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Every balloon flight in Marrakech takes off at sunrise, because that is when the air is calmest and most stable.Expect an alarm between 4:30 and 6:00 depending on the season, a cool morning, then a golden light that gradually reveals the countryside and, on clear days, the Atlas Mountains.The whole outing usually lasts four to five hours, including 40 to 60 minutes in the air.
Why do balloons always fly at dawn?
Because the air is calmest then.A hot air balloon has no engine to move forward: it follows the wind.The pilot only controls altitude, by heating the air in the envelope or letting it cool.That requires light, steady winds.A hot air balloon ride at sunrise is therefore a safety choice, not just a beautiful one.
At daybreak the ground has not warmed up yet and the air is generally calm.Later in the day, heat creates rising currents and gusts that make flying uncomfortable or even dangerous.That is why no flights take place in the afternoon in Marrakech.
What time do you leave, depending on the season?
You leave well before sunrise, to allow time for the drive and the inflation.In Marrakech the sun rises around 6:25 in mid-June and around 8:30 in mid-January, in local time (GMT+1).A hot air balloon ride at sunrise starts the night before, with an early alarm.Seasonal differences are covered in our guide to the best time to fly.
In summer, that sometimes means leaving before 5:00.In winter, the alarm is a little later, but the mornings are cold.The exact time is confirmed for your date.
How does a hot air balloon ride at sunrise unfold?
The drive into the countryside happens while it is still dark.On arrival you are served a hot drink while the crews lay out the envelopes.Inflation begins in the glow of the burners: one of the most photogenic moments of the morning.If it is your first time, read our first flight guide.
Take-off happens as the sky brightens.The first minutes are often bathed in a bluish light, then the sun appears on the horizon and colours the whole landscape.After landing, breakfast is served on the ground, and the return to Marrakech is mid to late morning.
What can you see at sunrise?
The low morning light stretches the shadows, brings out the relief and gives fields and earthen villages warm tones.On clear days, especially in winter and spring, the peaks of the High Atlas, sometimes snow-capped, stand out on the horizon.This light is what makes a hot air balloon ride at sunrise so photogenic.
The route depends on the wind, so you cannot choose what you will fly over.Flying over the Marrakech medina is not guaranteed, and a light haze can veil the horizon on some days, particularly in summer.
Is it cold at sunrise?
Often, yes.It is cool before dawn, even in summer, and properly cold in winter, when mornings can drop below 10 degrees Celsius.In flight you feel the heat of the burners above your head from time to time, but it does not warm the whole basket.Dressed well, you will fully enjoy your hot air balloon ride at sunrise.
Wear several layers that you can remove as the morning goes on, and closed shoes for walking in the fields.
How do you book a dawn flight?
If you want to book a dawn flight, the sunrise hot air balloon page details the packages and times.To plan your outfit, see our guide on what to wear for a hot air balloon flight.Every package on this website is a hot air balloon ride at sunrise.
A question before your flight?
Our team answers on WhatsApp, whether or not you have chosen a package.
