What better way to celebrate love than a romantic ride on a hot air balloon overlooking incredible scenery? Top it off with a nice picnic and a bottle of bubbly, and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect Valentine’s Day. Have a look at some lovely spots to go hot air ballooning in South Africa.
1. Bill Harrop’s ‘Original’ Balloon Safaris, North West
Take a scenic ride and get a birds-eye view of the Magalies River Valley with Bill Harrop’s ‘Original’ Balloon Safaris.
Before your ride, check-in at the Clubhouse Pavilion and enjoy a steaming cup of tea or coffee with a biscuit or muffin while watching the crew prepare the balloons for flight. Rides last one hour and take off every morning, weather permitting. After landing, enjoy a glass of bubbly while watching the crew pack up the balloon, then return to the Clubhouse for breakfast and more bubbly.
Rates: From R2990 per person.
Contact: 083 457 3402
Address: R560, Skeerpoort, North West.
2. Air To Air Africa, Gauteng
Air to Air Africa offers a four-hour package filled with unforgettable experiences.
Flights take off at sunrise from Glenburn Lodge in the Cradle of Humankind, Muldersdrift. Enjoy a relaxing cup of tea or coffee before takeoff, and after landing, toast with some bubbly and indulge in a delicious breakfast. To commemorate the experience, you’ll also receive a certificate.
Rates: Call 084 602 3491 for pricing.
Address: Glenburn Lodge, Kromdraai Road, Muldersdrift, Johannesburg.
3. SA Encounter, Western Cape
SA Encounter offers more than just hot air balloon rides—they also provide tandem paragliding and cruises for a variety of romantic adventures.
After soaring over the Cape Winelands, enjoy breakfast and bubbly with your pilot. Flight duration is approximately one hour.
Rates: From R3500 per person.
Contact: 066 542 5394
Address: Joostenberg Farm, Stellenbosch.
4. HotAir, Multiple Locations
HotAir operates from multiple locations across South Africa, offering various packages. Their Weekday Savvy Saver is their most affordable package in Cape Town, though they frequently run specials.
Experience breathtaking landscapes, native fauna and flora, and exceptional food and wine. Post-flight, enjoy a farm-style breakfast with a side of bubbly.
Rates: From R2900 per person for the Savvy Saver package.
Contact: 072 955 5444
Address: Stellenbosch Brewing Company, Muldersvlei, Stellenbosch.
5. Sun Fun Africa Safaris, Gauteng
Sun Fun Africa Safaris specializes in romantic and special occasion hot air balloon rides, perfect for engagements, anniversaries, and birthdays.
Soar over the Magaliesburg Valley and admire breathtaking views from the treetops.
Rates: From R2600 per person for group flights.
Contact: 083 778 7813
Address: Sun Fun, Hekpoort, Gauteng.
6. Wineland Ballooning, Western Cape
Wineland Ballooning offers daily flights over the Berg River Valley near Paarl with majestic views of Table Mountain. On clear days, you might even spot the Cape of Good Hope.
After the ride, enjoy a relaxing indoor dinner date at their self-catering accommodation.
Rates: From R4900 per person.
Contact: 021 863 3192
Address: V&A Waterfront, Clock Tower Precinct, Cape Town.
7. Nova Hot Air Balloons, Western Cape
Nova Hot Air Balloons offers stable rides suitable for photographers and videographers.
Enjoy a hot drink and homemade South African rusks before takeoff. After landing, celebrate with a breakfast and bubbly session with the crew.
Rates: From R4300 per person.
Contact: 021 813 9438 / 082 899 6374
Address: Hangar C3 Mossel Bay Airport, Aalwyndal, Mossel Bay.
8. Hot Air Ballooning SA, Multiple Locations
With over 17 years of experience, Hot Air Ballooning SA offers flights over Maluti Mountain Range in Clarens, Vaal River, Parys’ Vredefort Dome, and Champagne Valley in the Drakensberg Mountains.
They also cater to special events upon request.
Rates: Contact 083 446 9423 for a quote.
Locations: Multiple across South Africa.
No matter which location you choose, a hot air balloon ride is a magical way to celebrate love. Book early to secure your spot for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day experience!
