful waterfalls before being taken back to your hotel.

Private paragliding flight

Ideal for solo travelers, couples or small groups, this private Marrakesh paragliding trip gives you the chance to tailor your experience to your needs.

After being picked up from your hotel, you'll be whisked away to the Agafay Desert for a pre-flight briefing. Once you're in Aguergour, you're then taken by jeep to the take-off location.

The beauty of private tours is that they can be tailored to your needs, so if you have any special requests such as additional stops, it can be arranged.

Because there are so many options for itineraries, private trips aren't always listed online, but you can contact the tour companies to arrange your perfect adventure.

How much does it cost?

The price of a paragliding tour in Marrakesh ranges between US$90 and US$150 for basic flights and transport packages. If you choose a more comprehensive tour, such as combo tours with local cultural experiences, expect to pay between US$150 and US$200.

Multi-day experiences can be as much as US$530. Specific prices follow:

The price of a tandem paragliding package is around US$150 for an individual. The price varies by group size, so the more people you have, the cheaper the experience. A group of 5, for example, will pay around $95 each.

A solo paragliding experience starts at US$130 per person if traveling solo or closer to US$90 if part of a group – more people equals a cheaper cost per person.

Due to being a more comprehensive experience, this kind of tour usually costs between US$130 and US$170 per person.

For a private paragliding flight varies depending on your custom itinerary. Contact the tour company for a quote.

What is included?

Every paragliding tour includes all of the equipment you need, such as the parachute, harness, and helmet, as well as a safety briefing and transport to and from the take-off point.

The price also covers the cost of the expert guide, who will be with you throughout the experience. Most companies also include lunch, water and snacks. You might have GoPro photography and video included too.

The more comprehensive tours will often include other activities such as camel riding, argan oil cooperative visits or hikes through waterfalls – so be sure to check what's included in your package before booking.

Where does it start?

The majority of paragliding tours in Marrakesh will start with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Marrakesh. If you are not staying in the main tourist areas, you can meet your driver at several main hotels around the city.

From there, you'll be driven to the meeting point where you'll receive a safety briefing and equipment fitting before being taken to the take-off point — in most cases, the takeoff point is close to the Atlas Mountains.

How long does it last?

Taking transport time into account, the shortest Marrakesh paragliding tour will last around three hours in total. The actual flight time is around 15-30 minutes, but this will depend on conditions on the day and the particular tour you choose.

If you opt for a combo tour that includes other activities, expect a longer experience of at least 7 or 8 hours.

When is the best time for a paragliding tour in Marrakesh?

The best days for paragliding in Marrakesh are typically between mid-October and late April when the weather is stable and there is little or no wind.

That said, conditions can change quickly, so always check the weather forecast before booking a tour.

As for the time of day, most tours begin in the morning to make the most of the cooler temperatures and beat the midday heat.

Are there any combo tours available?

Yes, you have several options if you want to combine your paragliding experience with another activity. Many companies offer combo tours that include other adrenaline-pumping activities or cultural experiences. Specific examples include:

Paragliding & Day tour with camel ride from Marrakesh

Starting with pickup from your hotel in Marrakesh, you'll be driven to the meeting point where you'll receive a safety briefing and equipment fitting before being taken to the take-off point.

After your 15-30 minute paragliding flight, you'll enjoy a traditional Moroccan lunch before being taken on a camel ride through the desert, passing by traditional Berber villages along the way – just like locals have done here for centuries.

3 Days to Imlil Valley, Agafay Desert with Paragliding, Quad and Camel Ride

This 3-days tour presents as the best option for travelers who want to get off the beaten path and explore more of Morocco's Haouz region's natural beauty.

You'll start with a pickup from your hotel in Marrakesh on day one before being driven to Imlil, a small village in the high Atlas Mountains (1,800 meters above seal level).

You visit local souks, go paragliding and camp overnight on day two, before exploring the Agafay desert on day three.

Is it safe?

Yes, paragliding tours in Marrakesh are safe, as they provide expert guides and safety equipment. These excursions are not Not recommended for travelers with back problems. If in doubt, check with the tour provider before booking.

Are children allowed?

Most of paragliding tours in Marrakesh has infant seats available.

What happens in case of bad weather?

The paragliding tours in Marrakesh will be canceled if weather conditions are unsuitable, and you can reschedule your trip or get a refund.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Marrakesh?

• Camel riding
• Quad tours
• Hiking
• Boat tours
• Hot air balloon rides
• Buggy tours
• Jeep tours
• Horse riding
• Bike tours
• Zip lining

Travel tips

• Don't have anything in your pockets when paragliding — if it falls out, you won't get it back.
• Pack sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses, even if it's not sunny when you start your tour, as it can get very hot when you're in the desert.
• Book your tour online and in advance to get the best price and ensure availability.
• For the best bang for  your buck, choose a combo tour that includes other activities or a multi-day excursion.