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Balloons fly in Marrakech all year round.The best conditions are usually in spring, from March to May, and in autumn, from October to November: mild mornings, often calm air and good visibility towards the Atlas.Winter gives the clearest views of the snow-capped peaks, but mornings are cold and cancellations more frequent.Summer is still possible, with very early starts and a horizon sometimes veiled by heat haze.
Is spring the best season?
It is often the most pleasant.From March to May, mornings are cool but not cold, the countryside is still green after the winter rains and the air is often crystal clear.It is also the busiest period, especially around Easter.For many travellers, it is the best time for a hot air balloon ride in Marrakech.Departure times by season are explained in our article on the sunrise flight.
If you travel in spring, book your flight ahead and schedule it early in your stay, to keep some margin in case it is postponed.
Can you fly a balloon in summer?
Yes.From June to September, days are very hot in Marrakech, but dawn remains pleasant.The sun rises early, which means a pickup sometimes before 5:00.Summer is not the best time for a hot air balloon ride in Marrakech for everyone, but it works well for early risers.
The heat of previous days can leave a dry haze that softens the view of the Atlas.Flying conditions, on the other hand, are often stable in the morning.It is a good option if you travel in summer, as long as you accept a very early alarm.
Is autumn a good time?
Yes, it is a good compromise.From October to November, temperatures become mild again, crowds thin out after the summer and the light is beautiful.The first rains can occasionally disrupt a flight, but it remains one of the most balanced seasons.
Should you fly in winter?
Yes, for the best views, as long as you dress warmly.From December to February, the air is often very clear and the peaks of the High Atlas are frequently covered in snow: this is the season for the most spectacular panoramas.Mornings, however, are cold, sometimes close to freezing in the countryside, and fog or wind leads to more frequent cancellations.For photographers, winter can even be the best time for a hot air balloon ride in Marrakech.To face the cold morning, follow our advice on what to wear.
Dress warmly and keep several free mornings during your stay so you can reschedule if needed.
When are the busiest periods?
Demand rises during European school holidays, spring bank holidays and the end-of-year festivities.Prices move little, but places go faster and it becomes harder to choose your date.Outside these periods, a few days’ notice is often enough.Booking early matters as much as choosing the best time for a hot air balloon ride in Marrakech.To decide where to book, read our guide where to book a balloon flight.
During Ramadan, flights continue as normal; however, the official time can change in Morocco, which shifts the pickup time.Check the time confirmed for your date.
So when is the best time for a hot air balloon ride in Marrakech?
For the best balance of comfort, light and visibility, aim for spring or autumn.For the clearest views of the Atlas, choose winter and dress accordingly.In summer, count on a very early flight.Whatever the season, the sunrise hot air balloon page presents the available packages.
A question before your flight?
Our team answers on WhatsApp, whether or not you have chosen a package.
