Imagine sailing high above the ground, breathing in the crisp air and treating yourself to views found nowhere else on the globe!
Here are 7 stunning hot air balloon adventures that will take you up, up and away and turn your ordinary holiday into an extraordinary one.
Cappadocia, Turkey
There’s no shortage of balloon rides in Turkey’s stunning Cappadocia region – and when visiting, it’s considered a must-do. Balloon journeys here mean incredible views of the fairy chimneys and pigeon-housed valleys, as well as the local vineyards.
Loire Valley, France
The Loire Valley gives travellers the chance to explore glorious castles and fortresses, not to mention gorgeous medieval villages and abbeys. And what better way to end a trip here than with a hot air balloon ride above it all? Balloon rides operate in the warm months, with two flights leaving each day (morning and evening).
Bagan, Myanmar
You’ll soar high over stupas and take in the river and mountain views with a hot air balloon ride in this ancient city. If you’re lucky and it’s a misty morning, the surreal sight of rooftops poking through the clouds will be unforgettable. Flights generally leave just after sunrise and include complimentary tea and coffee.
Monument Valley, U.S.
The Napa Valley and Lake Tahoe are commonly known as great places to hot air balloon in the U.S., but sailing over the red landscape of Monument Valley in Utah – with its mesas and monoliths – is really like nothing else. Many hot air balloon rides here combine your trip with a ground tour so that you can see the arches up close or learn more about Navajo life.
Gstaad, Switzerland
If you’re in Gstaad, you’d better be topping off your ski and snow trip with an alpine balloon ride! High-rise sights of the snow-capped Alps are hard to beat and a ride here will float you up around 12,000-15,000 feet. Balloons depart around sunrise and sunset throughout the winter season. Spectacular!
Siem Reap, Cambodia
The Siem Reap region of Cambodia is wildly popular, much in part thanks to Angkor Wat, but few partake in a hot air balloon ride when visiting. Morning and evening flights are available from 12/to March, and each lasts for around half an hour.
Serengeti, Tanzania
This one will take your breath away. Balloon safaris in the Serengeti National Park will take you over amazing plains and treat you to a bird’s-eye view of the animals below. Visiting during the Great Migration (May-June) is especially magnificent, so if you’re a balloon (or animal) lover, time your trip accordingly!