Hot Ait Balloon above the Atlas Mountain

Morocco, with its varied landscapes of mountain ranges and endlessly stretching deserts makes an ideal hot air ballooning destination. One of the top places to do this is near Marrakech where the Atlas Mountains meet the vast desert plains. Participants can have a peaceful experience and see the beauty of Morocco from a perspective that few have truly seen before. The experience starts way before dawn, when hot air balloon companies come to pick you up from your accommodations to drive to the launch area. Watching the balloon inflate is an experience in itself; it is like watching a giant canvas come to life and fill with hot air. As you climb into the basket, then feel the gentle lift off of the ground, any fear or nervousness on the flight dissipates into wonder and excitement as you feel the balloon elevate. Higher and higher you fly and the landscape starts to break apart into sections below; it is all there: the patchwork of agricultural harvests and fields, the villages and houses and the dark and flimsy palms of the oases all separated by the dry desert. If it is early enough you can see everything aglow in the warmth of the rising sun. Occasionally, if lucky, off in the distance there are snow-covered peaks of the very high Atlas Mountains. One of the best parts about the whole experience in Moroccan hot air ballooning, is the tranquillity.

Unlike any other form of flying there are no engines – the only sound that accompanies flight is that of fires from the burner and, of course, the breeze moving against the fabric of the balloon itself. The serenity of hot air ballooning provides enough space for reflection, connection to the natural world and quite moments, that it is tough to find elsewhere. Generally, flights last about an hour, but this time is perceived differently as you drift along within the currents. Every second is a moment to relish – from wildlife, to shades of topography, and even noting just how tiny everything looks from aloft. The experienced pilots will often provide insight into local geography and everyday life, as well which adds further richness to the experience. You may be invited post flight for a traditional Berber breakfast, with pretty strong mint tea, and bread straight from a clay oven! Breakfast following the flight provides a unique opportunity to savor local tastes and continue with your stories with your travelling companions. Hot air ballooning in Morocco is wonderfully distinct from traditional tourism. Hot air ballooning will transform your perception of this stunning country. It is an experience that you will remember for a long time after you land. It allows one to see a different perspective of the country from a unique perspective.