20 Best Hot Air Balloon Rides in the World

Last Updated on July 22, 2024

Soaring over the landscapes of Cappadocia or the vineyards of Napa in a hot air balloon ride makes you feel like you’re drifting through a dream. Here’s our guide on the best hot air balloon rides in the world.

There’s something inherently magical about hot air balloon rides. Perhaps it’s the slow ascent into the sky, the silence punctuated only by the roar of the burner, or the bird’s-eye view. Seeing the world from above often gives a refreshing perspective: peaked mountains transform into jagged land masses under your feet and rivers meander around like snakes.

Atop a hot air balloon, it’s also easy to to see and feel the enormity of the world. Here’s my take (based on my own travels) on the best hot air balloon rides in the world.

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Best Hot Air Balloon Rides in the World

1. Cappadocia, Turkey

Cappadocia is one of the best places for hot air ballooning rides in the world thanks to its strangely unique landscape and favorable weather conditions. An expanse of sandy brown desert and limestone rock mountains, this area in Central Turkey features whimsical fairy chimneys and cave churches scattered amidst steep valleys and green olive groves.

Hot air ballooning in Cappadocia is a dreamy experience: floating above these magical rock outcrops at dawn and rising above the red canyons upon sunrise impresses even the hardened travelers. Book your hot air balloon ride here.

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2. Luxor, Egypt

If you’ve never been on a balloon before, this is one of the best places in the world to go hot air ballooning. The 1-hour ride lets you feast on views of the Valley of the Kings and Queens, the Nile River, and the surprisingly lush green fields of the West Bank.

I booked my hot air balloon ride here and highly recommend it. It was much cheaper than other hot air balloon rides I’ve taken, and the pilot was great and communicative.

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3. Maasai Mara, Kenya

As one of the best safari parks in Africa, Maasai Mara is a massive game reserve in Southwestern Kenya, most famed for the Great Migration that takes place here every year from July to October. Millions of zebras, gazelles and wildebeests travel long-distance through the park each year in search of water.

This is an exceptionally phenomenal sight, especially when seen from the air. If you are celebrating something special, hot air ballooning over the Maasai Mara is definitely a memorable experience. Prepare to spend around $450 for the experience of a lifetime. Book the experience here.

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4.  Napa Valley, U.S.

As one of the best wine regions in the world, California’s Napa Valley is a perfect getaway for the well-heeled traveler in search of good food, luxurious accommodations and a natural setting. Hot air ballooning over Napa is definitely one of the best things to do in Northern California.

Floating above the vineyards, the mishmash of olive groves and plunging valleys are spread out below your feet. Fields of yellow sunflowers and patches of brown earth create a beautiful palette of colors. After descending into a meadow of mustard and wild flowers, celebrate to a glass of champagne with your loved one. Book your Napa Valley hot air balloon ride here.

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5. Wadi Rum, Jordan

Also known as the Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum is a mishmash of rose-red sandy plains and jagged peaks in Southern Jordan. It has some of the world’s most unearthly landscapes: rugged sand stone rising from a sed of red sand. With so much to see and plenty of surprises at each corner, Wadi Rum is an excellent place for hot air ballooning.

At an altitude of 7,000 feet,  you’re treated to a jaw-dropping view of the vast desert and its peculiar rock formations, sand dunes and the occasional natural springs. Located close to the Israeli border, this is definitely one good spot to catch a glimpse of Israel and the Red Sea. Here are our recommended Wadi Rum experiences.

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6. Queenstown, New Zealand

Dubbed the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown packs a punch in terms of adrenaline-pumping activities. Located in the south-west of New Zealand’s South Island, Queenstown is built along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, a long Z-shaped lake formed by glacial processes.

Surrounded by awe-inspiring mountains and lakes, Queenstown features dramatic scenes straight out of the Lord of the Rings movie. Most people come to Queenstown to go paragliding  or bungee jumping — but if that’s not your cup of tea, then hot-air ballooning would be the best way to witness Queenstown’s natural beauty at a leisurely pace.

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7. The Outback, Australia

The Australian Outback can be hot, dry and brutal but its beauty is undeniable. Located right smack in the middle of Australia, the Great Red Center is more than just a desert. From a vantage point, you’ll be treated to a view of the red soil, the Ayers Rock and nearby Mount Olga.

Uluru or Ayers Rock is perhaps the most famous landmark in Australia and once here, it’s easy to see why. The 348m-tall sandstone formation is not only majestic but it also appears to change colors at different times of the day, glowing red at dawn and sunset.

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8. Bagan, Myanmar

Myanmar is one of the few remaining places in the world that steers clear of the well-trodden tourist trail and retains a sense of authenticity. The most visited area in Myanmar is Bagan, an ancient city in the Mandalay division. Located in the dry central plains along the eastern bank of the Ayeyarwady River, the ruins of Bagan were constructed between the 11th and 13th centuries, during which Bagan was the capital of the First Burmese Empire.

Atop the hot air balloon, you will float above the 5,000 pagodas of Bagan and taking in the serenity of the sunrise. Check out our list of best Bagan temples to visit. Note that hot air ballooning in Bagan is suspended during the rainy season (from the beginning of April to end of September). Book this hot-air balloon flight.

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9. Jaipur, India

Christened the “Pink City,” Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan is a breathtaking metropole with stunning stone temples. What’s even more beautiful is seeing these structures from above ground. A hot air balloon ride in Jaipur feels like a rendition of Minecraft, only that you can actually feel the breeze.

As you ascend above this vibrant city, you’ll see breathtaking sights like the iconic Hawa Mahal, the majestic Amber Fort, and the grand City Palace. Floating gently over these architectural marvels, the aerial view trumps any walking tour, providing an unmatched appreciation of the city’s splendor.

Beyond the urban treasures, the balloon drifts over rural villages and remote stone temples, revealing a different facet of this spectacular region. For a whimsical ride over the Pink City, I recommend you take this Jaipur balloon safari.

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10. Namib Desert, Namibia

One of the most unique ways to experience the stunning Namib Desert is from a hot air balloon. You’ll float above the vast plains of the desert, taking in the breathtaking scenery from above ground. The expansive desert has lately become one of the best places for hot air balloon rides.

One of the prime locations for this adventure is Sossusvlei, in the southernmost part of the Namib Desert. Here, the dunes are among the highest in the world but only feel like freckles of curry from above ground. As you glide above these majestic dunes at sunrise, you’ll witness them transform in the shifting light, unveiling the desert’s full glory. For this once-in-a-lifetime experience, I recommend you take this Namib Sky Balloon Safari. Check out our guide on the best things to do in Namibia.

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11. Albuquerque, U.S.

New Mexico’s Albuquerque has lately become one of the best places for hot air balloon rides in the world. For nine days every October, the city is the epicenter of the hot air ballooning world during the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. The event is the largest hot air balloon race and festival on the planet and features mass ascents with hundreds of balloons rising at once.

Even if you miss the fiesta, Albuquerque’s explosive landscape offers hot air balloon rides year-round. Also, companies like World Balloon provide flights, and the city’s typically sunny weather ensures an ideal climate for ballooning adventures. On my recent trip to the city, I booked this hot air balloon and highly recommend it.

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12. Serengeti, Tanzania

Taking a hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti is the epitome of wild adventure. As you lift off the ground in the crisp dawn air, the vast savannah stretches out beneath you. Herds of wildebeest and zebras graze in the morning mist and a pride of lions might be seen basking in the early sun.

The ride offers a unique vantage point, allowing you to witness the grand spectacle of nature’s theater from a bird’s-eye view. The most ideal time for a hot air balloon ride in the Serengeti is during the dry months from June to October. The window offers clear skies and unparalleled views of the sprawling savannah teeming with wildlife.

While balloon rides are also available during the rainy months of March, April, and May, these flights are more contingent on weather conditions. I took this Serengeti Balloon Safari in April of 2022 and it is still one of the my best hot air balloon rides.

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13. Tuscany, Italy

Drifting above Italy’s Tuscany region in a hot air balloon is one of the most romantic experiences imaginable. The region is known for its beautiful landscape of golden and green hills and medieval villages and castles. Waking up before dawn to take a sunrise flight is absolutely worth it, as you watch the landscape glow up with the rising sun.

Afterward, you’re treated to a local Tuscan breakfast featuring farm-fresh produce and freshly baked bread, along with a glass or two of Prosecco. It’s a breakfast you’ll remember forever, perfectly capping off an unforgettable journey through one of Italy’s most picturesque regions.

So, if you are looking to spice up your love life or want to pop the question, this is the place to do so. For an unforgettable experience, I recommend you take this adventurous hot air balloon flight from Chianti.

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14. Loire Valley, France

The concept of the hot air balloon was invented in France by Joseph and Étienne Montgolfier and the first flight ever took place in 1783. So, going back to the country that created the adventure was the logical move for me. And believe me, it was exceptionally magical.

Floating over medieval villages in the ultra-picturesque Loire Valley in France was an other-worldly thrill. The beautiful region is only two hours from Paris but offers a countryside vibe. With its winding river and lush green hills, Loire Valley is best viewed from a hot air balloon.

A balloon ride offers an incredible perspective of the stunning landscape and the gorgeous châteaux. The best time for a balloon ride here is during spring or summer when the fields are brightened with everything from sunflowers to rows of corn. For an unforgettable experience, I recommend you take this hot air balloon ride from Amboise.

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15. Teotihuacán, Mexico

Taking a hot air balloon ride over Teotihuacán is arguably one of the best things to do in Mexico City. Located about 30 miles outside of Mexico City, Teotihuacán was the largest pre-Columbian city in the Americas and has buildings dating back to 300 BCE.

Christened as the City of the Gods, Teotihuacán is known for its colossal pyramids. Seeing these temples from above is a surreal, once-in-a-lifetime experience. As you soar above these ruins, you’ll notice that the pyramids are lit by the rising sun which is truly stunning.

The hot air balloon rides come with various packages, including transfers, mariachi bands, and breakfast. But for the best experience, I recommend this Teotihuacán hot air balloon ride with optional bike or walking tour.

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16. Dubai, UAE

Soaring above the vast Arabian Desert at dawn with the rising sun casting a golden hue over the endless dunes is a scene straight out of a dream. As you gently float upwards in your hot air balloon, Dubai’s skyline recedes in the distance, replaced by the serene, unspoiled beauty of the desert. The occasional sighting of an elegant oryx or a caravan of camels adds a touch of magic to the experience.

The adventure begins before dawn. You’ll leave the city and head to the desert, where you’ll ascend into the sky just in time to witness the sunrise over the Hajar Mountains. Floating at 4,000 feet above the dunes, the serene desert landscape below is a breathtaking sight. After landing, vintage Land Rovers will transport you to a desert camp where the experience continues with a camel ride through the desert.

The adventure concludes with a delicious full breakfast at the camp. Due to the scorching summer heat, these balloon rides are only available from September to May. I took this Dubai Hot Air adventure and it was definitely the highlight of my trip to the city. In case you’re planning a trip to Dubai with kids, check out my Dubai family travel guide for tips on making the most of your visit.

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17. Bernese Oberland, Switzerland

Floating high above the majestic peaks of Bernese Oberland is an image that sticks with you for the rest of your life. As the hot air balloon gently ascends, you’ll be treated to a panoramic spectacle of snow-capped mountains, emerald-green valleys, and sparkling alpine lakes. Departing from the charming ski resort town of Gstaad, your adventure begins before dawn.

You’ll be able to see the sun’s first golden rays caressing the snow-capped peaks. From your lofty vantage point, the grandeur of the Alps unfolds before your eyes. Iconic peaks like Mont Blanc, the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau revel in this morning light.

The balloon rides which set off from Château-d’Oex, just 10 miles west of Gstaad, are year-round but are particularly enchanting in winter. The charming village also hosts the International Balloon Festival every January. For a taste of this whimsical winter adventure, I recommend you take Balloon Zeberli hot air day tours. If you love road trips, check out my 2-Week Switzerland Road Trip. On days 3 and 4, you can visit the beautiful Bernese Oberland.

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18. Angkor Wat, Cambodia

For a truly breathtaking perspective on Cambodia’s most iconic landmark, a hot air balloon ride over Angkor Wat is an experience not to be missed. Sprawling over 500 acres, Angkor Wat is the world’s largest religious monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dating back to the early 12^th century, when it was the Khmer Empire’s capital, this vast temple complex is remarkably well-preserved.

As you ascend in your balloon, the sprawling grandeur of Angkor Wat unfolds beneath you, bathed in the soft light of sunrise or the golden hues of sunset. It’s a panoramic view that’s bound to leave you in awe of both the monument’s majestic scale and its historical significance. I took this adventure from Siem Reap and it was magical and one of the best hot air balloon rides.

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19. Monument Valley, U.S.

A hot air balloon tour across Monument Valley is a breathtaking adventure that takes you to the heart of Utah’s iconic red rock wonderland. Floating effortlessly above the vast desert landscapes, canyons, and mesas, you gain a rare and unobstructed perspective of this awe-inspiring terrain.

The experience melds serenity with exhilaration, offering a unique vantage point that reveals the natural beauty of Monument Valley in a way that few ever get to see. For an adventure that promises to etch unforgettable memories, I recommend this guided tour from Phoenix. If you love road trips, check out my 2-Week Utah Road Trip. On day 6, we head to the amazing Monument Valley.

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20. Atacama Desert, Chile

Soaring above the Atacama Desert in a hot air balloon is like stepping into an otherworldly painting. The Chilean desert’s vast sands, dramatic mountain peaks, and bubbling geysers create a surreal landscape that’s even more breathtaking from the sky.

As you float gently over this arid expanse, the vibrant reds and oranges of the desert come alive, painting a vivid tapestry beneath you. From this lofty perch, you might even catch a glimpse of local wildlife, adding a touch of life to the otherwise serene and stark beauty of the desert below. I took this San Pedro de Atacama Adventure and loved every moment of it. If you’re planning to visit this amazing country, be sure to check out my guide, 2-Week Chile Itinerary, to see what you can expect and help you get prepared.

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Enjoy Your Trip to These Famous Hot Air Balloon Destinations!

Are you ready to explore the best places for hot air balloon rides? Hope you found my guide useful! Be sure to leave a comment below if you have any questions. Read more of my articles to get ideas for your next trip:

• Visiting Peru with Kids
• On Safari in Kenya
• Cool Things to do in Namibia
• Best Safari Parks in Africa
• Switzerland Road Trip
• Visiting Dubai with Kids
• Most Visited Countries in the World
• Weekend in San Francisco

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. I’ll get a small commission when you book anything through my links, at NO extra cost to you. I only recommend companies I have personally used and enjoyed.

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