Tour operator
Marrakech Food Tours
A Marrakech food tour company offering evening street food walks beyond Jemaa el-Fnaa, artisan and snack tours, Ramadan iftars and food-focused day trips.
Ciel d’Afrique
A hot-air balloon company operating flights over the Marrakech area since 1990, with classic, VIP and private options and a booking office in Guéliz.
At a glance
- Type
- Hot-air balloon flights
- Area
- Guéliz, Marrakech, Morocco
- Official site
- cieldafrique.info
Good to know
- Classic
- VIP and private flights
- Gift vouchers
Why we recommend it
Ciel d'Afrique has been flying hot-air balloons in Morocco since 1990, making it one of the longest-established balloon operators in the country. Its office is in Guéliz, and its flights over the Marrakech area take off from the countryside outside the city, with the Palmeraie listed as the flight zone on its booking form.
A sunrise balloon flight is one of the most memorable ways to see the landscape around Marrakech. As the balloon rises in the early morning, you look down over palm groves, villages and farmland, with the High Atlas Mountains on the horizon on clear days. The company offers several formats: a classic shared flight, VIP options with more space or extras, a top-tier VIP flight, a private royal flight and gift vouchers. Details of what each includes, such as basket size and refreshments, are set out on the official website.
Balloon flights suit couples, families with older children and anyone celebrating a special occasion. Flights depend on the weather, and operators cancel or postpone if wind or visibility are unsuitable, so it is wise to book early in your stay to leave room for a second attempt. Expect a very early start, as balloons fly at dawn when the air is calmest, and dress in layers, as it can be cold before sunrise even when the day turns hot.
Ask about any age or health restrictions when booking, as getting in and out of the basket requires some agility, and check whether hotel transfers are included in the option you choose. Allow most of a morning for the experience, from pickup to return. The company can be contacted by phone, WhatsApp or email, and bookings are made through the website.
The Guéliz office is at the corner of Avenue Abdelkrim El Khattabi and Avenue Moulay Abdellah, but you will not need to visit it for a standard booking. After the flight you will be back in the city by late morning, leaving time for a relaxed lunch and an afternoon in the medina or a rest by the pool. If your flight is cancelled because of the weather, ask about rebooking on another morning of your stay.
Ciel d’Afrique FAQs
How long has Ciel d'Afrique been operating?
Since 1990.
Where do flights take place?
Over the Marrakech area, with the Palmeraie listed as the flight zone.
What flight options are available?
Classic, VIP, top VIP and private royal flights, plus gift vouchers.
What time do flights take place?
Balloon flights take place at dawn, when conditions are calmest.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Flights depend on the weather, so book early in your stay in case a flight needs to be moved.
What should you wear?
Warm layers, as it can be cold before sunrise.
How do you contact the company?
By phone, WhatsApp or email, with bookings through the official website.