The short answer
Very early, before dawn. On our sunrise flight the driver collects you from your riad around 05:00, you reach the launch field around 06:00 for coffee and the inflation, and lift off around 06:45. Exact times move with the season, because the flight is timed to sunrise. You are back at your riad by about 10:30.
In more detail
The flight is 45 to 60 minutes over the countryside north of Marrakech, with the High Atlas on the horizon. After landing there is a Berber breakfast in a tent, with mint tea, msemen pancakes and eggs, and a flight certificate.
There is an optional short camel ride after breakfast before the drive back. Because you are home mid-morning, the rest of the day is still free for the city.
Confirm the pickup time the day before. Since Morocco stays on GMT all year, the clock does not jump in spring or autumn; the time just follows sunrise.
The launch field is in the countryside north of Marrakech, not over the medina. The balloon goes where the wind takes it, so each flight traces its own route, and a support vehicle meets you on landing.
Good to know
- Wear a warm layer; it is cold before dawn and at altitude.
- Wear closed shoes for the launch and landing fields.
- Charge your phone or camera the night before.