A Step-by-Step Guide to Your First Hot Air Balloon Ride
If you’ve ever dreamed of drifting peacefully above the world, watching the sunrise paint the sky in brilliant colors, then a hot air balloon ride is the perfect adventure. Whether you’re planning a romantic surprise, a bucket-list activity, or a family outing, here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can expect on your very first flight.
Booking Your Flight
The first step is to choose your location and book your adventure. In Melbourne, sunrise hot air balloon rides are especially popular because they offer breathtaking views of the city skyline, the Yarra River, and beyond. Be sure to check the season, weather conditions, and package options when booking.
💡 Tip: Weekend flights often fill up quickly, so book in advance to secure your spot.
The Early Morning Start
Hot air ballooning happens at dawn, when the air is calmest. This means an early start—usually around 4:00–5:00 AM, depending on the season. You’ll meet the crew at a designated location before heading to the launch site together.
Don’t worry if you’re not a morning person—the excitement (and the view!) makes it well worth it.
Preparing the Balloon
At the launch site, you’ll see the balloon being unfurled and inflated. This is an experience in itself: the burners roar, the fabric billows, and soon the balloon begins to take shape. Guests often help with setup, which makes the experience even more interactive.
Watching the massive balloon rise upright is the moment when you know—it’s really happening!
Takeoff
Climb into the basket and get ready for the smoothest lift-off you’ll ever experience. Unlike airplanes or helicopters, a hot air balloon ride has no sudden jolt or noise. It feels gentle, as though you’re simply floating up with the morning breeze.
Within moments, you’ll be looking down at the world waking up beneath you.
The Flight Experience
The ride usually lasts about one hour. During this time, you’ll enjoy panoramic views that change as the sun rises higher in the sky. From above, cities look like intricate maps, rivers twist like ribbons, and the horizon stretches endlessly.
The atmosphere is surprisingly peaceful. Except for the occasional whoosh of the burners, it’s quiet—you may even hear dogs barking or people talking far below. It’s a magical mix of tranquility and awe.
Landing
Every landing is a little different. Sometimes it’s smooth, other times the basket may tip slightly as it touches the ground—it’s all part of the fun! Your pilot will guide the balloon safely down, and the crew will be waiting to help.
Landing spots vary, depending on the wind direction. That unpredictability makes every flight unique.
After the Flight
Once you’re back on the ground, we provide an optional champagne breakfast, continuing the long-standing tradition of hot air ballooning. It’s the perfect way to celebrate your adventure—sharing stories with the pilot, taking photos, and reliving the highlights of your unforgettable morning in the sky.
What to Bring & Wear
Comfortable clothing (similar to what you’d wear for a light outdoor activity)
A hat and sunglasses to protect against the burners and morning sun
A camera or phone for photos (with a wrist strap for safety)
Layers, as mornings can be chilly but warm up quickly after sunrise
Why It’s Worth It
Your first hot air balloon ride is more than just a scenic experience—it’s a memory you’ll treasure forever. It’s the perfect blend of adventure and serenity, and it gives you a new perspective on the world below.
Whether you’re flying over a city like Melbourne or the open countryside, the feeling of drifting with the wind as the sun rises is truly unforgettable.
✨ Ready for your first hot air balloon adventure?
Book your hot air balloon ride today and experience the magic of sunrise from the sky.