Look down on the world from a whole new perspective from the basket of a hot air balloon. Watch the wildlife and scenery below as you cruise over the landscapes whilst taking it all in. Choose a ballooning adventure over a city for a new perspective or a balloon safari where you cruise silently over stunning wildlife and dramatic scenery. We hope our list inspires you to try a hot air balloon ride either on your next holiday or even over your local town!
7. Sossusvlei – Namibia, Southern Africa
A balloon ride here in Namibia will give you the opportunity to witness the animals and sand dunes, some up to 300 meters high, from safely above. The balloon trips in Namibia run from Sossusvlei, Swakopmund and Otjiwarongo. Sossusvlei is the largest operation and is situated on a private estate in the heart of the Namib Desert and the professional pilot provides informative commentary throughout the flight. Fly at dawn, gaze at the rust red dunes and birds of prey then enjoy a champagne breakfast against this amazing backdrop.
6. Jaipur – India, South Asia
The world famous city of Jaipur, also called the ‘Pink City’ is the stunning backdrop for a ballooning adventure. You actually fly over the city and can gaze down at the amazing colors of the buildings, forts and palaces. There are also other locations to fly over such as the village and lakes of Pushkar and fly over the famous tigers at Ranthambore, which is situated between the Aravalis and Vindhya Mountains.
5. Costa Rica – Central America
Costa Rica has firmly established itself on the adventure sports and activities map and also offers hot air balloon flights over the beautiful scenery. Close to the capital San Jose are two ballooning sites at Turrialba and near Arenal, which is an interesting volcanic region. Soar over lush jungles, sugarcane plantations, raging rivers and active volcanoes. If the balloon trip gives you an adrenaline rush why not also try the white water rafting on the rapids you have just passed over or horseback riding and off-road driving through the country.
4. Cappadocia – Turkey, Western Asia
Opt for a ballooning experience over the ancient region of Cappadocia, which is in central Anatolia. Discover a wonderful landscape nestled between the cities of Nevsehir, Kayseri and Nigde. You will see the volcanoes of Mt. Erciyes and Mt. Hasan among the eroded volcanic rock, which created bizarre shaped pillars in curious hues from pink, yellow and brown. You can fly all year round and see poppies in the spring, the flowers of summer, grapes in autumn and dustings of snow in winter. After your flight, stay in the area for local shopping and maybe a spot of trekking.
3. Barossa – South Australia, Oceania
Float in your balloon above the orderly rows of vineyards in the famous wine region of Barossa in South Australia. Watch the lush green foliage set against a backdrop of Australian bushland and if you take a balloon trip in the morning you can watch the mist over the vineyards. An evening balloon trip will give you the opportunity to watch the sun set before enjoying a glass of the famous wine from the area!
2. Hunter Valley – Australia, Oceania
Just two hours drive from Sydney is the Hunter Valley, which is perfect for a balloon trip. You will be see forests, vineyards and mountains as you glide over kangaroos and other wildlife. Australia is a popular choice for ballooning and other flights are offered over the Yarra Valley near Melbourne and in the remote red desert of Alice Springs.
1. Balloon Festival – Bristol, England, Western Europe
Every August, Bristol in the UK plays host to Europe largest balloon festival featuring mass balloon launches, pop events and arena performances. Watch the curious balloon shapes, catch up with your ballooning buddies and plan your next great adventure! There are also other ballooning events at Chambly in France, Catalunya in Spain, Albuquerque in USA and Fukuoka in Japan.
