Alice Springs Tours
Early Morning Ballooning in Alice Springs
5
LIKELY TO SELL OUT*

Early Morning Ballooning in Alice Springs

By Outback Ballooning
Recommended by 95% of travellers
95% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
About
Get amazing views of Alice Springs and the outback’s red center on this early-morning balloon ride. Book ahead of time to guarantee a spot on the balloon, which flies high above the rugged landscape for epic views and photo ops. Hear insightful commentary from your guide along the way. Back on the ground, refuel with light refreshments, including sparkling wine, before going about your full day in the outback.
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation

Ages 6-99, max of 44 per group
Duration: 4h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
More

Highlights
  • Choose a flight duration to suit your schedule and budget
  • Get epic views and photo ops of the red dirt outback as the sun rises
  • Insightful commentary from your balloon pilot and guide
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off makes for a hassle-free adventure

  • 30 or 60 minute hot air balloon flight (depending on option selected)
  • Light refreshments including sparkling wine and fruit juice
  • Hotel pickup and drop off
  • GST (Goods and Services Tax)
What's not included
  • Bookings made prior to 26 July 2022 do not include the $AUD30pp mandatory CASA Insurance Charge.

Roll out of bed for pickup at your Alice Springs hotel. Ride to the balloon launch site, where you can learn about the flight mechanics and safety considerations while watching the crew unroll the balloon in the predawn. Once in the basket, head high into the sky for the best possible views of the region as the sun illuminates the red dirt. Snap photos and listen to your guide's commentary on the history and environment; look out for native red kangaroos. There’s no better way to see the landscape without booking an expensive helicopter or plane tour. Back on the ground, refresh yourself with juice and sparkling wine before heading back to the hotel, a whole day in the outback ahead of you. A “balloon chase” option can be booked for those who’d like to join the tour, but don't actually want to go up in the balloon.

Start:Multiple pickup locations offered.
    Pickup details
    • - Private address pick ups are not always possible. Please contact us to discuss. - If you are staying out of town, not in local accommodation options, please select Crowne Plaza Lasseters as your meeting location. Parking here is free.
    Hotel pickup offered
    During checkout you will be able to select from the list of included hotels.
      End:This activity ends back at the meeting point.

        • Not wheelchair accessible
        • Near public transportation
        If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 26227_30_60FLT

        • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
        • On occasion, the 60 minute flight time may be two separate, sequential 30 minute flights taken one directly after the other with a short changeover in between the two flights, depending on operational restrictions. Passengers will be notified the day prior should this be the case on the day of their flight.
        • Child price applies to 6-14 years and must be accompanied by an adult.
        • Children 3-5 years are not recommended but considered on an individual basis.
        • Weather Conditions
        • Safety is our primary concern and if we are prevented from flying due to unsuitable weather conditions, passengers may either re-book for another day or receive a full refund. The pilot’s decision with regard to flying conditions is final.
        • Where possible, the balloon flight should always be booked for the first available day in the area to allow for re-booking in case of bad weather.
        • General Health
        • Physical fitness is not a requirement to enjoy a ballooning adventure, but passengers must be able to climb up and into the basket (approx. 1.2 metres in height) unaided using the basket foot holes and stand for the duration of the flight.
        • 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.
        • Illness and/or recent operations that may affect the person or other persons on the tour must be notified to Outback Ballooning in advance. Medication should be brought on the tour.
        • Not recommended for travellers with back problems
        • Not recommended for pregnant travellers
        • The packing up tasks at the end of the flight are optional and we would appreciate your assistance in these enjoyable activities. However, they do involve some lifting and participation is entirely voluntary. Passengers that are less able bodied are invited to stand back and take photos. Persons with medical conditions participating in the balloon flight and pack up activities do so at their own risk.
        • Any form of disablement must be discussed with Outback Ballooning prior to making a booking. Each person is considered on an individual basis.
        • No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
        • Most travellers can participate
        • The flight and carriage of any passenger will take place at the pilot’s discretion.
        • Sparkling Wine
        • Fruit juice
        • Selection of individually packaged muffins, slices and cookies
        • Cheese and biscuits
        • Fresh fruit
        • Menu subject to change without notice
        • This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
        • This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
        • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 44 travellers

        • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

        If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 26227_30_60FLT

        From
        AU$355.21
        per adult
        Select date and travellers
        Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more.

        Similar experiences

        Itinerary
        • Pass by
          MacDonnell Ranges
          Outback Ballooning
        About the operator
        Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
        • Outback Ballooning
          432
          Australia
          Joined in November 2009
        • Travel61366005390
          0 contributions
          5.0 of 5 bubbles
          A great experience...
          Well-organised trip where we saw the balloon set up, saw the sun rise over the outback, flew with captain Jason for about an hour and landed safely, then helped to stow the balloon. Great fun, just do it!!
          Written 20 November 2023
        • hinehua12
          0 contributions
          4.0 of 5 bubbles
          The experience was exciting, the views were breathtaking, and the flight was peaceful and felt safe with the pilot.
          The trip was well-organised and planneda. I enjoyed the early morning nibbles and champagne at the end of the flight. . I would recommend this excursion.
          Written 24 September 2023
        • Vexikekeni
          0 contributions
          5.0 of 5 bubbles
          Satisfied
          Great views, service & friendly staff, definitely worth the money and 4am wake up 😆 It’s definitely a must do when in Alice⭐️⭐️⭐️
          Written 23 September 2023
        • MelandGeo
          0 contributions
          5.0 of 5 bubbles
          Amazing Experience!!!
          This crew was top notch! Everything was in excellent condition. They were very professional. We saw kangaroos. The landscape was amazing as the sun came up. They provided champagne at the end, with a few light snacks. If you wish, you can pitch in and help the crew pack up the balloon. I got to go inside, which was so cool! All in all, you can not go wrong with this experience.
          Written 26 April 2023
        • noreens245
          0 contributions
          5.0 of 5 bubbles
          Beautiful views of the outback!
          This experience was a highlight on our trip to Australia! The company does a great job. There was just one thing that could have made it more comfortable for us. It would be nice if they could provide a small step stool to make it a little easier to get in and out. If you jump from the side of the basket when getting out, it is quite a drop.
          Written 22 March 2023
        • AmNoTr
          0 contributions
          5.0 of 5 bubbles
          Breathtaking experience!
          The whole experience, from the preparation of the balloon to helping packing it back together. It's an impressive experience to flow through the air and see the unique nature from above but stil up close.
          Written 14 March 2023
        • 643kirstic
          0 contributions
          5.0 of 5 bubbles
          Sunrise over Desert
          A magical experience over the Desert Landscspe with the MacDonnell Ranges as backdrop as the sun rises up. An amazing way to start your day. The staff where friendly knowledgeable and great hosts. I’d do it again for sure Thanks Outback Ballooning
          Written 19 October 2022
        • brucem569
          0 contributions
          5.0 of 5 bubbles
          Ballooning over the Outback
          My partner and I recently took a hot air balloon ride over Alice Springs. Having worked for several years in the role of driver/guide for a hot air ballooning company operating on the Gold Coast, I can confidently assess our flight experience. Pick up: the bus arrived at the scheduled time and we were welcomed by John our guide. It was only a short 20 minute drive to the launch site. John was friendly and entertaining which always helps settle the nerves of passengers who may be nervous about their flight. Loading: we were able to view the balloon inflation. I was impressed with the high level of passenger safety during what is the most dangerous part of the flight. Good segregation of passengers away from the danger area and well controlled loading. Flight: I judged our pilot Duncan was very confident having worked with a number of pilots. At no time did passengers feel uneasy. We flew at below 1,000 feet which allowed us to enjoy the spectacular scenery. After recent rain, the outback is so green and filled with wild flowers. Landing: due to a brisk breeze, we had a fast landing with a very slow layover after the basket came to a halt. Not unexpected and not concerning, in fact the 5 passengers and myself enjoyed the experience. Pack up: our balloon was not large and the pack up by passengers was quite easy and enjoyable. Refreshments: balloon rides are traditionally celebrated with a glass of champagne. Plenty of that and cheese and biscuits and other snacks. Overall opinion: a thoroughly professional and enjoyable experience you won't want to miss if you visit Alice Springs.
          Written 25 November 2021
        • noelleoreilly
          0 contributions
          5.0 of 5 bubbles
          Outstanding.
          Pilot duncan was fantastic and gave us a lot of local history. Nathan and bus driver were also very good and the whole tour was very well organised. A great once in a life time experience.
          Written 9 October 2021
        • RetiringnotShy
          0 contributions
          5.0 of 5 bubbles
          The only way to fly
          If you haven't been ballooning this is a great way to try it. Great team, loads of information and heaps of fun. If you have been ballooning you know it will be amazing
          Written 18 May 2021
        • bek1729
          0 contributions
          5.0 of 5 bubbles
          Bucket list tick
          Fantastic experience- it was a bucket list tick for us and we loved it. So peaceful and quiet floating in the breeze. A great trip
          Written 4 May 2021
        • Cruiser535787
          0 contributions
          5.0 of 5 bubbles
          One of our best experiences in the Alice
          Huge thanks to our pilot Duncan for a fabulous morning. We both felt very safe and Duncan put us at ease with his skills and knowledge. A must do experience
          Written 13 April 2021
        • Gino P
          0 contributions
          5.0 of 5 bubbles
          Superb early morning experience
          Duncan & Andy were great. Knowledgeable and funny. Always felt safe. So glad we did this. Also floated by the 137 planes ‘parked’ at the airport.
          Written 17 February 2021
        • M1437LRandrewr
          0 contributions
          5.0 of 5 bubbles
          Holiday
          This experience is and was totally wonderful the team were really well organised and gave easy instructions to follow .which made you feel very comfortable and safe
          Written 12 October 2020
        • Melissa H
          0 contributions
          5.0 of 5 bubbles
          Macdonnell sunrise ballooning
          Awesome experience with great friendly crew Loved it and would Highly recommend *****% stars from Me
          Written 14 October 2019
        See all 432 reviews
        These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

        Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

        Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

        Popular mentions

        We perform checks on reviews.
        Tripadvisor’s approach to reviews
        Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
        When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
        Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
        Learn more about our review moderation.
        5.0
        5.0 of 5 bubbles312 reviews
        Excellent
        276
        Very good
        23
        Average
        3
        Poor
        1
        Terrible
        9

        1.0 of 5 bubbles
        Nov 2020
        will never recommend this trip. We were really excited prior to the balloon ride which was a very early morning pick up from our accommodation. Arrived by mini bus to the destination where the balloon was being prepared..."all very excited".
        UP... up up up over half the journey the balloon ride was JUST clearing the tree tops. We asked about the wild life we were expecting to see (advertised on their website eg red kangaroos) the reply "highly unlikely we would see any" The ride lasted 45 minutes We were entertained by the sound of the burner from the balloon, some commentary from the tour guide (I was later informed his breath was really bad) and the tree tops. The food provided came in a brown paper bag cheese, crackers and a small packet cake "light snack" 2 bottles of wine shared amongst passengers. We had to ask could they open the 3rd bottle of wine. The anticipation of the balloon ride was shattered within minutes during flight time. Don't recommend spending this of amount of money for so little!
        Written 12 May 2021
        This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
        We are sorry to hear that you were disappointed. It is very hard to respond with particulars about your flight given we do not know your name or when you flew but as a weather dependent activity, our flight path is determined by the wind speed and direction which is different each morning. We fly within the first 1000 feet and again the height that we fly is determined by the weather. By its very nature a balloon does ascend and descend slowly but certainly would not be at ‘treetop’ level for the entire flight. Our website says that if you are lucky you will see kangaroos and most days we do but we have no control of the wildlife. I am not sure what you expected on your balloon flight but the sound of the burner is part of a balloon flight and what keeps the balloon in the air. Most people also enjoy the amazing early morning skies, the views of the MacDonnell Ranges and the vast desert landscape that we fly over. We do offer light refreshments (not breakfast) after the flight and due to COVID, have adapted to ensure the safety of our passengers when serving so it is pre-packaged snacks. The tradition of providing a glass of sparkling wine is to toast a successful flight and by law we are not actually permitted to serve more than 1-2 glasses, we are not a licenced venue.
        Written 15 May 2021
        This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

        Traveller 479
        41 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        This was a not to be missed experience!
        Despite a ‘false start’ on our chosen day due to wind, we were immediately given a second date and had a fantastic experience.
        From the on time pick up to the amazing flight over the outback, it is definitely an experience I would recommend.
        There was a great emphasis on safety which made me feel very safe. Jason our pilot was really informative and able to answer all our many questions.
        The flight was smooth and we got a great view of the outback and on landing there was, of course, champagne and ‘COVIDSAFE’ snacks.
        I would definitely recommend this flight for anyone who wants to see the outback from above and enjoy the serenity of flying in a balloon
        Written 15 September 2021
        This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
        Welcome to the world of ballooning and the weather, we always recommend where possible to have a backup date in case the weather decides not to play nicely with us. Thanks for the amazing review and glad that you enjoyed your morning with us, floating peacefully in a hot air balloon, is certainly the best way to see the outback.
        Written 21 September 2021
        This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

        Anne T
        3 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        June 2021 • Friends
        The hot air ballooning was a highlight of our trip to Uluru and Alice Springs. The whole experience was magical and the team involved were professional with everything running like clockwork. The sunrise over Alice Springs as we gently drifted upwards was amazing and our pilot obviously knew his stuff. Tour guide John even made packing up fun and was generous with the champagne afterwards. A highly recommended activity for anyone heading to Alice Springs
        Written 5 June 2021
        This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

        Dutch250
        Darwin, Australia1 contribution
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Mar 2021
        This was organised as a birthday present for my partner. The day we were meant to fly the weather had closed in due to storms in central Australia and we were unable to go. The team at Outback Ballooning consulted with us to ensure that my partner could still enjoy her birthday experience which it turned out to be. I would highly recommend this to anyone that wanted to see Alice Springs from above. Jason, Duncan and Marco as the faces of this operation are very informative and Marco's explanation at the end of the ballon ride as to why champagne is the drink of balloonists was very funny. This is a must for anybody that wants to do a ballon ride.
        Written 4 April 2021
        This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
        Thanks Isaac, storms are so rare in Alice and glad we could finally organise the birthday flight for your partner.
        Written 7 April 2021
        This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

        Michael O
        Sydney, Australia386 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        May 2021
        A really memorable experience, quite unlike any other flying I'd ever done. Because you float along with the breeze there is virtually no wind and no turbulence. It is completely peaceful - apart from the roar and the blast when the burners fire.

        Kerrie "you won't get me up in one of those things" chose the other option to ride along with the chase team. She says she had a ball bashing through the bush and was thoroughly entertained by Marco and his compatriots.

        A totally professional outfit in whom I had total trust.
        Written 24 May 2021
        This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

        Urs M
        Alice Springs, Australia4 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Apr 2021 • Family
        For my son Flynn‘s 18th birthday we went for a 30 minute early morning flight which due to wind conditions turn into an hour and 10 fantastic it was such a wonderful morning the pilot was great fantastic and very informative about all the local areas and of course the floor of champagne on the end made the event a very memorable moment. Three young Brisbane passengers created great energy in the balloon with Harry Potter quizzes and with many many laughters. I would recommend this flight to anyone to see the red centre from above is just wonderful thank you.
        Written 1 May 2021
        This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
        Thanks Urs, what a memorable way to celebrate Flynn's 18th birthday by coming on a balloon flight in your own backyard. We thank our locals for supporting our business during this difficult time and now being able to share the experience with visitors from other states is amazing.
        Written 5 May 2021
        This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

        Rosemary R
        Sydney, Australia14 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Apr 2021
        This was a bucket list tick for me. I've always wanted to try ballooning but been too afraid. It was actually not scary at all. It was a gentle rise and a wee bump on landing, nothing to worry about. The whole experience was seamless from the moment we were picked up at the hotel and all the staff were super nice and the pilot was experienced and calm. The view over the West McDonnell Ranges as the sun was rising was magical and seeing the vastness of our land was incredible. I really enjoyed it and it was an absolute highlight of our Red Centre holiday. When we landed we had a yummy Champagne breakfast with lots to eat in your own bag of goodies. I highly recommend Outback Ballooning
        Written 7 April 2021
        This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
        Great to hear that you overcame your fear and had a fabulous time with us. You are right, there is nothing better than floating gently in the breeze above our desert landscape especially at the moment when our Red Centre is so green. Thanks for your review.
        Written 7 April 2021
        This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

        Stephen C
        Darwin, Australia10 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Nov 2020
        Relaxed precision delivered by a team of absolute professionals.
        Some great stories relating to what was below us proved very informative.
        Super effort and this is a very well run operation which ch I would very highly recommend to anyone visiting Alice Springs. The sun rise was spectacular, and the snacks and bubblies rounded off a perfect morning.
        Written 8 November 2020
        This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
        Thanks Stephen for your glowing review. Our pilots and crew work hard and it is much appreciated when they get feedback like yours. We think our backyard is pretty special.
        Written 11 November 2020
        This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

        MEK54
        Goondiwindi, Australia32 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        June 2021
        I was a little hesitant but a very peaceful experience, with only the flame filling the balloon breaking the silence. A full experience from pickup to packing up of the balloon getting everybody involved in the dust and prickles. We landed with a bumpity bump but stayed upright in the end. We saw horses, kangaroos, buildings and an amazing sunrise over the Macdonnell Ranges.
        Written 9 August 2021
        This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
        Thanks for the review. You are not alone, there are many people who want to come for a flight but like you, are hesitant of the unknown. You describe it perfectly, ballooning is very calming and once you experienced that feeling then the nerves disappear. Helping the crew to pack up the balloon is fun but yes can be dusty work in the desert.
        Written 22 August 2021
        This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

        WNewman
        Alice Springs, Australia12 contributions
        5.0 of 5 bubbles
        Jan 2021
        We booked through an information centre who did not tell us about the $30 insurance every passenger had to pay on the day, directly to the company. This is in addition to what you pay at the time of the booking. Aside from this, the crew were great and the ensured everyone knew what was going on. The fight was smooth and the ground crew great at the end of the fight as we helped pack the balloon away. Would definitely recommend to anyone who has not done one before.
        Written 22 January 2021
        This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
        Thanks for the 5 star review and the great comments about our crew, much appreciated. A tip for those reading this and booking through a third party to always check the booking confirmation sent to you as it should clearly tell you whether you will need to pay the $30 mandatory aviation insurance charge on the day.
        Written 8 February 2021
        This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

        Showing results 1-10 of 304
        *Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

        Early Morning Ballooning in Alice Springs provided by Outback Ballooning

        All Alice Springs HotelsAlice Springs Hotel DealsLast Minute Hotels in Alice Springs
        All things to do in Alice Springs
        Day Trips in Alice SpringsSpas & Wellness in Alice Springs
        RestaurantsFlightsHoliday RentalsTravel StoriesCruisesRental Cars