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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 07 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Mandy Sinclair

For fans of hot-air ballooning, floating over the dramatic, arid landscapes and traditional Berber villages surrounding Marrakech just might become the most memorable experience of your stay: the views stretch mile upon mile, with the High Atlas Mountains strung out on the horizon.

Morning hot-air balloon rides are often followed by a traditional meal in a Berber village.

Recommended itineraries by our writers that include this experience

Price from: £150
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 10+
When: All year around
Duration: 5+ hours

Getting there & doing it

Operators will collect guests from their hotels, drive them out to their launching sites, usually some 45 minutes from Marrakech, then return them to their hotels at the end of the trip.

Check in advance about flying conditions and bear in mind that flights may be cancelled at the last minute. It gets surprisingly cold in the wee hours of the morning in Marrakech, even during hot months, so take warm clothing. All operators provide breakfast as part of the package.

There’s no minimum age as such, but it’s not much fun for those who cannot see over the basket. Children under 10 usually go half price.

First-time balloon-trippers are often disappointed by cramped baskets, burner noise and heat, and undignified landings. Form realistic expectations and you’ll love it. Or opt for a VIP package with Champagne and exclusive use of the basket.

When to do it

Flights take place year-round, though are entirely dependent on weather conditions. Take off is at dawn.

October to June see the best flying conditions and are the least likely months to see cancellations

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

 Hot Air Balloon Over Red City Of Marrakech, Atlas Mountains

Hot Air Balloon Over Red City Of Marrakech, Atlas Mountains

Marrakech

1- Transport by touristic insured cars Round trip 2- Meet At The balloon site , tea , coffee and refreshments are served 3- Safety brief...

€170 | Rating 4.75 / 5 [94 ratings]

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Tour supplied by:

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Atlas Mountain Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride From Marrakech

Atlas Mountain Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride From Marrakech

Marrakech

A must for Marrakech visitors, this morning tour takes you soaring over the foothills of Morocco’s Atlas Mountains on a sunrise hot air ball...

€175 | Rating 4.77 / 5 [119 ratings]

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Tour supplied by:

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Hot Air Balloon Flight over Marrakech with Traditional Breakfast

Hot Air Balloon Flight over Marrakech with Traditional Breakfast

Marrakech

“Join us for a lifetime experience in Marrakech” We invite you into the world of hot air balloons, a great and unique experience to observe...

€178 | Rating 4.89 / 5 [1018 ratings]

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Tour supplied by:

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 Hot Air Balloon Adventure over Marrakesh and Atlas

Hot Air Balloon Adventure over Marrakesh and Atlas

Marrakech

1- Transport by touristic insured cars Round trip 2- Meet At The balloon site , tea , coffee and refreshments are served 3- Safety brief...

€180 | Rating 4.83 / 5 [118 ratings]

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Tour supplied by:

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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Riad El Fenn

Marrakech, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco[0.2 miles]

Trendy boutique hotel in Marrakech’s old city, an easy walk to the medina’s palaces and souks, with the lively Jemaa el Fna just five minutes away.

Official star rating:

Royal Mansour

Marrakech, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco[0.5 miles]

A flamboyant, palatial hotel commissioned by the Moroccan king, popular with European royalty and celebrities. The place to stay in Marrakech.

Official star rating:

La Mamounia

Marrakech, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco[0.5 miles]

Sumptuous suites, monumental spa and massive pools make this luxurious legend a royal favourite.

Official star rating:

La Villa des Orangers

Marrakech, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco[0.5 miles]

One of Marrakech’s most luxurious riads, in a super convenient location, with a level of refinement and comfort that’s unmatched.

Official star rating:

Destination guides including or relevant to this experience

Our writer’s recommendations of other bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first

Jemaa El Fna

Marrakech, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco[0.4 miles]

UNESCO World Heritage-listed central square that hums with snake charmers, musicians, magicians and other exotics.

Best for ages: 6+ | Free

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Overview >

Souks of the Medina

Marrakech, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco[0.5 miles]

The world’s quintessential Arabic bazaar, the Medina’s maze-like souks are a shopper’s paradise.

Best for ages: 13+ | Free

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Overview >

Other worthwhile experiences near this experience if you have time or interest..

Fez-wearing cafe worker in front of wall covered in tin jars
Experience

Bacha Cafe

Marrakech, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco[0.8 miles]

Nestled inside the Dar el Bacha palace, Bacha Cafe is elegance at its finest. Coffee recommendations are suggested based on time of day, and are best accompanied by a treat from the cake counter.

Best for ages: 18+ | Free

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Overview >
Interior of ornately-tiled museum with Moroccan carpets on display
Experience

Dar Si Said Museum

Marrakech, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco[0.9 miles]

An impressive 19th-century palace with intricate Byzantine designs, Dar Si Said is home to a huge collection of artworks, instruments, arms and some of the oldest artifacts in the city.

Best for ages: 18+ | £3

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Overview >
Ornate, tiled interior of Moroccan burial chamber
Experience

Saadian Tombs

Marrakech, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco[0.9 miles]

Royal tombs of the Saadi dynasty, dating back to the 16th century, decorated with mosaics and intricate woodwork. There are no explanation panels to explain the historical relevance, so only really worthwhile if you’re interested in decorative arts.

Best for ages: 18+ | £6

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Overview >
Moroccan bread for sale in a shop in Marrakech
Experience

Bab Doukkala Market

Marrakech, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco[1 miles]

Bustling with fishmongers and butchers, street vendors selling in-season fruit and veg, bread fresh from the local oven, and more. In between, small kitchens serve street food specialties through the morning and afternoon.

Best for ages: 18+ | Free

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Overview >