Last updated: · by the Ballooning Experience team
| December in Marrakech | |
|---|---|
| Season | Winter |
| Sunrise | Between 08:15 and 08:30 |
| Hotel pickup | Between 06:15 and 07:00 |
| Temperature at dawn | Around 7°C |
| Afternoon temperature | Around 19°C |
| Time in the air | 45 to 60 minutes |
| Back at your hotel | Late morning |
Approximate times in Morocco time and long-term average temperatures. During Ramadan Morocco moves its clocks back one hour. We always send your exact pickup time the evening before.
The weather in December
December mornings are cold on the field, often near freezing, but clear. Some days are windy or rainy, and then we stay on the ground.
Why fly in December, and what to know
| The good | Good to know |
|---|---|
|
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Your balloon morning in December, hour by hour
| Time (about) | What happens |
|---|---|
| 06:20 to 06:50 | Pickup from your hotel or riad in Marrakech |
| 07:05 | Arrival at our base: tea and coffee |
| 07:20 | Your pilot's briefing in person, before the balloons are prepared, with time for all your questions |
| 07:35 | The inflation of the balloons (if the wind requires it, the pilot moves the take-off place first) |
| 08:05 | Take-off as the sky lights up |
| 08:20 | Sunrise from the basket |
| 09:05 | Landing, celebration and flight certificates |
| 09:35 | Moroccan breakfast |
| 11:05 | Back at your hotel or riad |
Times for the middle of December. The exact time depends on the day and the wind; we send it the evening before.
What you see from the balloon in December
Snow on the High Atlas on clear mornings, and long, soft winter light over the villages.
Who December is perfect for
Christmas and New Year travellers, couples and families looking for a magical winter morning.
Which flight to choose in December
For Christmas or New Year, a VIP flight with breakfast served in the basket above the snowy Atlas is a gift to remember. VIP flight with breakfast on board (€620 per person).
What to wear in December
A warm coat, hat, gloves and scarf, layers underneath, closed flat shoes. Our full clothing guide.
Packing list for December
- Warm coat
- Hat, gloves and scarf
- Warm layers you can take off
- Closed flat shoes
- Sunglasses for after sunrise
- Phone or camera with a strap
Photo tips for December
Snowy peaks, low sun and long shadows. A balloon flight certificate and photos also make a beautiful Christmas gift.
How busy is December?
Quiet early in the month, very busy from Christmas to New Year. Book early for the holidays.
Tips for December
- A balloon flight is a popular Christmas gift: ask us about gift vouchers.
- Christmas and New Year weeks fill up quickly. Book as early as you can.
- Fly early in your stay, so there is time to reschedule if the wind moves your flight.
Things to do in Marrakech in December after your flight
You are back at your hotel by late morning, with the whole day ahead. Our ideas for December:
- New Year's Eve dinner in a riad
- The Ourika valley under snowy peaks
- A hammam to warm up
- Gift shopping in the souks
More ideas: 10 unforgettable things to do in Marrakech.
Prices in December
Our prices are the same all year, per person: classic shared flight €165, private balloon €330, VIP flight with breakfast on board €620. Hotel pickup, the briefing, the flight, breakfast and a certificate are always included. Book directly with us, the local team who fly you.
Questions about December
Can you do a hot air balloon ride in Marrakech in December?
Yes. Balloons fly over Marrakech all year, including in December, whenever the morning is calm and safe. If the pilot decides it is not safe to fly, you choose a new date or a full refund.
What time is hotel pickup for a balloon ride in Marrakech in December?
Sunrise in Marrakech in December is between 08:15 and 08:30, so hotel pickup is between 06:15 and 07:00 (Morocco time). We send you the exact time the evening before.
What is the weather like for a balloon flight in Marrakech in December?
December mornings are cold on the field, often near freezing, but clear. Some days are windy or rainy, and then we stay on the ground. Average temperatures in Marrakech in December are around 7°C at dawn and 19°C in the afternoon.
What should I wear for a hot air balloon ride in Marrakech in December?
A warm coat, hat, gloves and scarf, layers underneath, closed flat shoes.
Can I book a hot air balloon ride in Marrakech for Christmas or New Year?
Yes, we fly during the holidays when the weather is safe. The week between Christmas and New Year is very busy, so book as early as possible, and keep a spare morning.
