Airborne Adventures Africa

Ballooning is the oldest form of manned flight, its the safest form of flight, it is the most pointless.

I should qualify that, when scientists first took to the skies they took scientific instruments and began  adding detail to their understanding of the atmosphere.

Today the balloon is a magical slow moving platform from which to view our world. Its probably not unlike being on a flying carpet (If anyone knows what a flying carpets like to fly then please email)

We fly principally on the edge of the Drakensberg mountains in the South East of South Africa just inland from Durban. Take off is from a site in or around the Kamberg Valley and within sight of Giants Castle.

The Kingdom of Shaka Zulu, Kwa Zulu Natal

Flights are also available in Gauteng, Mpumulanga, Kenya and Namibia.

The following information works for all hot air balloon rides.

You will meet us approx 30 minutes before sunrise at your allotted launch site. At this point your pilot will give you a safety brief. Once the balloon is heated and your in! You will enjoy a flight of around an hour. After helping pack the balloon you will return to a location close to the take off point for an Alfresco breakfast and Champagne.

WHAT DO I WEAR?

Casual outdoor clothes as if you are going for a walk in the country. Flat shoes, or even better Wellington's or walking boots, especially in Summer and Autumn, when fields may be damp. Temperatures in the air are similar to those on the ground.

IS THERE AN AGE LIMIT?

We have no upper age limit but ballooning is an outdoor sport requiring a degree of agility. We recommend that people should be fit enough to climb in and out of the basket and to stand for about an hour. We use partitioned baskets specially   designed to ensure safety, comfort and a superb view. They are about 42 inches (1.1 metres) high, and have footholds to assist entry.  Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult on the flight and should be tall enough to see over the basket sides!

WHAT TIME OF DAY DO WE MEET?

Balloon flights are made early morning. Expect to meet 30 minutes before sunrise itself. You will be informed of the meeting time when you make your booking.   

WHAT IS GOOD BALLOONING WEATHER?

For a successful flight we require light winds, no rain and good visibility. Should we have to cancel your flight at short notice for reasons such as bad weather, we reschedule your flight as soon as possible to suit your timetable.

 HOW FAR AHEAD SHOULD WE BOOK?

We usually recommend about two weeks notice if you wish to book a specific date. It can be less if you are not restricted to weekends. Please telephone us to  check availability.

We prefer winds of less  than 10 knots at the surface and no rain