5 Best Hot Air Balloon Rides in South Africa in 2025
Looking for a new and spectacular way to experience the beauty and majesty of South Africa?
Look no further than hot-air ballooning!
You’ll drift over breathtaking views of rolling hills, stunning mountains, and wide-open velds. Hot air ballooning in South Africa is the perfect way to explore this remarkable country.
Whether you have already explored the area or are seeing it for the first time, South Africa is the perfect destination for hot-air ballooning.
If you don’t have time to read further –
the Best Hot Air Balloon Ride in
South Africa is
The Epic Wildlife Balloon Safari
⭐️ With a perfect 5 star rating!
With its diverse and breathtaking scenery, you will experience a sense of freedom like never before as you drift peacefully through the sky.
It’s the perfect way for honeymooners, adventurers, families…for YOU to get the ultimate perspective of a magical land.
So if you are ready to embark on an unforgettable journey, take to the skies on an unforgettable hot air balloon flight in South Africa.
At a Glance: Best South Africa Hot Air Balloon Rides
Best Hot Air Balloon Rides in South Africa
Hot air ballooning isn’t offered everywhere in South Africa, and not all rides are created equal. Read on for the best hot air balloon flights in South Africa.
Learn where to find them, how much they cost, and what you get for your money.
Fun Fact: Because a hot air balloon is not propelled, but is simply drifting with the air currents, passengers feel no breeze at all, as they are moving at the same speed as the wind. No need to worry about your lovely locks!
1. Epic Wildlife Balloon Safari
⭐️RATED: 5 out of 5 stars (32 reviews) | 🕒 RIDE LENGTH: One hour | ✅ Book it!
Why this Balloon Ride? This amazing balloon safari takes place over several game reserves, as well as the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site. It doesn’t get better!
This Epic Wildlife Balloon Safari includes:
- a one-hour balloon flight
- Pre-flight coffee and tea
- sparkling wine and orange juice
- a full buffet-style breakfast
- flight certificates presented by your pilot
It’s the perfect place for your next hot air balloon ride. You’ll see a big, beautiful part of the region, and may spot four of the “Big Five” in one fell swoop.
This hot air balloon safari also gives you access to incredible photo opportunities. Best of all, you won’t go hungry—you’ll have a delicious buffet breakfast and drinks to enjoy.
Meeting point: At the Kloofzicht Lodge and Spa on Kromdraai Road, Krugersdorp, in Gauteng province. Approx. 1 hour from Johannesburg Airport.
Length of entire experience: Approximately 4 hours
2. Early Morning Balloon Safari From Magaliesberg
⭐️ RATED: 5 out of 5 (376 reviews) | 🕒 RIDE LENGTH: 1 hour | ✅ Book it!
Why this balloon ride? You get to watch the sun wake up over the Magaliesberg and the Cradle of Humankind below as you sip decadent, pre-dawn champagne. Great bang for your buck!
What’s included in this early morning balloon safari:
- a one-hour balloon flight
- pickup/dropoff at your lodging if you request this option
- champagne
- breakfast
- a personal commentary during your balloon safari
If this sounds too good to be true, join Bill Harrop’s Original Balloon Safaris!
This highly rated, unique tour lets you enjoy breathtaking aerial views of these stunning natural wonders.
As you float through the sky, sipping champagne and relishing the cool morning air against your face, you’ll be treated to an informative commentary from your guide.
You’ll have plenty of time to take amazing photos to help you remember your magical balloon safari.
After touching down, a delicious breakfast is included as a sweet finishing touch to this unforgettable experience.
Meeting point: Skeerpoort, North West province
Length of the entire experience: Approximately 4 hours
Rave from past guest:
“The entire experience from the moment you arrive to park was so incredibly welcoming. They are so professional and organized. Our pilot, Nick was professional and funny and made the while trip something to remember for ever…..highly recommend.”
– Paul (see more reviews)
3. Pilanesberg National Park/Sun City Hot Air Balloon Safari
⭐️ RATED: 4.9 out of 5 | 🕒 RIDE LENGTH: one hour | ✅ Book It!
Why this balloon ride? Pilanesberg is one of the best spots to see a variety of wildlife from the air! Everything’s included – no annoying hidden costs!
The Pilanesberg National Park Balloon Safari includes:
- a one-hour balloon flight
- pickup/dropoff at your hotel or at the Bakubung Gate of the Park
- delicious English breakfast at a private lodge post-flight
- sparkling wine and orange juice to celebrate post-flight
- a “First Flight” certificate signed by your pilot
The Pilanesberg National Park is an incredible place to experience the natural bounty of nature from a unique perspective.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable way to observe lions, giraffes, and other fascinating wildlife, then consider booking this balloon flight over scenic Pilanesberg.
Meeting Point: You can be picked up from your hotel at Sun City Resort or from lodges in Pilanesberg (except the Black Rhino Lodge). Also from the Bakung Gate of Pilanesberg Park.
Length of Entire Experience: approximately 4 hours
Rave from past guest:
“Well organised, cheerful and skilful staff, ensuring that we got an unforgettable experience. Amazing views – even the landing was exciting!“
– Get your Guide Guest (see more reviews)
4. An Exclusive Safari Flight for Two
⭐️ RATED: 4.5 out of 5 | 🕒 RIDE LENGTH: one hour | ✅ Book It!
Why this balloon ride? This is an incredibly romantic adventure in one of the most amazing countries in the world!
What’s included:
- approx 1-hour flight
- tea and coffee served pre-flight
- sparkling wine and orange juice
- full buffet-style breakfast
- flight certificates presented to you by your pilot
Whether you’re looking for a fun and romantic activity for you and your SO, a unique way to treat a loved one, or just a magnificent private moment, this exclusive balloon ride in South Africa for two is IT.
This balloon safari offers you both a distinctive and exciting way to explore the diverse wildlife of the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site.
Set against rolling hills, grasslands, and winding rivers, this hot air balloon ride takes you over an abundance of wildlife, including many members of the Big Five.
Just for the two of you.
Meeting point: At the Kloofzicht Lodge and Spa on Kromdraai Road, Krugersdorp, in Gauteng province. Approx. 1 hour from Johannesburg Airport.
Length of entire experience: approximately 4 hours
Rave from past guest:
“Great experience for the couple looking to have a romantic flight on their own. Organisation and communication of arrangements was efficient, with all the staff, especially the pilot, being friendly and courteous. Good value for money if looking for a more personal experience.
– Tripadvisor Guest (see more reviews)
5. The Ultimate: Balloon and Wine-Tasting Private Tour
⭐️ RATED: New Tour! | 🕒 TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours | ✅ Book It!
Why this balloon ride? Combine a balloon ride over wine country with wine tasting and a visit to the Drakenstein Correctional Centre. Everything’s included!
What’s included:
- your multi-leg hot air balloon ride
- Pickup/dropoff upon request, and all ground transportation
- all wine tastings
- bottled water
This hot air balloon ride in South Africa gives you the opportunity to defy gravity. You’ll hover over the Stellenbosch Winelands at the mercy of the wind.
Meet up right in Cape Town, and take a multi-leg tour that lets you taste several of the famous wines of the region. You’ll get to pair them with chocolate, and sample treats from local bistros.
Wine stops include Stellenbosch, the Lanzeric Estate, Delaire Graff Estates, and the excellent Dieu Donne Winery.
You’ll also get to visit the Drakenstein Correctional Centre, where Nelson Mandela spent time for his campaigns against apartheid.
Meeting point: the Victoria and Alfred Hotel on the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town
Length of entire experience: Approximately 10 hours
What to Take on Your Hot Balloon Ride in South Africa
Hot air balloon rides in South Africa are surreal and often once-in-a-lifetime experiences. In order to help you enjoy it to the absolute fullest, I suggest you bring these things:
- comfortable footwear, as you’ll be standing the entire time you’re on the balloon
- a hat and sunscreen
- a camera! Consider a GoPro, so you can ooh and aah over the stunning sights, and capture everything below at the same time
- remember, you’ll be high in the sky, and it can be cool up there. Be sure to bring a jacket or sweater, especially if it’s winter in South Africa.
Not allowed: Smoking!
Hot Air Balloon Rides in South Africa: FAQs
How much does a hot air balloon ride cost?
The cost of a hot air balloon in South Africa depends on the trip you choose. Prices here range from US$156 or R2821,39 to around US$1125, or R20347. You can even add one to an all-inclusive resort stay.
These can be quite a bargain considering that a fairly basic hot air balloon safari in Tanzania can cost as much as US$600, or R10852!
How much is a hot air balloon?
If you love your experience so much that you decide to purchase your own hot air balloon, it won’t be cheap.
You will pay anywhere from US$20,000 for a small balloon, to upwards of US$100,000 for a large balloon that can be used commercially. This is about R361717,00 to R1808583,00 in South Africa.
Is there a hot air balloon in Cape Town?
Yes! Sort of. While not right in Cape Town, there is a great hot air balloon ride that you can meet up with at the entrance to a farm called Klein Joostenberg, about 50 km, or 30 miles, outside Cape Town.
Enjoy sparkling wine and orange juice on your flight, and a hot breakfast following your flight. Just follow this link!
Is there a weight limit for hot air balloons in South Africa?
Yes, there is a weight limit. A broadly general limit is 454 kg, or 1000 lbs. However, the weight limit depends on many factors such as the size of the balloon and the basket, weather conditions at the time of the flight, plus several others.
Are hot air balloon rides worth it?
Absolutely! There’s no experience like floating high over the earth without anything in the way of the unbelievable views. And South Africa is an affordable place to give it a try!
Can dogs go in hot air balloons?
No. Most hot air balloon operators have strict no-pet policies. These rules usually pertain to service and emotional support dogs, as well. If you’d like to take your pup along, there’s no harm in asking, but don’t get your hopes up!
Are hot air balloon rides safe?
According to FAA data, hot air balloon rides are the safest form of air travel. They are rarely involved in accidents, and are safer than riding in a car!
Summing It Up: Hot Air Balloons in South Africa!
There’s nothing more serene and exciting at the same time than drifting high over Africa. And if you can catch the sunrise while you’re up there, it’s a sight you can’t even imagine.
If you have the opportunity to check this dream off your bucket list, I strongly encourage you to take it! South Africa has some of the lower prices in Africa for hot air ballooning.
A basic ride in Tanzania, for example, is very hard to find for less than US$600, or R10,852. Just one more reason to jump at any chance for hot air balloon rides in South Africa. You’ll never forget it.
While you’re in South Africa, don’t miss out on any of the extraordinary things there are to see. Check out 14 Reasons to Visit South Africa for details.
And if diving is your thing, there are some wonders in store for you! I’ve got you covered right here.
Happy travels!
While You’re in South Africa, check out these articles:
• Penguin Beach South Africa: THE Place to See Penguins in Their Natural Habitats
• Best Whale Watching in Hermanus
• The Best Dive Sites in South Africa
• 98 Amazing Things to Know About Southern Africa
• Find Your Dream Destination in Africa
