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30 Minute Scenic Hot Air Balloon Flight including Sparkling Wine
This half hour flight over the vibrant red Australian outback provides a unique insight into the rugged terrain that makes up Australia's iconic red centre.
What to expect
Experience the breathtaking feeling of floating silently above the Outback as the sun slowly rises over the desert on this awe inspiring ballooning adventure.
Journey to the launch site in the cool pre dawn darkness and begin the ascent just as the morning light begins to illuminate the rugged MacDonnell Ranges. Float gently across the vast expanse of the Central Australian outback keeping an eye out for native wildlife including the iconic red kangaroo and gain an appreciation of the remoteness of the area as the balloon glides across the landscape.
After landing, passengers may become involved in assisting the crew as they pack the nylon balloon away or may prefer to take photographs, the choice is theirs.
At the ballooning landing site, there is time to enjoy the desert tranquility as light refreshments accompanied by Australian sparkling wine and fruit juice are served. There is an opportunity to purchase ballooning souvenirs and a commemorative flight certificate is given to all participants.
What's included
- 30 Minute Hot Air Balloon Flight over Alice Springs
- Enjoy a light refreshments accompanied by sparkling wine and tropical fruit juice
- Commemorative Flight Certificate
- Return transfers from most accommodation properties in Alice Springs
- Civil Aviation Safety Authority Insurance
Visit date
Select the date you'd like to visit to check ticket availability.
How It Works
There is no turbulence or vibration as the balloon moves with the wind. With eyes closed it is impossible to tell that you are flying. It is no colder in the air than on the ground. It is a fact it is often warmer with the burners overhead and the balloon flies above the night time low level cold air temperature inversion. Fear of heights is not generally a problem as the basket sides are high and secure and there is no vertical 'face' between the balloon and the ground. The sensation is similar to looking out of an aircraft window, but it is much bigger with no glass!
Refreshments
After landing, Outback Ballooning has designed its program to allow for a unique opportunity to experience the Australian bush. Most of our landings are in the desert kilometres away from the nearest road. There is no traffic, no other people and no noise. The perfect place to enjoy a glass of sparkling Australian wine or fruit juice accompanied by a small selection of individually wrapped snacks before re-boarding the bus to return to "town". Dietary requirements on request.
Time
- The pickup times from accommodation in Alice Springs is approximately 1 hour before first light. The timing of our tour is earlier in Summer and later in Winter.
- Some places, like private address or rural properties, are not included in our pickup schedule. If this occurs, we will advise you of the best meeting location.
- Tour does not operate 25 December, 26 December or 1 January.
Duration
- Passengers should allow up to 4 hours in total with Outback Ballooning
- The flight distance will typically be between 10 and 20 kilometres. The balloon flight takes place approximately 15 kilometres to the south of Alice Springs, adjacent to the MacDonnell Ranges and over the historic Owen Springs Cattle Station
Transfers
- Transfers (at the end of tour) to the airport or other tours are available on request
- This is not a self drive tour
Hotel Pickup
- Prior to completing your purchase, enter your hotel name in the 'Add Booking Notes' section of the shopping cart. Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a confirmation tour voucher with complete tour operator details. You will be required to contact the tour operator the day prior to your flight to reconfirm your hotel pick up time
- The times are an INDICATION only and vary considerably throughout the year. The pickup times start from 4:15am in summer and from 5:45am in winter. Please contact our office for assistance with tour timings.
What To Bring
- Due to the sometimes dusty conditions, it is advisable not to wear light coloured clothing
- Long pants and a hat or cap are recommended and enclosed flat heel shoes are essential
- In winter (May to September), warm clothing may be necessary as the temperature has been known to drop below 0 degrees. You will be no colder in the balloon than on the ground
- Loose items such as dangling jewellery and scarves are not permitted once passengers reach the launch site and disembark from the bus
- Don't forget to bring your camera / phone / GoPro to capture this amazing adventure
