Soaring above Namibia in a hot air balloon is akin to floating on a cloud.
As you drift silently over the endless sand dunes that cover the world-famous Namib Desert, with the curves and crests of the sands being swept by the winds below you, it can feel as though you are quite literally travelling out of this world.
Most hot air balloon trips take place just as the sun begins its ascent in the morning and there’s something undeniably magical about being able to watch the birth of a new day from this lofty vantage point.
A hot air balloon tour in Namibia is an experience that will leave you with such a deep and grateful appreciation for our incredible planet, and, like many others who have enjoyed such an experience, you are likely to never see the world in quite the same way ever again.
A Brief History of Hot Air Balloon Rides in Namibia
Some of the very first hot air balloon tours in Namibia were conducted by a company called Namib Sky Balloon Safaris. They had no idea if their concept would be one that tourists would be interested in, but they took the plunge and bought their first balloon in 1991. Many thought they were mad, but no one discouraged the dream, and after a long and sometimes heartbreaking couple of years, the team settled in Namibia and revolutionised the tourism industry.
As Namibia’s allure as a travel destination grew, so too did the desire for extraordinary experiences.
And hot air ballooning, with its promise of stunning vistas and the serene tranquillity that can only come from floating high above the ground, away from all the noise, captured the hearts of visitors and locals alike. It wasn’t long before these magical flights became a must-do for anyone seeking an unforgettable adventure (and it also wasn’t long before other companies also began to offer such experiences).
Today, hot air ballooning in Namibia is a thriving industry.
There is a multitude of companies giving guests a range of experiences, from intimate sunrise flights (perfect for that proposal) to multi-day expeditions. With each passing year, the technology and safety standards have advanced, ensuring that every passenger can relish this extraordinary experience, without a worry in the world.
What to Look for When Booking a Hot Air Balloon Tour in Namibia
Like all Namibia tours, who you book your holiday with really matters.
The right tour company will make sure that you are well taken care of, from the start of your trip right through to the last day. When it comes to booking a hot air balloon ride, your choice of travel company becomes even more important as you will want to go with a company that you can trust.
You should look for companies with a strong safety record, certified pilots, and glowing customer reviews. Certifications and affiliations with industry bodies should also be something to keep a lookout for.
When to book your Hot Air Balloon Tour
Timing is everything when it comes to hot air ballooning.
Early morning flights are ideal because those early mornings have the very best light conditions for taking photos. The early morning light is also a lot easier on the eyes, so you will be able to see more on the ground below as you float.
As for the best time of year, the cooler, drier months often provide more stable weather conditions for ballooning. Obviously, these sorts of experiences get put on hold when the weather decides to be a little bit wild.
When booking your tour, you should also think about your preferences for group size as well. Private tours will give you exclusivity, while group tours can create a rather fun and social atmosphere.
Additional Services and Inclusions
Some hot air balloon tours come with additional perks.
Many operators will offer things like champagne, gourmet breakfasts, and even high-quality professional photography to capture every special moment of your flight.
Some of these Namibia tours even include post-flight activities like game drives or cultural experiences, making it worth giving some extra thought to what you want from your holiday when comparing the available packages.
What to Expect from a Hot Air Balloon Namibia Tour
Although there is no denying that these tours can be an epic experience, they can be a little scary for some, especially if you are terrified of heights. To help you get more comfortable, should you have some height jitters, we have some prep tips and information that you can use to calm your nerves.
Pre-Flight Preparations
Your hot air balloon adventure will usually begin early in the morning.
You’ll typically be picked up from your accommodation and driven to the launch site. Before takeoff, you’ll receive a comprehensive safety briefing from your experienced pilot.
This is also a great opportunity to meet your fellow balloon enthusiasts, if you are doing a group tour, and to learn about the flight procedure.
The Flight Experience
As the first rays of sunlight paint the sky, you’ll watch in awe as the giant balloon is inflated.
Once ready, you’ll climb into the basket and feel the gentle lift-off. The sensation of floating effortlessly above the Namibian landscape is hard to put into words, but you can expect to feel weightless.
As you ascend higher, the panoramic views become increasingly more beautiful. The endlessness of the sand dunes, the play of light and shadow, and the occasional glimpse of wildlife create a scene of spectacular beauty that you will remember for the rest of your life.
While up in the air, keep your eyes peeled for desert animals like oryx, springbok, and even the elusive cheetah.
Post-Flight Activities
The landing is as gentle as the ascent, often followed by a celebratory glass of champagne. A delicious breakfast is typically served in the heart of the desert, providing a perfect end to an unforgettable experience. You’ll also have the opportunity to mingle with fellow passengers, share stories, and savour the memories of your flight.
How to Prepare for a Hot Air Balloon Namibia Tour
Because this is not an all-day kind of experience, you won’t need to do much to prepare, but here’s how you can make sure you are comfortable during the ride:
- Clothing and Gear
Namibia’s desert climate can be rather unpredictable, so dressing in layers can keep the heat (or the cold) at bay.
For your trip, you should pack comfortable clothing, a warm jacket or sweater, which will be a must to keep away that early morning chill, and a light shirt or t-shirt beneath. You can then take off the layers as the day warms up.
Although you will be standing in the balloon basket, you should wear comfortable footwear as you might need to walk on uneven terrain to get to and from the balloon.
And don’t forget to pack a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong desert sun.
- Health and Safety Precautions
If you suffer from motion sickness or have a fear of heights, you should take the time to discuss this with your tour operator beforehand. They can provide advice on how to manage these concerns.
You should also be sure that you are well-rested and hydrated before your flight so that you have a comfortable experience.
- What to Bring
A camera and binoculars are must-haves because you will want to be able to capture the spectacular scenery. While it’s tempting to bring other valuables, such as jewellery, it’s advisable to leave them securely at your accommodation to avoid any concerns. And, remember to bring identification as it might be required.
Where the Best Hot Air Balloon Tours Take Place in Namibia
There are quite a few stunning places in Namibia where you can enjoy the best hot air balloon tours. The destination you choose will determine the sights you see and the overall experience you will get to have.
Sossusvlei and Namib Desert
Soaring above the iconic red dunes of Sossusvlei is an experience like no other. As the first rays of sunlight illuminate the desert, the dunes transform into a beautiful palette of colours and the utter openness of the landscape is truly awe-inspiring.
Swakopmund and The Coastal Region
There is real magic to be felt when you are floating above a place where it meets the Atlantic Ocean.
The contrast between the golden sand dunes and the deep blue sea in the Swakopmund region is simply stunning. After your flight, you can partake in the coastal lifestyle with activities like dune boarding or quad biking.
Etosha National Park
For those who love wildlife and who want to see it from a different angle, a hot air balloon safari over Etosha National Park is like a dream come true.
As you float over the park, you can spot animals such as elephants, giraffes, and zebras in their natural habitat. This unique perspective also includes sights of beautiful landscapes, which include salt pans and lush bushlands.
Ready to experience Namibia from a whole new perspective?
Book your Namibia tour and hot air balloon adventure today!
