Marrakech Hot Air Balloon Scam Alert: Protect Yourself

The Moroccan Hot Air Balloon Association is warning against the multiplication of scams targeting tourists in Marrakech. Unauthorized intermediaries are posing as representatives of approved companies in order to market alleged hot air balloon flights.

On Bladi.net : Morocco Revokes Hot Air Balloon Licenses in Marrakech Over Safety Violations

Tickets are notably being offered to foreign visitors on Jemaa el-Fna square. After paying, customers would discover that the reserved excursion doesn’t exist or that the intermediary represents no authorized company.

Hot air balloon tourism transport activity is strictly regulated. Only companies with authorization issued by the General Directorate of Civil Aviation can organize these flights, according to precise safety and insurance requirements, the association recalls.

These practices also harm legitimate businesses, which invest in equipment, training and compliance with safety standards. They also risk damaging Marrakech’s tourism image, one of the kingdom’s main destinations.

On Bladi.net : Morocco Suspends Tour Agencies After Hot Air Balloons Endanger Flights Near Marrakech

The association states that Morocco holds the second place worldwide in the hot air balloon excursion sector. It calls on local authorities, tourism police and the Transport Ministry to strengthen controls. Travelers are invited to verify the operator’s identity and authorizations before any payment.