
photo credit: Franz Tockner
Last Verified: December 2, 2024
Paragliding in Morocco
The Flying Experience
As the paragliding season comes to an end in many places in the Northern Hemisphere, the best flying weather is about to start on the Atlantic coast of Morocco and in the Atlas Mountains that span the country from north to south.
Morocco is known to be North Africa’s free flying paradise, where you can soar the rocky escarpments of the lower Atlas mountains in warm blue thermals, wearing shorts and a T-shirt. Then immerse yourself in the fascinating Islamic culture of the city of Marrakesh and its enthralling souks, and haggle yourself some real bargains in the evening.
If you are looking to get reacquainted with your wing, the coast south from Agadir is a great place to start. Flights from Europe to Agadir are budget-friendly, and car rentals are reasonably priced, making it super accessible for visiting pilots. There are numerous soaring sites that span the west coast of the country, all within easy reach from a town called Mirleft.
Regardless of the time of year, Morocco is an ideal destination for a flying holiday. Whether you're a novice looking to learn the ropes or an experienced pilot seeking a long distance flight.
Where to Paraglide in Morocco
Looking to go paragliding in Morocco? Join us here:
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-Missing a Flying Site? Click here!
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-Aguergour Atlas Base
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-Nid d’Aigle Beach Base
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Useful Resources
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Morocco
-Emergency Contacts in Morocco
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-All flying sites in Morocco (Google Maps)
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-Airspace Morocco
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-Xcontest flights from Aguergour
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-XCmag - Aguergour
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Morocco
-XCmag - Nid d’Aigle
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-XCmag - Morocco
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Know before you go!
Authorisation before you go:
In order to fly in Morocco, you need to have an authorisation delivered by the Moroccan Civil Aviation Authority CAA (Direction Générale de l'Aviation Civil DGAC). This is what you need to provide to a local club (not directly to the CAA!): Copy of your passport, Evidence of third party liability, Evidence of pilot rating, Filled forms. You must ask a local paragliding club to submit the forms for you, preferably about 60 days before your arrival.
When you are in Morocco:
This is what you need have on you: Your passport, your pilot qualification, and current third party liaibility and the authorisation from the CAA.
Permitted flying area:
You are legally required to fly in the Airspace designated for paragliding. You can find this in French at [https://siamaroc.onda.ma/cartes_vfr.htm]. Make sure to ask the local pilots about this Airspace before you fly.
Search and rescue:
Paragliding in Morocco is certainly for the adventurous, it is a fantastic experience in a vibrant culture that most people remember for the rest of their lives. Please be aware that you are in Africa and that it will be extra hard when things go wrong. It should be noted that we are in remote locations without access to European or UK rescue standards. The hospitals in Marrakech and Agadir are of a high standard, but there are no helicopters for rescue, or ambulances with paramedics outside the city. Some local guys are first aid trained and qualified for remote rescue, but each visiting pilot should understand the dangerous nature of the sport and the difficulties these challenging remote locations can present. In any case we advise you to get an insurance, covering rescue and repatriation and medical expenses that specifically states the policy will cover paragliding activities.
Visa
Normally you should automatically be granted a visa at the border, for 90 days. But the best thing is to consult the Moroccan Embassy in your country.
Vaccinations
No specific vaccins are required in this country.
Tap water
Tap water is drinkable in big cities but in countryside and villages, it is often coming from local streams without treatments. It is advised to consume bottled water while being in the countryside, or bring a filter to save plastic.
Dress code
Including for women it is pretty relaxed. Morocco is very open to tourism and locals are used to see different outfits especially in touristic places. The only exception will be when visiting sacred and religious places where there'll be a stricter dress code, where both men and women need to cover up.
Weather and Climate
What is the Climate like?
In terms of general forecast, Morocco is a perfect destination for winter flying. At the Atlas range, conditions are known to be flyable almost everyday in winter. Some fronts may occur topping up snow on the summits but they generally don't last more than few hours to a few days. Summers are generally too hot and too thermic to fly during the day and only evening flights are recommended.
From October to December, Morocco is still mostly dry and dusty. Sun activity is decreasing as winter comes in, which translates into smoother thermal activity. Fronts may occur infrequently but it shouldn't be ignored, they will bring instability and the best skies known to cross-country pilots.
From January to April, as we get close to Spring, this is when it gets real good for cross-country flying, and flying in the Sahara dunes. Morocco gets greener, snow covers the mountain summit and water flows in the rivers. Thermals are smooth earlier in the season but powerful. Expect it to be windy (thermal dynamic) at launch, more windy as in the Alps.
Coastal soaring can be done all year around. The climate of the Atlantic coast resembles that of the Canaries, offering pleasant temperatures and consistent winds throughout the year. The trade winds combined with thermic air create optimal conditions to fly, and will help you to get reacquainted with your wing and gain some practice and confidence.
Paragliding in Morocco
The Travel Experience
How do you get around?
Most adventurous pilots opt for renting a car to explore the diverse landscapes, from the Atlas Mountains to coastal flying sites. It is cheap and super accessible.
For long journeys you can use the extensive network of buses and modern trains, which connect the ancient cities. The rest is done either by foot, horse-drawn carriages, or camel. Just try not to get lost in the desert on some nomadic spurt!
- Wondering how to get to the flying bases? Click on the flying base you would like to visit and check the transportation details there.
Ethnicity and religion
Moroccans are predominantly Sunni Muslims of Arab, Berber, or mixed Arab-Berber ancestry. The Arabs brought Islam, along with Arabic language and culture, to the region from the Arabian Peninsula during the Muslim conquests of the 7th century. Today, 99% of Moroccans consider themselves Muslim. However Islam as practised in Morocco is relatively “soft” compared to many parts of the Middle East. For example, covering of the head for women is not expected.
The most common flying regions are predominantly Berber areas. For centuries, Berbers have had a struggle for power with Arab tribes in North Africa. The Barbary Coast was known as a place where Arab and Berber pirates would prey on ships on the Mediterranean Sea.
Although many young Berber men now work in France and Spain, traditionally, Berbers raised sheep and cattle, or subsist by working in flour mills, doing woodcarving, quarrying millstones, and making pottery or jewelry. Women are generally involved with housework, weaving, and pottery. Berbers generally live in rural areas, where their housing are usually clay huts or tents made out of goat hair. In larger villages, their houses are made of stone.
Local language
Moroccan colloquial Arabic is composed of a unique combination of Arabic, Berber and French dialects. Along with Arabic, about 10 million Moroccans, predominantly in rural areas, also speak one of the three Moroccan Berber dialects (Tarifit, Tashelhit, and Tamazight). Although Arabic is Morocco’s official language, French is widely taught, and up north you will also find some Spanish speakers.
What to eat when you are hungry?
Moroccan cuisine is a harmonious fusion of Arabic, Berber, and Mediterranean influences, creating a tapestry of flavors that beckons culinary exploration. It is generally healthy and most pilots will go home heavier. Bring your sense of adventure, you won’t be eating cornflakes, bacon or baked beans out here!
You will come across many iconic tagine dishes and slow-cooked stews, which are infused with aromatic spices, showcase the country's diverse palate. Another staple dish you will be commonly served is Couscous, harmoniously accompanied by flavorful meats and vegetables. Don’t forget to try pastries such as pastilla and sfenj providing a sweet indulgence, and the hearty Harira soup during Ramadan.
As for drinks, the local mint tea, known as "atay nana," is an integral part of Moroccan hospitality, enjoyed throughout the day. Morocco has a tradition of flavorful herbal infusions, such as verbena and chamomile, and coffee, is often served strong and sweet. Other drinks include fresh fruit juices, like orange and pomegranate, which are a welcome refreshment when it’s hot.
What to read while you are on the road?
‘Culture Shock! Morocco’ is an excellent book to have before and during your paragliding trip. Morocco is an extraordinary country with some quirky people that are most eager to share their culture, if you approach them with respect. This book will help you to present yourself well. You can bookmark useful Arabic phrases, numbers and words that you will most likely use when in contact with the locals, even if it is just to stop getting targeted by overzealous shopkeepers. The author approaches Morocco with sympathy and understanding. But at the same time, he does a terrific job of explaining the ways in which Moroccans behave differently from people who have come from an Anglo-Saxon culture. Keep in mind though that this is one perspective of one of the most culturally diverse countries, and that this books first copyright was 20 years ago. Morocco has changed pretty drastically in the last two decades.
Another book we recommend is ‘Hope and Other Dangerous Pursuits’, by Laila Lalami, a book that follows four Moroccans that cross the Strait of Gibraltar illegally, and their reasons why. And ‘The Caliph's House’, by Tahir Shah, which is a highly entertaining account of a Brit moving to Casablanca. They will have to get used to elaborate exorcism rituals involving sacrificial goats to dealing with gangster neighbors intent on stealing their property.
What to do on your day off?
Morocco is well known for its vibrant culture and unmatched hospitality. The astounding coastal and mountain paragliding sites are really just a bonus.
This is a land from the Old Testament coping comfortably with modernization. Internet cafes rub shoulders with artisans' workshops; peasants on donkeys trot beneath billboards advertising the latest mobile phones. In Morocco you will feel more alive than anywhere else. As the Islamic culture is more relaxed than in other parts of the world, the locals are generally relaxed and welcoming, especially when you show respect for their culture.
Like the sea? This is an excellent opportunity to try out surfing, or if you are feeling cultural, visit a vibrant market to haggle for souvenirs, taste the local cuisine and delicacies, or explore the ancient medinas and historic architecture. Especially Marrakesh has long been a focal point for world travellers, because of its fascinating street life and markets.
Hiking
The area around Aguergour is known for its beautiful natural landscapes and hiking trails. Hire a local guide to explore. A guide will lead you along breathtaking routes, show you hidden treasures and tell you more about the flora, fauna and history of the area. It’s a great way to enjoy the peace and serenity of the natural environment.
Quad bike tours
For those who love speed and adrenaline, quad bike tours are available nearby. Hop on and enjoy the thrill of the off-road trails in rugged terrain.
Dromedary (Camel) rides
A dromedary ride is a unique experience that gives you the opportunity to explore the area in a traditional way, accompanied by a local guide. Hop on the carpet of a friendly dromedary and get a sense of the nomadic lifestyle as you travel through the beautiful landscapes.
And more!
* The Famous Jemaa El-fnaa in Marrakech
* The Souk (traditional open market) of Asni
* Visit valleys and go swimming
* Horse riding in mountain or desert area
* Traditional Hammam (wet steam room)
Featured in Morocco
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Morocco
-Fly with a GuideBook a Puffy Cloud guide and let them show you the most beautiful flying spots in Morocco.
You can join our small group any day between the 24th of February 2025 and the 5th of March 2025. Bookable per day.
- Pilot Guide
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Morocco
-Hotel Abertih (Mirleft)
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- Guesthouse
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Morocco
-Ground-handle RetreatEscape the winter chill and soar through the skies in one of the most breathtaking destinations for paragliding - Morocco! Join our exclusive Ground-Handle retreat.
This retreat takes place from the 8th of March till the 14th of March (2025)
- Groundhandling Course
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Morocco
-Train and Fly with AbdoAs an experienced tour guide I offer an all-inclusive experience for those pilots seeking the perfect combination of ideal weather, stunning landscapes, skill-building, and relaxation. I want you to have an unforgettable paragliding holiday.
My guiding starts every Sunday, but you can join any day. Bookable per day.
- Pilot Guide
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-Wagga D’aglou Parapente
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- Tandems
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Morocco
-Fly Morocco
- Tandems
- Tour Guide
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Morocco
-Gîte Aguergour (Chez Ahmed)
- Pilot house
- Guesthouse
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Morocco
-Maison d’Hôtes
- Pilot house
- Guesthouse
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-Add a featured Contact (free!)
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Pilots in Morocco
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