"Hot Air Ballooning.....worth getting up early" Top 5 Page for this destination Alice Springs Things to Do Tip by 850prc

For many, many years, we've wanted to try hot air ballooning. Each time we got close to actually doing it, something would always go awry. Back in 2003, we were scuttled in Namibia by high winds.

Australia was the magic point for us. We finally had the opportunity to soar with the winds, and it was a blast! There's nothing like hot air ballooning. Gentle peace and intense excitement at the same time. BTW, see my warning tip about "the landing position for ballooners". : )

First of all, I assumed that it would be very, very windy. NOT TRUE. As you are sailing along in the wind, you don't notice any wind yourself. It's so very peaceful.

In Alice Springs, there are several operators who do hot air ballooning. And, there are many different packages. We did a champagne breakfast flight with Outback Ballooning. It consisted of a sunrise balloon flight, lasting approximately 45 minutes, and a wonderfully-prepared breakfast out in the bush, which featured champagne, fresh fruit, eggs, home baked breads, coffee, tea, juice and all sort of other good things. All in all, a most civilized way to start the day.

Also, you'll have the opportunity to "help" get the balloon ready for flight before dawn. If you go in winter, expect sub-freezing temperatures. And after the flight comes the hard part.....getting the darned balloon back into its little bag. It's kind of like overfilling a kitchen garbage bag on a much larger scale.

So, I'll end this tip before I break into a rendition of "Up, Up and Away".... If you've ever wanted to hot air balloon, Alice Springs will offer you the opportunity. Do it. DO IT. ; )

A note...we traveled with Outback Ballooning. But, we launched with and spent time talking to people who worked for Spinflex Ballooning, another outfit. They were very very nice and professional as well. So, I'd say that dealing with Spinflex would be just as rewarding, should you need to look to a provider other than Outback.

The cost?? Our breakfast tour was A$290 per person.

Address: THEY will pick YOU up at your hotel !
Directions: IF you travel with Outback, say hello to Pilot Frans and his somewhat-abused assistant Louise. : )
othercontact: sales@outbackballooning.com
Phone: 08/ 8952 8723
Website: http://www.outbackballooning.com.au