Hot Air Balloon Marrakech FAQ | Safety, Prices & Flights

Find answers to common questions about hot air balloon flights in Marrakech. Safety, children, prices, weather, duration & cancellations

Passengers & Eligibility

Can children fly in a hot air balloon in Marrakech?

-Children aged 0–4 years fly free. For safety reasons, children must be old enough to understand safety instructions and tall enough to see over the basket without assistance.
-Children aged 5–10 receive a 50% discount, and over 10 years old pay adult pricing.

Can pregnant women fly?

No. For safety reasons, pregnant women are not permitted to fly due to the possibility of a firm landing. You are welcome to join friends or family at the launch and landing sites.

Can passengers sit during the flight?

No. All passengers must stand throughout the flight and bend their knees slightly during landing.

Safety & Regulations

Is hot air ballooning safe in Marrakech?

Yes. All flights are conducted by licensed pilots, approved by the Moroccan Civil Aviation Authority (DAC) and European aviation standards.

How are balloon pilots licensed?

Our pilots hold European licenses and Moroccan DAC authorizations, with thousands of flight hours and regular safety checks.

Who regulates balloon flights in Morocco?

Ballooning activities are regulated by:
-Moroccan Civil Aviation Authority (DAC)
-Regular navigability inspections (CDN)
-Valid Technical Certificate for Air Operations (CTE)

Booking & Payment

How do I pay for my balloon flight?

A deposit is required at booking via secure 3D payment. The remaining balance is payable before the flight by cash or credit card. We accept MAD, EUR, GBP, and USD.

How far in advance should I book?

We strongly recommend booking as early as possible, especially during peak seasons.

Flight Experience

How long is a hot air balloon flight in Marrakech?

-The balloon flight lasts approximately 60 minutes.
-The full experience takes 4–5 hours, including transfers, preparation, flight, traditional Moroccan breakfast, and return.

How high do balloon flights go?

Flights range from tree level up to 750 meters (2,500 feet), depending on weather conditions.

How far do balloons travel?

Flights typically cover 4 to 20 km, depending on wind speed and direction.

What will we see during the flight?

You will enjoy panoramic views of:
-Atlas Mountains
-Desert landscapes
-Berber villages
-Oases and valleys
-Each flight is unique, as balloons travel with the wind.

Weather & Cancellations

What are the best weather conditions for balloon flights?

Flights operate early morning when wind is calm and temperatures are stable — ideal conditions for safe flying.

What happens if my flight is cancelled due to weather?

If weather conditions are unsafe:
-Flights may be postponed
-Or 100% refunded if rescheduling is not possible
-Tickets remain valid for 1 year

Why are flights cancelled even when weather looks good?

Wind conditions at altitude may differ from ground level. Final safety decisions are always made by the pilot.

Transfers & Logistics

Where do balloon flights take off?

Launch sites vary daily based on wind direction, typically north of Marrakech, between the Tensift River and the Jbilet Mountains.

How do we return to the hotel?

A 4×4 chase vehicle follows the balloon and transfers you to breakfast, then back to your hotel or riad.

Health Considerations

Can people with heart conditions fly?

Passengers with cardiac conditions should consult their doctor before flying.

Will I feel airsick or dizzy?

No. Balloon flights are smooth, stable, and do not cause motion sickness.