Unforgettable Experiences in Marrakech: A Hot Air Balloon Ride at Dawn

Among the experiences everyone should try at least once in a lifetime, a hot air balloon ride stands out. Why not do it during a vacation in Morocco?
If you’re on vacation in Marrakesh and have already explored the Medina, the souks, the lively Jemaa el-Fnaa square, the peaceful Majorelle Garden, or the exotic Saadian Tombs, you might be ready to venture beyond the city and see more. And Morocco has much to offer, from lush valleys (like the Ourika Valley) to the imposing Atlas Mountains, from the rocky Agafay Desert to the dunes if the vast Sahara Desert await. So why not admire the North African landscape from above?

What to Know Before Taking a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Marrakech

A hot air balloon ride offers a unique perspective on Morocco’s beauty and doesn’t require any special physical preparation.

It is generally suitable for a wide range of people. However, it’s not recommended for those with severe vertigo or major mobility challenges.

The balloon glides smoothly at a calm, controlled speed—usually between 15 and 25 km/h—making for a relaxed and peaceful flight. This is also why flights are canceled in the event of strong winds, ensuring maximum safety. Since the balloon has no rudder, the pilot can’t steer in a traditional sense. The direction of flight is determined by wind currents at different altitudes, and the pilot uses these to guide the balloon, sometimes reaching heights of up to 1,300 meters.

Most hot air balloon rides take place at dawn, not only to benefit from more stable weather and favorable wind conditions, but also to give passengers the chance to witness something extraordinary: the sunrise over the Moroccan desert. Watching the first light illuminate a vast and silent landscape, with the Atlas Mountains on the horizon, is a memory that stays with you forever.

How to Prepare for Your Hot Air Balloon Ride

To enjoy your flight to the fullest, wear comfortable, practical clothing. Athletic or casual wear is ideal, along with sneakers, hiking shoes, or other closed, low-heeled footwear—generally the best choice for exploring Morocco.

Since you’ll be flying at high altitude in the early morning, it’s important to dress in layers. A windbreaker or fleece jacket is essential to protect against the chill, and a scarf or shawl can be useful to cover your head. As the sun rises, the temperature increases, so consider bringing a hat with a brim and some sunscreen.

If you want a snack before the flight, keep it light. And don’t forget to bring a water bottle.

What to Expect During the Experience

To catch the sunrise from the sky, your day will begin very early. You’ll need to wake before dawn to reach the launch site, with the journey time depending on your accommodation.

Once you arrive, you’ll witness the fascinating process of balloon inflation, which takes about 30 minutes. During this time, the ground crew or pilot will provide a full safety briefing covering boarding, takeoff, and landing.

Just before sunrise, you’ll take off. Once aboard, try to position yourself in a corner of the basket—these spots offer the best panoramic views, allowing you to fully absorb the sweeping landscape below.

Then the magic begins. Within minutes, the balloon ascends gently, and Morocco unfolds beneath you: villages, mountains, arid lands, and cultivated fields stretch out as far as the eye can see. You may even spot parts of the desert from above. As the sun rises, the sky changes color constantly, painting a breathtaking canvas. Bring binoculars to take in every detail of the terrain.

Landing is just as gentle as takeoff. You’ll be asked to hold onto the safety handles and bend your knees, as the pilot will demonstrate, to help absorb the soft impact with the ground. Once the balloon is safely on the ground, passengers disembark one by one.

The adventure usually concludes with a stop in a nearby village, where you can enjoy a traditional Berber breakfast served in a tent: classic mint tea, fresh juices, Moroccan pancakes, cookies, and homemade bread.

You can choose among different hot air balloon tours in Morocco, which vary in duration and price depending on the company and itinerary. Usually, the actual flight lasts around one hour—an hour of pure wonder that you’ll remember for the rest of your life.