Hot air balloon flight in the desert with camel ride

A Glowing Review of the Marrakech Hot Air Balloon & Camel Ride Experience

Recently, we took a close look at an offering from Atlas Montgolfière—a hot air balloon flight in the desert combined with a camel ride through the palm groves. While we haven’t participated ourselves, the detailed reviews and tour itinerary paint a picture of a genuinely memorable adventure.

What we love about this experience is how it seamlessly combines stunning aerial views, an authentic Berber breakfast, and a relaxed camel trek—all in one package. The family-run operation adds a personal touch, and their years of experience promise a smooth, well-organized day. One thing to consider is the weather dependence—bad weather can lead to cancellations, which is crucial for planning.

This tour appeals most to travelers seeking unique photo opportunities, culture, and a bit of adventure without excessive physical exertion. It’s ideal for those wanting a well-rounded, memorable day that covers scenic vistas and authentic Moroccan hospitality.

Key Points

• Authentic Moroccan experience: Berber-style breakfast and family-run service
• Incredible views: Sunrise over the Atlas Mountains and desert landscapes
• Balanced itinerary: Hot air balloon flight, camel ride, and breakfast in a single day
• Good value for money: With detailed reviews praising the organization and guides
• Weather dependent: Cancellations possible if conditions aren’t safe
• Group size: Max 20 travelers, creating a personalized atmosphere

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Pickup and Transport Experience

Your day begins with a pickup from your Marrakech accommodation, typically arranged via a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle. This direct transfer to the take-off site minimizes stress and makes for a seamless start. Travelers consistently mention punctuality as a highlight, with many reviewers noting their driver was on time, often offering coffee or tea to settle in before the adventure kicks off.

Stop 1: The Take-Off Base in Jbilat Desert

After roughly 30 minutes of travel, you arrive at the Atlas Montgolfière base, set in the expansive Jbilat desert. The scene is surprisingly inviting—a welcoming atmosphere with drinks offered upon arrival, and a cozy campfire to set the mood. The base itself is a testament to Moroccan hospitality, with staff eager to make you comfortable.

For those who love to know the details, reviews highlight a new fleet of hot air balloons featuring Moroccan flags, adding a patriotic touch to the flight. The base also serves as a great spot for photos, with the desert and mountains providing a stunning backdrop.

The Hot Air Balloon Flight: Sunrise Over the Atlas

The highlight for most is the one-hour hot air balloon flight. As the pilot gently lifts off, you’ll float over the desert and mountain landscape, witnessing the sunrise and the changing colors of dawn. Reviewers repeatedly mention how peaceful and awe-inspiring the ride is. One reviewer described it as “a magical moment,” emphasizing the silence and serenity during the ascent.

Guides like the crew from Lörrach, known for their humor and professionalism, help create a relaxing atmosphere. Participants are often surprised by the crisp clarity of the views, from the rugged peaks of the Atlas to the sprawling palm groves below.

The Breakfast in a Berber Kasbah

Post-flight, everyone is invited to a traditional Berber kasbah, where an all-you-can-eat breakfast awaits. Think fresh bread, local cheeses, olives, and a variety of Moroccan pastries, all prepared that morning by Berber locals. Many reviews praise the authenticity and quality of the breakfast, with some calling it a “fantastic way to start the day.”

The setting itself adds to the charm—stone walls, woven rugs, and traditional decor make you feel like you’re stepping into a different world. It’s a great chance to chat with locals, learn about Berber culture, and relax before the next activity.

The Camel Ride: A Gentle Trek in the Palm Grove

The final stop is a 30-minute camel ride through Marrakech’s famous palm groves. Reviewers mention that the ride is well-organized, with gentle camels suitable for all ages. One guest noted that the guides were particularly helpful, especially when helping children or those less accustomed to riding camels.

The ride offers a different perspective of the lush greenery and the surrounding desert landscape, creating a perfect photo opportunity. Many describe it as a relaxing experience that complements the early morning excitement of the flight.

What the Reviews Say

The majority of reviews are glowing, with a 4.5 out of 5 rating based on 31 reviews. Enthusiastic comments praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views. Kevin_M, a reviewer, called the experience “amazing” and highly recommended the company, emphasizing the punctuality and professionalism of the team.

Many travelers also appreciated the value for money. For around $203, you get a full day of adventure, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Reviewers like Andrew_P shared that the day was “well-organized and great value for money,” highlighting the smooth flow from one activity to the next.

However, some reviews mention cancellations due to weather, which is standard for balloon rides. Charita_S was disappointed when the trip was canceled last minute, but the company clearly states weather conditions are beyond their control, and safety comes first.

Unique Insights from Reviewers

A couple of reviews point out small details that make a difference. For example, NAJVA_A appreciated how the organizers accommodated families with babies, splitting them into smaller groups to ensure everyone could enjoy comfortably.
W_H was less fortunate, with a last-minute cancellation, which underlines the importance of flexible planning and weather checks.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Duration and Schedule

The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, with some variability depending on weather and group size. The hot air balloon flight itself is about one hour, but the whole day includes pickup, transport, breakfast, the flight, and the camel ride.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 20 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate feel, allowing for personalized attention from guides and pilots. This group size also enhances the safety and comfort of the balloon flight.

Cost and Value

At around $203.25 per person, the price might seem steep at first glance. Still, considering the inclusion of breakfast, a flight certificate, camel ride, transfers, and the experience of flying over the mountains at sunrise, many agree it’s a worthwhile investment. The reviews suggest it offers excellent value, especially for those seeking more than just a sightseeing tour.

Cancellation and Weather Policy

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which is a plus for flexible planning. Because the flight depends on good weather, cancellations are sometimes unavoidable—if the weather is unsafe, the company prioritizes safety and reschedules or refunds participants.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers wanting a blend of breathtaking views and culture. It’s perfect for those who love photography, peaceful mornings, and authentic Moroccan hospitality. It suits families, couples, and solo travelers alike, especially those happy to embrace the unpredictability of weather-dependent activities.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, memorable day that combines a unique perspective of Marrakech’s landscape with authentic local culture, this tour has a lot to offer.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle will pick you up from your accommodation in Marrakech and transport you to the take-off base.

How long does the whole tour last?
Approximately 5 hours, including transfers, breakfast, the balloon flight, and the camel ride.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for early morning temperatures, and it’s wise to dress in layers as it can be chilly at dawn.

Can children participate?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including families, with some reviews noting they accommodated children comfortably.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The flight can be canceled for safety reasons, in which case you’ll be offered a rescheduled date or a full refund.

Is the hot air balloon flight safe?
Yes, the company has been operating for 8 years, with safety as a top priority. The pilots are experienced, and the balloons are new and well-maintained.

Are photos included?
No, photo services are not included, so you may want to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the moments.

In summary, this Marrakech hot air balloon experience with camel ride offers an authentic, scenic, and culturally enriching day out. It’s a wonderful choice for those wanting a bit of adventure, stunning vistas, and a taste of Moroccan hospitality—all wrapped into one unforgettable package.