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Balloon Tours in Alice Springs

Today is the day. You’re up early, and the sun is rising on the Central Australian Outback. The journey to the launch site is in full flow, where the burners on the balloons are turned up to the max, and the basket is ready to board. You arrive, and it’s time to soar to the skies. 

What better way to start your day than with a flight over the glorious surrounds of the Australian Outback with views of the spectacular MacDonnell Ranges? This fun for all ages adventure is packed with blissful backdrops and sensational sights, including spinifex grasses, mulga scrub, cattle stations and you may even be lucky to spot some wildlife. And after a fun-filled flight, how about a glass of bubbly to bring the experience to a close? Lovely. 

Ballooning outback views

View from hot air balloon basket

Hot Air Balloon Tours

Outback Ballooning

With over 35 years of experience, Outback Ballooning sure knows their stuff when it comes to Alice Springs ballooning. Kick back, relax and take in the sights of the Australian Outback and MacDonnell Ranges, as you journey over spinifex grasses, mulga scrub and cattle stations. Whether it’s a 30 or 60-minute flight, it’s guaranteed to live long in the memory of everyone involved — as you immerse yourself in all things Central Australia. And how about a glass of bubbly or fruit juice to wet the whistle after the trip of a lifetime? Yes please. 

Outback Ballooning has a large fleet of balloons suitable for 2-4 people, up to 24 in one balloon, depending on number of bookings on the day. Exclusive charters are also available on request. 

Book with Outback Ballooning

 

Outback Ballooning bus

Outback Ballooning bus meeting with hot air balloon

Spinifex Ballooning

Start your day right with views of the spectacular MacDonnell Ranges. But this is no ordinary flight. This is 30 minutes of pure bliss. Float, glide and soar over the vast open spaces of the Central Australian Outback. Epic views, native wildlife and plenty of memories to share with the grandkids — what more could you want? I know! How about a glass of bubbly when you land. The only way to end your trip. 

Spinifex Ballooning flies in Alice Springs every day, weather permitting. And they can accommodate up to 16 people in their balloon.

Book with Spinifex Ballooning

Balloon in distance

Central Australia landscape from hot air balloon

Important Information

Here are a few pointers to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip:

Even though it’s a special event, you’ll want to avoid wearing anything fancy (particularly white) on your hot air balloon flight. It is an adventure after all. The most important thing is that you’re comfortable, which will mean wearing sensible closed toe shoes (trainers or walking boots), trousers or cargos, and a light jacket or hoodie. It’s wise to layer up too, so you’re prepared for any temperature changes. Sunglasses are also a must if you want protection against the sun.
Loose items (such as dangly jewellery or scarves) are not permitted on the flight.
Yes, your camera. Whether it’s a selfie with the Ranges or a snap of a hopping kangaroo, there are plenty of photo ops worthy of a place in your holiday photo album. Stay hydrated with a bottle of water too.
The pickup times from accommodation in Alice Springs is approximately 1 hour before first light. The timing of our tour is earlier in Summer and later in Winter.
Some places, like a private address or rural properties, are not included in our pickup schedule. If this occurs, we will advise you of the best meeting location.
A transfer to the airport or another tour is available on request.
Your booking information will tell you what time you need to be waiting for the bus outside your accommodation.
Safety is our primary concern and if we are prevented from flying due to unsuitable weather conditions passengers may either rebook to another day or receive a full refund if they have prepaid. The pilot’s decision with regard to safe flying conditions is final.
Physical fitness is not a requirement to enjoy a ballooning adventure, but passengers must be able to climb up and into the balloon basket (approx. 1.2 metres in height) unaided. There are foot holes, which act like a ladder. Everyone must stand upright for the duration of the flight, as there are no seats in the basket, but there are secure high sides to lean on.
Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) rules and regulations and Outback Ballooning’s policy prevent us from flying women who are over 12 weeks pregnant. Pregnancy must be advised in advance.
Any form of disablement must be discussed with Outback Ballooning prior to making a booking. Each person is considered on an individual basis.
Children 3-5 years are not recommended but considered on an individual basis. Children prices are based on age 6-16 years, with 17+ being an adult ticket.
There is no turbulence or vibration as the balloon moves with the wind. With eyes closed it is impossible to tell that you are flying. It is no colder in the air than on the ground. It is a fact it is often warmer with the burners overhead and the balloon flies above the night time low level cold air temperature inversion. Fear of heights is not generally a problem as the basket sides are high and secure and there is no vertical ‘face’ between the balloon and the ground. The sensation is similar to looking out of an aircraft window, but it is much bigger with no glass!
They will require, for flight manifest purposes, all passengers’ names and weights (in kilograms) – any weight above 100kg must be notified in advance prior to making a booking.

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