Imagine you are flying and observing the beauty of nature below you! You can certainly just imagine it but also can feel it by being in a hot air balloon. Gliding through the sky, watching the serene sunset, enjoying the delicacies, and lots more. All this you can truly experience in this massive and colorful floating vessel. But do remember to take all the safety precautions in the ride and follow the instructions by the guides.
Check out these 10 famous destinations where you can plan to take a fantastic hot air balloon ride!
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Bagan, Myanmar
If you want to get lost in ancient temples in the forests, this ride is the perfect choice for you. The temples over here are dated back to the 9th century, many of them have eroded but their sculptures with red color blocks seem spectacular. Bagan’s Archeological Zone will mesmerize you with its Buddhist pagodas and monasteries up from the sky. You will also get to see beautiful landscapes, a view of Inle Lake and nearby villages in the balloon ride. Most amazing thing is to watch the temples glow orange and golden when the sun rises. Oriental Ballooning and Balloons over Bagan offer the best balloon rides in this “UNESCO World Heritage Site”.
Cappadocia, Turkey
You will truly get fascinated by the fairy chimney’s rocky formations in this famous destination for a hot air balloon ride. The sky looks blooming with balloons over here in the town of Göreme located in South Central Turkey. The Chimneys are worth watching as they are in a conical shape and you can find caves relaxing in the basket of the balloon. The view from the balloon of these scenic landscapes is fabulous. There are many tour operators in this region like Butterfly Balloons, Voyager Balloons, and Hot Air Balloon Cappadocia, and so on. The ride can be ranging between 45 mins to 2 hours. The most pocket-friendly rides are the ones that include group trips.
Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Are you an animal lover? If yes, this place is the best choice for you! Serengeti National Park offers extensive experience to observe wild species like zebras, elephants, lions, hippos, giraffes, wildebeests, and so on. You can get a peaceful bird’s eye view of this park instead of opting for the jeep tours of safari ride. With a pleasant balloon ride, you can see the splendid views not generally visible from the safaris. This enormous park ranges around 5,700-square-mile and is declared as “UNESCO World Heritage Site”. Most interestingly, Serengeti Balloon Tours will take your balloon ride to a whole new level by serving sumptuous breakfast with your ride.
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Queenstown, New Zealand
You need not worry if you are searching for a place that is both romantic and at the same time adventurous. Queenstown is actually an adventure sports capital in the world and you can opt for many adventure sports like bungee jumping, sky diving and so on. But you will have the once in a lifetime experience of hot air balloon too over here! After hopping into the basket, you will find breathtaking landscapes between Arrowtown and Queenstown. Also, a magnificent view of the mountain ranges of Remarkables, Wakatipu Lake, and some famous golf courses. It will make you more exciting as it was also a film location for the movie, Hobbit. Sunrise Balloon Adventures will guide you in the entire tour of around 1 hour.
Luxor, Egypt
The popular Valley of the kings and extraordinary Nile river will make your Hot air balloon ride turn awesome. Luxor is one of the ancient and historically rich regions in Egypt that consist of some famous temples and tombs of the bygone eras. The Luxor Temple which you will get to see from this ride is one of the most prodigious monuments built over 3,000 years ago. Tour operators like Sindbad Balloons will start your ride in the early morning and the ride length continues according to the winds blowing in these regions. This ride will also take you across Mortuary Temple of “Queen Hatshepsut”, that is beautifully carved into the cliffs at “Deir el Bahari,” and the Temples of Ramses.
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Gstaad, Switzerland
If you want to fly above the snowcapped mountains and enjoy the pines all around, you must try this balloon ride for sure. Gstaad, a beautiful town in Switzerland surrounded by the misty range of Alps. During both summers and winters, the Apline Ballooning tour operator will offer you the most incredible experience to see the place known as Berner Oberland. You will find yourself lost in heaven in the midst of the crystalline lakes, massive glaciers, mountain panoramas, dense forests, and dramatic waterfalls. For ultimate ride, you must visit during January when they have a Festival of International de Ballons of Chateau-d’Oex.
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Melbourne, Australia
Australia is full of magical places especially in Melbourne, you can opt for the hot air balloon ride to take a glimpse of the city and even Yarra Valley. You will float through some historic landmarks, enchanting landscapes, and iconic skyscrapers in the city balloon. When it comes to taking a ride to Yarra Valley, you will get mesmerized with the vineyards, farmlands, and orchards. Global Ballooning Australia tour operator offers the exotic balloon flights starting from the point located at Rochford Winery. By 35 miles southwest of this Yarra Valley, you can experience the city view by the balloon ride.
Monument Valley, Utah
The stark sandstone buttes glanced from the hot air balloon ride in the Monument Valley will leave you amazed. This stunning location appeared in historic western films like Windtalkers, Thelma & Louise, and Forrest Gump. Monument Valley lies on the border of the Arizona-Utah border and attracts many tourists. It leaves the tourists spellbound by the effect of the Rocky Mountains, windswept mesas, and wonderful gorges. You can also opt for a night stay near the launch point. Gliding over these glamorous formations with tour operators named Monument Valley Hot Air Balloon Rides will make you will alive.
Sossusvlei, Namibia
The alluring color of the sand will take you to seventh heaven! Namib Desert’s red and orange sand when witnessed from the balloon ride looks totally delightful. You will experience the beauty of constantly shifting sand dunes. Also, you will be able to pass through the smallest and biggest dunes of air by just relaxing in the balloon seat. There are tour operators like Namib Sky Balloon Safaris and Sossusvlei Lodge who can organize a one day trip for you. The ride will also take you over through the green grass covers of NamibRand Nature Reserve. Most interestingly, the ride will be of 3.5 hours where you will also be served with extravagant breakfast.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia
This is the most well-known landmark in Cambodia. It was constructed during the 12th century and established as a capital city of the Khmer Empire. It covers more than 500 acres of land which makes it “Planet’s largest religious monument” as well as UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is preserved very well and offers scenic landscapes surrounding it. Who will not want to take a hot air balloon ride over this captivating place? Also, Angkor Hot Air Balloon will provide you a supreme ride that will pass through the Siem Reap river giving a bountiful joy.
Other than these famous destinations, there are also quite a few popular festivals that occur seasonally like Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta at Mexico; Saga International Balloon Fiesta, Japan; Ferrara Balloons Festival, Italy and so on. So, plan your trip and live your dreams!
FAQ on Hot Air Balloon Rides
Q1: What should I wear for a hot air balloon ride?
A1: Dress in layers, as it can be cooler at higher altitudes than on the ground. Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes. It’s advisable to wear a hat to shield your head from the heat of the balloon’s burners.
Q2: How long does a typical hot air balloon ride last?
A2: Most flights last approximately one hour, but the entire experience, including setup and post-flight celebrations, can take around 3 to 4 hours.
Q3: Is it safe to ride in a hot air balloon?
A3: Yes, hot air ballooning is generally very safe, especially when conducted by experienced pilots and reputable companies that adhere to strict safety regulations.
Q4: Can children go on hot air balloon rides?
A4: Many operators have age and height restrictions for safety reasons, typically children must be at least 4 to 6 years old and tall enough to see over the basket.
Q5: Can I fly a hot air balloon if I’m afraid of heights?
A5: Fear of heights is common, and many find that the gentle movement of ballooning does not trigger this fear. However, it varies by individual.
Q6: How do hot air balloons stay aloft and navigate?
A6: Hot air balloons rise because the air inside the balloon is heated, making it lighter than the cooler air outside. Pilots can control the altitude by adjusting the temperature inside the balloon. Navigation is primarily at the mercy of the wind, but pilots can steer to a limited extent by finding different wind directions at different altitudes.
Q7: What is the best time of day for a hot air balloon ride?
A7: Balloon flights usually take place during the cooler hours after sunrise or before sunset when the winds are calmest and the air is most stable.
Q8: Can I take photos during the flight?
A8: Absolutely! Bring your camera or smartphone to capture the breathtaking views. Just make sure to have a strap or secure it so it doesn’t fall out of the basket.
Q9: Is there a weight limit for passengers?
A9: Yes, most hot air balloon operators have weight restrictions for passengers, which can vary. It’s important to check with your operator in advance.
Q10: What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my flight?
A10: Balloon rides are weather dependent. Operators will cancel the flight if conditions are unsafe, such as high winds or rain. Most companies will offer a reschedule or refund in this case.
Q11: Will I experience motion sickness during the ride?
A11: Hot air balloon rides are generally very smooth and don’t typically cause motion sickness. However, if you are prone to it, take precautions as you normally would.
Q12: How many people fit in the basket?
A12: Basket sizes vary, but most can accommodate anywhere from 2 to 16 passengers, depending on the size of the balloon.
Q13: What should I bring on the flight?
A13: Besides your camera, bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and water. Check with your operator if they allow bags in the basket.
Q14: Can I book a private hot air balloon ride?
A14: Yes, many companies offer private rides for couples or groups, which can be perfect for special occasions.
Q15: How can I prepare for my hot air balloon experience?
A15: Listen to the safety briefing from your pilot, ask any questions you might have, use the restroom before takeoff, and make sure your phone or camera is charged.
Enjoy your flight and the unique perspective that comes from gently drifting above the landscape!