The short answer
It depends on the distance. On our itineraries, Aït Ben Haddou leaves at 07:00 and returns around 19:30; Essaouira leaves at 08:30 and is back in the evening; the Three Valleys leaves at 08:30, back by early evening; Ourika leaves at 09:00, back by late afternoon. Agafay starts at 16:00, the balloon at 05:00.
In more detail
These are the usual times on our private day trips, and you can move them. Since the car and driver are yours for the day, an earlier start for the light or a later one after a late night is a simple change.
The longer the drive, the earlier the start. Aït Ben Haddou and Essaouira are long road days, so leaving early protects the time on the ground. Ourika and the Three Valleys are closer, so a 09:00 or 08:30 start is enough.
The two short outings sit at opposite ends of the day. The balloon has you back at your riad by about 10:30, and the Agafay evening ends after dinner and stargazing, with the drive back from around 21:30.
Good to know
- Pickup is at your riad or hotel, or the nearest gate to your riad.
- Ask for an earlier start in summer to avoid the midday heat.
- Do not book a long day trip for the morning after a late flight.