The Experience
-what’s the story?
A hot air balloon flight is a real journey of discovery and you’ll receive an equally unforgettable experience whenever and wherever you choose to fly. With a balloon to carry you, an experienced pilot to guide you and the Great Namib Desert Outdoors to amaze you, all you need is an appetite for adventure.
You can look forward to:
• greeting and passenger registration
• full pilot briefing
• invitation to help with the inflation of the balloon to prepare for take off
• around 45 minutes to an hour’s flight in a hot air balloon as part of a small group of passengers (up to 8)
• invitation to help with the balloon after landing
• champagne breakfast or soft drink
• retrieval service back to your accommodation in one of our vehicles
The nature of hot air balloons means no two flights are ever the same. So, where you’ll fly and what you’ll see, be it where the desert meets the sea, the desert only or the natural beauty of Namibia, is really up to the wind. One thing’s for sure though, this is a story you’ll be telling for years to come.
(note: we cannot guarantee that animals will be seen during flight)
Important information
when do we fly?
We schedule flights morning and some evenings, seven days a week during the Namibian ballooning season which is usually all year, but does vary in some areas. There are some times that are generally too poor for ballooning leading to a large number of flights being cancelled.
when don’t we fly?
Sometimes flights have to be cancelled because of adverse weather conditions such as high winds speeds and poor visibility. Our pilot bases his decisions on the latest forecasts from the local airport and he will always call flights “on” or “off” if it is possible to do so. We do not recommend that people book hotels or make other plans reliant on the balloon flight taking place for this reason.
what do I do if my flight is cancelled?
If your flight is cancelled, don’t worry because you can just book onto another flight.
what if I want to cancel my flight?
You can cancel a flight online up to seven days before at info.ballooning@gmail.com, or by phone. After these times you will need to attend the flight unless there are extenuating circumstances.
who can fly in a balloon?
To fly in a balloon you must be at least 10 years of age, and we ask that our younger passengers (under 16 years of age) are accompanied by a responsible adult of 18 years or over. Passengers should be able to see over the edge of the basket and are able to adopt the landing position. There is no upper age limit.
Am I fit to fly?
Flying in a balloon is a very serene experience while in the air, but it is an adventure activity in the great outdoors and sometimes on landing the basket can tip and/or drag along before coming to rest. This is perfectly normal: the balloon and basket are designed for your comfort and safety. In order to ensure the safety and enjoyment of everyone who flies, it is important that passengers are physically able to take part, that they can climb into the basket, stand unassisted for an hour and adopt the seated landing position, which will be explained by the pilot. They should also be sure they don’t have any pre-existing medical conditions which could be affected by the ballooning experience and to seek medical advice if unsure. We are unable to fly passengers who are pregnant.
How does it work?
it’s as easy as pie…in the sky
We like things to be nice and easy with no funny business. We think you are probably the same, so we’ve made it super straight forward for you.
pre-flight info
1) book your flight
Call our customer service team - Martin @ +264 81 835 0827 or Jessica @ +264 81 808 6743 or info.ballooning@gmail.com. You will receive a flight confirmation. You can either pay cash or on EFT system.
2) Pick Up
We will pick you up at your venue/ accommodation approximate check-in times are at 4:45am (unless stated otherwise)
Check-in times vary depending on the time of year and weather conditions as we have winter time and summer time.
does my weight matter?
We know that our passengers come in all shapes and sizes. According to aviation law, we have to record an accurate weight for every passenger and you will be asked for this when booking (sorry!). There are weight and space limitations with hot air balloons which we have to consider to ensure passengers’ comfort and safety
Other frequently asked questions...
how long is the flight?
About an hour, depending on prevailing weather conditions and suitability of landing sites, but you should allow at least four hours for the whole experience.
how high will we go?
As high as 3500ft - although this does vary from area to area and depends on airspace restrictions.
what should I wear?
Generally warm, comfortable layers are a good idea, plus a cap or other hat as the burners can get a bit warm. Depending on conditions, you may be walking so sensible shoes or trainers are essential. Usually passengers help with the inflation and deflation of the balloon so we recommend you wear clothes which you don’t mind getting a little dirty. No designer wear, flip-flops or high heels please, as we are unable to accept responsibility for damage.
can I bring a camera?
Yes, you can bring a camera, binoculars or camcorder as the balloon makes an excellent platform for photography. They must not be in metal cases and they are carried at your own risk.
what should I bring?
1) flight confirmation
2) appetite for adventure!
can my friends come and watch?
Friends and family are always welcome, but make sure they’re aware that there may not be toilets or other facilities at the launch site. We do not recommend that spectators try to follow the balloon by road for safety reasons.
license?
We are licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority and our pilot hold a full commercial balloon pilot’s licence.
what if I have more questions?
For more information please visit info.ballooning@gmail.com. So please call our lovely customer service team on +264 81 808 6743 /+264 81 835 0827 for a confidential chat.