The countdown is on to the Winter Fun Flights 2026, taking place from 17 to 19 July at Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris, and we’re thrilled to announce a fantastic selection of prizes that will be up for grabs throughout the weekend.

While the Winter Fun Flights are all about celebrating the spirit of hot air ballooning, friendly competition and lifelong friendships, our generous sponsors have helped make this year’s event even more memorable with an exciting range of prizes and experiences.

A Weekend of Rewards

Participants will have the opportunity to win a variety of prizes, including:

• A two-night stay for two at the beautiful SiriMiri Cottage in Dullstroom.
• Overnight experiences at the Indaba Hotel, including dinner at Chiefs Boma and breakfast at Epsom Restaurant.
• Gin School Masterclass experiences for two.
• Wine and Chocolate Pairing experiences.
• Mugg & Bean Hartbeespoort vouchers.
• Vovo Telo Bakery & Café Hartbeespoort vouchers.
• DJA Aviation Insurance gift bags.
• Weekend gas sponsorship and several surprise spot prizes.

More Than a Competition

Although prizes add an extra element of excitement, the true reward is the opportunity for pilots to spend the weekend doing what they love most: flying with friends, testing their skills through a series of fun competition tasks, and celebrating the remarkable camaraderie that has always been part of the ballooning community.

As Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris celebrates 45 years of ballooning, the Winter Fun Flights continue to honour the friendships, traditions and passion that have shaped the sport over the decades.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Events like the Winter Fun Flights would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors.

We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who has contributed prizes and experiences for this year’s event. Your support helps make the weekend even more special for the pilots and crews who continue to keep the spirit of ballooning alive.

We look forward to welcoming everyone to the Magalies River Valley for what promises to be an unforgettable weekend of flying, friendship and fun.

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to welcoming you on board.

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Winter Fun Flights 2026 returns to Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris from 17 to 19 July 2026, bringing together experienced hot air balloon pilots for a weekend of friendly competition, flying skills and shared memories. While our guests know us for unforgettable sunrise balloon safaris over the Magalies River Valley, this special annual gathering offers a rare behind the scenes glimpse into the passion and camaraderie that have shaped South African ballooning for decades.

Most people know us for creating unforgettable sunrise balloon safaris over the beautiful Magalies River Valley. What many don’t realise is that, every now and then, the people who spend their lives taking others flying also enjoy flying purely for themselves.

From 17 to 19 July 2026, Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris will once again host our annual Winter Fun Flights, a special weekend where experienced balloon pilots gather to enjoy friendly competition, sharpen their skills, and celebrate the camaraderie that has made hot air ballooning such a remarkable community.

Winter Fun Flights 2026: More Than Just Flying

Unlike a commercial balloon safari, these flights are all about precision, teamwork and a little friendly rivalry.

Throughout the weekend, pilots will take part in a series of competition tasks that test their planning, navigation and balloon handling skills. Every flight presents a different challenge, with points awarded for each task and overall winners crowned at the end of the weekend.

Of course, while everyone enjoys the competitive spirit, the real prize is the opportunity to fly alongside fellow balloonists who share the same passion for lighter than air aviation.

A Celebration of Ballooning Heritage

The 2026 Winter Fun Flights are especially meaningful as Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris celebrates 45 years of introducing guests from around the world to the magic of hot air ballooning.

Many of the pilots participating have spent decades in the sport. Some have flown together for years, while others have crossed paths at ballooning events throughout South Africa and beyond. The weekend is an opportunity to reconnect, share experiences, and celebrate the friendships built through countless sunrise launches.

Saturday’s gathering at the Clubhouse will be filled with stories from years gone by, historic photographs, old videos and plenty of laughter as pilots, crew and friends reminisce about the early days of ballooning.

Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris operates under the regulations of the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA).

Meet the Pilots

This year’s confirmed participants include:

• Dave MacGregor
• Ian Schilz
• Eugene Schilz
• Felicity Clegg
• Dale de Klerk
• Juandré Janse van Vuuren
• Hein van der Merwe
• …and more

Together, they represent an incredible wealth of ballooning knowledge and experience, helping to preserve the traditions and professionalism that have defined ballooning in South Africa for generations.

Our Guests Can Enjoy the Spectacle Too

Although the Winter Fun Flights are a private gathering for invited pilots, our commercial sunrise balloon safaris continue as normal throughout the weekend.

Guests joining us for a sunrise flight may be treated to the rare sight of several colourful balloons sharing the Magalies River Valley skies, making an already unforgettable experience even more spectacular.

Whether you’re flying with us or simply following the event online, we look forward to sharing highlights, photographs and stories from what promises to be another memorable Winter Fun Flights weekend.

Here’s to great flying, good friends, and another chapter in the story of Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris.

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to welcoming you on board.

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Hot air balloon rides in South Africa offer one of the country’s most unforgettable travel experiences. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a unique sunrise adventure, Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris has been creating lifelong memories since 1981.

Earlier this month, we received a heartfelt email from Germany.

While sorting through old photographs, Margit stumbled across pictures from a hot air balloon flight she had taken with Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris during the early 1980s. Instantly, the memories came flooding back.

“It´s been a wonderful experience of my lifetime.”

Her words reminded us of something very special.

For 45 years, thousands of guests have watched the sun rise over the Magaliesberg from the basket of one of our balloons. Some experienced it only a few weeks ago. Others, like Margit, still remember their flight more than four decades later.

As we celebrate 45 years of creating unforgettable sunrise experiences, it’s fascinating to look back at how much has changed, and how much has stayed exactly the same.

A Young Bill Harrop and the Early Days

When Bill Harrop first introduced commercial hot air balloon rides in South Africa in 1981, ballooning was still relatively unknown in the country.

There were no smartphones, no GPS navigation, and certainly no social media.

Weather forecasts were far less sophisticated than they are today, communication relied heavily on landline telephones, and many operational decisions came from years of experience and careful observation of the skies.

Guests arrived carrying film cameras rather than mobile phones, hoping that their roll of 36 photographs would capture the magic of the morning.

The operation itself was much smaller, but the dream was the same: to introduce people to the incredible peace and beauty of floating silently above the Magaliesberg at sunrise. That vision still guides us today.

Bill Harrop in the early 1980s, preparing one of the pioneering balloons that helped launch commercial hot air balloon safaris in South Africa.

Preparing for flight looked very different in the early 1980s, but the excitement of watching a balloon come to life has never changed.

Today’s flights combine decades of aviation experience with modern equipment, delivering the same unforgettable sunrise adventure that began in 1981.

Bigger Balloons, Better Technology

Modern hot air balloons have come a long way over the past four decades.

Today’s balloons are built using advanced, lightweight materials designed to withstand extreme temperatures while remaining incredibly durable. Burners are more efficient, equipment is more reliable, and every component is manufactured to exceptionally high aviation standards.

Our fleet has also grown to accommodate everything from intimate couples celebrating a special occasion to large corporate groups and international tour groups.

Although the equipment has evolved significantly, the experience remains wonderfully simple.

The only engine is the wind.

Safety Has Never Stood Still

One of the greatest changes over the past 45 years has been the continuous advancement of aviation safety.

Every commercial flight operated by Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris is conducted under strict regulations set by the South African Civil Aviation Authority.

Our pilots undergo extensive training and maintain the qualifications required to operate commercial passenger flights. Every balloon receives regular inspections and maintenance, and every flight begins with detailed weather assessments before a single balloon leaves the ground.

Modern forecasting technology allows our pilots to monitor weather patterns with remarkable accuracy, helping us make informed decisions long before take-off.

While technology has improved enormously, one principle has never changed: If conditions are not safe to fly, we simply don’t fly. Safety has always come first.

From Film Cameras to Smartphones

One of the biggest differences between 1981 and today is how guests capture their memories.

Forty years ago, passengers carefully chose when to press the shutter button, hoping each photograph would turn out perfectly after being developed days later. Today, guests often arrive with smartphones, action cameras and professional photography equipment, capturing hundreds of images during a single morning. Ironically, something else has remained remarkably consistent. Many guests eventually lower their cameras.

There comes a moment during almost every flight when people simply stop taking photographs, look out across the valleys below, and quietly absorb the experience for themselves.

Some memories are best captured with your own eyes.

The Magaliesberg Has Never Lost Its Magic

The mountains below may look exactly as they did in 1981, but every sunrise tells a different story.

Winter mornings bring crystal-clear visibility stretching for kilometres. Summer offers lush green valleys and dramatic cloud formations.

Every season paints the landscape in a different light, making no two flights exactly alike. It’s this ever-changing canvas that continues to captivate guests from around the world.

Traditions Worth Keeping

In a world where technology changes almost daily, some traditions deserve to remain untouched.

Guests still begin their morning with freshly brewed coffee and warm muffins while the balloons are prepared. They still watch the colourful envelopes slowly come to life as burners roar against the quiet dawn. They still experience the extraordinary silence that only a hot air balloon can offer, interrupted only by the occasional burst of the burners.

After landing, they still celebrate with a glass of sparkling wine before enjoying a generous country-style breakfast. These traditions have become part of the Bill Harrop experience, and after 45 years, we wouldn’t have it any other way.

More Than a Flight

People often ask us what makes a hot air balloon flight so memorable. The answer isn’t found in the altitude or the distance travelled.

• It’s found in the feeling.
• It’s watching the first rays of sunlight illuminate the Magaliesberg.
• It’s sharing smiles with complete strangers who quickly become companions.
• It’s hearing almost nothing except birdsong and the occasional whisper of the burner.
• It’s the realisation that, for one peaceful hour, the busy world below simply fades away.

Those are the moments that stay with people. Sometimes for a lifetime.

Forty-Five Years Later

Every now and then, someone discovers an old photograph tucked away in a drawer. An email arrives from another country. A memory comes rushing back.

Margit’s message reminded us that although balloons have become larger, equipment more advanced, and technology almost unrecognisable, the heart of the experience has never changed.

For 45 years, we’ve had the privilege of sharing South African sunrises with guests from around the world. Some flew with a young Bill Harrop in the early 1980s. Others are only now planning their very first flight.

Whichever chapter you’re part of, one thing remains certain: A sunrise seen from a hot air balloon isn’t just another activity. It’s a memory that lasts a lifetime.

Ready to Create Your Own Sunrise Story?

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, engagement, or simply ticking off a lifelong bucket list dream, we’d love to welcome you aboard.

Come and discover why guests have been returning, and reminiscing, for over 45 years.

Your sunrise story starts here. 🎈

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When people think of winter, they often picture cold mornings and cosy blankets. While that might be true, winter also happens to be the very best season for hot air ballooning in South Africa.

At Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris, we’ve spent more than 45 years introducing guests to the beauty of sunrise from above. After thousands of flights, one thing remains remarkably consistent: winter provides some of the finest ballooning conditions of the entire year.

So, what makes winter so special?

Calm air creates smoother flights

Hot air balloons rely entirely on the atmosphere. Unlike aeroplanes, we don’t have engines or wings to fight the wind. Instead, we fly with it.

Winter mornings generally produce the calmest, most stable air of the year. Cooler overnight temperatures reduce atmospheric turbulence, creating exceptionally smooth flying conditions shortly after sunrise.

For passengers, that means a peaceful, relaxing flight where the balloon glides effortlessly across the landscape.

Crystal-clear visibility

One of the first things guests notice during winter is just how far they can see.

The cooler, drier air often produces remarkable visibility, allowing you to admire the rolling Magalies River Valley, distant mountain ranges and surrounding countryside in breathtaking detail.

On exceptional mornings, visibility stretches for many kilometres, making every photograph worthy of a frame.

Spectacular winter sunrises

No two balloon flights are ever the same, but winter sunrises have a character all their own.

As the first rays of sunlight break over the horizon, shades of gold, orange and pink illuminate the valley below. Morning mist often lingers in low-lying areas, creating a magical scene as the balloons drift silently above it.

For photographers, these conditions are difficult to beat.

Perfect weather for flying

Many people assume ballooning is better during warmer months, but experienced balloon pilots often look forward to winter.

The combination of cool temperatures, lighter winds and stable weather patterns makes winter one of the most reliable seasons for flying.

Of course, every flight remains weather dependent. Safety will always be our highest priority, and our experienced pilots carefully assess conditions before every launch.

Comfortable temperatures

Yes, it can be chilly before sunrise, but that shouldn’t put you off.

We recommend dressing in layers with comfortable closed shoes and a warm jacket for the early morning. Once the burners are operating and the sun begins to rise, many guests are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the flight feels.

You’ll also be welcomed with hot coffee, tea and muffins before your flight, making those crisp winter mornings something to look forward to.

The landscape tells a different story

Winter reveals a different side of the Magalies River Valley.

Golden grasslands, long morning shadows and crisp light create an entirely different atmosphere from the lush greens of summer. The softer winter light is particularly popular with photographers, producing rich colours and exceptional contrast throughout the flight.

Every season has its own beauty, and winter certainly has a charm that’s difficult to describe until you’ve experienced it yourself.

Every unforgettable flight begins long before sunrise, with careful preparation and safety checks by our experienced crew.

The calm, stable air of winter mornings creates ideal conditions for a peaceful sunrise balloon flight.

Crystal-clear winter skies reveal breathtaking panoramic views across the Magalies River Valley.

A tradition worth experiencing

For more than four decades, we’ve been sharing sunrise with guests from around the world.

From the excitement of watching the balloon inflate before dawn, to the peaceful silence once airborne, and finally celebrating with sparkling wine after landing, every flight follows a tradition that has created unforgettable memories for generations of passengers.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, engagement or simply looking for an extraordinary morning out, winter offers the ideal opportunity to experience one of South Africa’s most iconic adventures.

Experience winter from a different perspective

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to book your first hot air balloon flight, this is it.

Winter combines stable flying conditions, spectacular scenery and unforgettable sunrises to create an experience unlike any other.

Join Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris in the beautiful Magalies River Valley and discover why winter has long been considered ballooning season.

Your adventure begins before sunrise, but the memories will last a lifetime.

Although hot air balloon flights operate throughout the year, many experienced balloonists consider winter to be the best time for a hot air balloon flight in South Africa. The combination of stable weather, crisp mornings, clear skies and spectacular sunrise views makes every flight an unforgettable experience over the beautiful Magalies River Valley.

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to welcoming you on board.

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We are delighted to announce that voting for the Best of Pretoria Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 is now officially open, and we would be honoured to have your support.

For 45 years, Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris has been creating unforgettable sunrise experiences above the breathtaking Magalies River Valley. From milestone celebrations and marriage proposals to family adventures and bucket-list experiences, we have had the privilege of sharing countless special moments with our guests.

Now, we need your help.

If you have enjoyed a flight with us, celebrated a special occasion in one of our balloons, or simply believe we deserve recognition as one of Pretoria’s favourite attractions, we would greatly appreciate your vote in the 2026 Best of Pretoria Readers’ Choice Awards.

How to Vote

Voting is open from 23 June 2026 until 7 August 2026.

Simply click the link below and cast your vote for Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris:

Every vote counts and helps us continue sharing the magic of hot air ballooning with visitors from Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa, and around the world.

Thank You for Your Support

We are incredibly grateful to our guests, supporters, travel partners, and local community who have supported us throughout the years.

Your vote is not only recognition for our team, pilots, crew, and staff, but also a celebration of the thousands of memories that have been created in the skies above the Magalies River Valley since 1981.

Thank you for helping us keep the dream of flight alive.

Voting closes on 7 August 2026.

Vote today and help Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris soar to the top of the Best of Pretoria Readers’ Choice Awards 2026.

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to welcoming you on board.

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Every sunrise balloon flight begins long before passengers arrive at the launch site. Behind every successful flight is a skilled pilot whose knowledge, training, and experience ensure that each journey is both safe and memorable.

As one of the world’s oldest forms of aviation, hot air ballooning depends on more than modern equipment and technology. It relies on people. Without dedicated, well-trained pilots, the future of ballooning simply cannot continue.

That is why pilot training remains one of the most important investments in the long-term sustainability of the industry.

Preserving a Unique Aviation Tradition

Hot air ballooning occupies a special place in aviation history. More than 240 years after the first manned balloon flight, the principles remain remarkably unchanged. Pilots still rely on weather knowledge, sound judgement, and practical flying skills to navigate the skies safely.

Yet the pool of qualified balloon pilots remains relatively small compared to other aviation disciplines. Training new pilots is therefore essential, not only to support current operations, but also to ensure that future generations can continue to experience the wonder of balloon flight.

Without ongoing training and mentorship, valuable knowledge, experience, and aviation traditions risk being lost.

Learning from Those Who Have Gone Before

Becoming a balloon pilot is not something that happens overnight.

Before a student ever takes control of a balloon, they spend countless hours learning the fundamentals of flight operations. This includes weather observation, flight planning, equipment handling, safety procedures, crew management, air law, and practical balloon operations.

Many aspiring pilots begin their journey as crew members, helping to prepare balloons for flight, assisting with inflation and recovery operations, and gaining an understanding of the teamwork required behind the scenes.

This hands-on approach allows students to develop a deep appreciation for the responsibility that comes with operating an aircraft.

Building the Future of Ballooning

The Balloon School, operated in partnership with Alpi Aviation, plays an important role in developing future hot air balloon pilots in South Africa.

The programme provides aspiring aviators with access to structured training, experienced instructors, and practical flight experience. More importantly, it creates a pathway for passionate individuals to enter a specialised area of aviation that few people ever have the opportunity to explore.

Every new pilot who completes their training contributes to the future of ballooning, helping to ensure that this remarkable form of flight remains accessible for years to come.

More Than Flying

While learning to fly a balloon is undoubtedly exciting, pilot training is about much more than simply taking to the skies.

It teaches discipline, decision-making, situational awareness, leadership, and a profound respect for weather and the natural environment. These are qualities that define not only successful balloon pilots, but successful aviators.

The training process also fosters a strong sense of community. Ballooning has always been a collaborative activity, where pilots, crew, maintenance teams, and support staff work together to create safe and unforgettable experiences.

A Responsibility to the Future

For more than four decades, Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris has introduced thousands of guests to the magic of hot air ballooning. Ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same experience requires a continued commitment to aviation excellence and pilot development.

Every pilot who earns their licence today helps safeguard the future of ballooning tomorrow.

By investing in training, mentorship, and the development of new talent, we are not simply teaching people how to fly. We are preserving a proud aviation tradition and ensuring that the sight of colourful balloons drifting across the South African sunrise remains part of our skies for generations to come.

Find out more

Nadia Terblanche
Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris
E-mail: nadia@balloon.co.za
Tel: +27 (0) 83 457 3402
Hot Air Balloon Info Pack download: click here
Address: On Route 560, Skeerpoort, North West, South Africa
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Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to welcoming you on board.

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We are delighted to announce that Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris has earned a place as a finalist in the 2026 Tshwane Tourism Association Awards in the category of Tourist Attraction of the Year.

This recognition comes during a milestone year as we celebrate 45 years of creating unforgettable hot air balloon experiences in the Magalies River Valley.

Building on Award-Winning Success

In 2025, Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris won the Tourist Attraction of the Year Award at the Tshwane Tourism Association Awards. Now, we are honoured to stand among the finalists once again.

This nomination reflects our ongoing commitment to tourism excellence. It also recognises the dedication of our entire team.

From our pilots and ground crew to our reservations consultants and hospitality staff, every team member helps create memorable experiences for our guests.

Celebrating 45 Years of Flight

Since 1981, we have welcomed thousands of local and international visitors. Guests continue to choose our sunrise balloon flights for a unique perspective of South Africa’s natural beauty.

Over the past four and a half decades, we have grown into one of South Africa’s most recognised tourism experiences. However, our core values have remained unchanged.

We continue to focus on safety, exceptional service and unforgettable memories. As a result, many guests return to fly with us again and again.

Recognition from the Tourism Industry

The Tshwane Tourism Association Awards recognise businesses that strengthen tourism in the region. Furthermore, the awards celebrate organisations that consistently deliver exceptional visitor experiences.

Being recognised among the region’s leading tourism operators is both an honour and a privilege. Receiving this nomination after our 2025 win makes the achievement even more meaningful.

“Being recognised as a finalist during our 45th anniversary year makes this achievement particularly special,” says Dale de Klerk, Chief Executive Officer of Bill Harrop’s ‘Original’ Balloon Safaris.

“For more than four decades, our focus has remained unchanged. We strive to provide safe, memorable and world-class hot air balloon experiences while showcasing the natural beauty of our region.“

Looking Ahead

Today, we continue to welcome guests from our launch site in the heart of the Magalies River Valley.

In addition, we remain committed to supporting local tourism and maintaining the high standards that have guided our business since 1981.

We would like to thank our guests, tourism partners, industry colleagues and supporters. Your loyalty and encouragement have played an important role in our success.

Because of your support, we celebrated a Tshwane Tourism Association Award win in 2025 and now look forward to the 2026 awards ceremony.

Meanwhile, we remain focused on creating unforgettable sunrise memories for every guest who joins us on a flight.

For more information about Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris, visit www.balloon.co.za or contact our reservations team on +27 83 457 3402.

Articles:
Pretoria News
IOL

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to welcoming you on board.

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Imagine spending an evening immersed in pure relaxation before rising with the sun to experience one of South Africa’s most iconic adventures.

Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris has partnered with Mowana Spa and the Indaba Hotel to create an exclusive luxury getaway that combines wellness, romance, indulgence, and adventure in one unforgettable experience.

The Time Out Night Spa & Hot Air Balloon Experience offers couples and discerning travellers the opportunity to enjoy a tranquil overnight escape before soaring above the spectacular Magalies River Valley at sunrise.

A Journey of Relaxation and Rejuvenation

Nestled within the lush indigenous gardens of the Indaba Hotel in Fourways, Mowana Spa has become one of Johannesburg’s premier wellness destinations, offering guests a peaceful sanctuary away from the pace of city life.

Your experience begins with an evening of pampering designed to restore balance, calm the mind, and soothe tired muscles.

The package includes:

• Welcome drinks and light snacks on arrival
• A luxurious Full Body Massage
• A relaxing Foot & Lower Leg Massage
• A delicious two-course Spa Dinner
• Complimentary local beverages
• Overnight accommodation in a Deluxe Double Room at the Indaba Hotel
• Romantic rose petal turn-down service
• Return transport to and from the balloon launch site
• A sunrise hot air balloon safari with Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply taking time to reconnect, every element of the experience has been carefully curated to deliver comfort, tranquillity, and lasting memories.

Rise Before Dawn for a Bucket-List Adventure

After a peaceful night’s rest, your adventure continues before sunrise as you journey to the launch site in the heart of the beautiful Magalies River Valley.

As the first light of day paints the sky in shades of gold and orange, you’ll gently ascend aboard a hot air balloon and drift silently above one of Gauteng’s most picturesque landscapes.

Floating effortlessly above rolling countryside, rivers, and distant mountain ranges offers a perspective unlike any other. The experience is peaceful, breathtaking, and often described as life-changing by first-time passengers.

For more than 45 years, Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris has introduced visitors from around the world to the magic of hot air ballooning, making it one of Gauteng’s most sought-after bucket-list experiences.

The Celebration Continues After Landing

The experience doesn’t end when the balloon touches down.

Following the flight, guests enjoy the traditional Bill Harrop’s sparkling wine celebration before being welcomed to the Clubhouse Pavilion for a full English buffet breakfast overlooking the magnificent Magaliesberg Mountains.

Included in every balloon safari:

• Pre-flight tea, coffee, or hot chocolate
• Approximately one hour in flight
• Sparkling wine served on landing
• A full English buffet breakfast
• A personalised Certificate of Bravery

All flights are weather dependent and operated in accordance with strict South African Civil Aviation Authority regulations and pilot discretion.

Perfect for Special Occasions

The Time Out Night Spa & Hot Air Balloon Experience is ideal for:

• Romantic getaways
• Anniversaries
• Birthdays
• Honeymoons
• Marriage proposals
• Special celebrations
• Luxury weekend escapes

Combining an indulgent spa retreat with one of South Africa’s most memorable sunrise experiences creates the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure.

Package Information

Valid: 3 June 2026 to 30 August 2026
Available: Wednesday to Saturday
Price: From R10,999 per couple

Bookings are essential and subject to availability.

Booking Information

For reservations and package enquiries, please contact Mowana Spa directly:

Mowana Spa at Indaba Hotel
☎ 0861 669 262
✉ reservations@mowanaspa.co.za

Or book online via the Mowana Spa website.

Your Luxury Escape Awaits

Spend an evening being pampered beneath the stars, wake before dawn to witness the sunrise from a hot air balloon, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Relax. Reconnect. Rise with the sun. The ultimate Gauteng getaway is waiting.

All balloon safaris are weather dependent and operated in accordance with strict aviation safety regulations and pilot discretion.

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19 to 21 June 2026 | Magalies River Valley, South Africa

Winter Flight Fest 2026 will bring local and international hot air balloon pilots together in the Magalies River Valley from 19 to 21 June 2026. Hosted by Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris as part of its 45th birthday celebrations, the event will showcase the spirit of ballooning through scenic flights, friendly challenges, aviation camaraderie and a shared passion for lighter-than-air flight.

Why Winter Flight Fest 2026 Is Being Held in the Magalies River Valley

As part of our 45th Birthday Celebrations, Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris is delighted to announce the inaugural Winter Flight Fest, taking place from 19 to 21 June 2026 in the beautiful Magalies River Valley.

This special event will bring together a number of local and international hot air balloon pilots for a weekend dedicated to flying, friendship, fun challenges and the shared passion that unites balloonists around the world.

For over four decades, Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris has welcomed guests to experience the magic of hot air ballooning above one of South Africa’s most scenic landscapes. The Winter Flight Fest continues this tradition by celebrating not only the adventure of flight, but also the people who make ballooning such a unique and enduring aviation community.

More Than Just a Balloon Meet

We designed the event as a relaxed “mini meet” rather than a formal competition. Pilots will have the opportunity to fly in the spectacular winter conditions for which the Magalies River Valley is renowned, while participating in a series of light-hearted ballooning challenges and activities.

The emphasis is not on winning trophies or setting records. Instead, the focus is on camaraderie, knowledge sharing and enjoying the privilege of flying alongside fellow balloonists.

Participants will compete for a selection of fun prizes and bragging rights, but the true reward lies in the friendships forged, stories shared and memories created throughout the weekend.

Why the Magalies River Valley?

• The Magalies River Valley has long been regarded as one of South Africa’s premier ballooning destinations.
• Winter offers some of the most stable and picturesque flying conditions of the year. Crisp mornings, spectacular sunrises and gentle winds combine to create ideal conditions for hot air ballooning.
• Visiting pilots will have the rare opportunity to experience this remarkable landscape from the air, drifting above rolling countryside, winding rivers and the ancient Magaliesberg mountain range as the African sunrise illuminates the valley below.

Celebrating 45 Years of Ballooning Excellence

The Winter Flight Fest forms part of Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris’ 45th Birthday Celebration.

Since launching commercial passenger balloon flights in 1981, the company has introduced hundreds of thousands of guests to the wonder of lighter-than-air flight. Over the years, the organisation has helped shape ballooning in South Africa while maintaining an unwavering commitment to safety, professionalism and exceptional guest experiences.

This event provides an opportunity to celebrate not only the company’s history, but also the broader ballooning community that has supported and contributed to the growth of the sport over the decades.

A Community Built on Friendship

One of the defining characteristics of ballooning is the spirit of cooperation and friendship that exists between pilots, crew members and enthusiasts.

Unlike many competitive aviation disciplines, ballooning has always been built on teamwork. Pilots regularly assist one another, share knowledge and work together to ensure safe and enjoyable flying experiences.

The Winter Flight Fest aims to honour that tradition.

Whether participants are seasoned competition pilots, recreational balloonists, crew members or long-time friends of the industry, the weekend will provide an opportunity to reconnect, learn from one another and celebrate the remarkable community that makes ballooning so special.

Looking to the Skies

Visitors to the Magalies River Valley during the event may be treated to the spectacular sight of multiple hot air balloons launching and floating across the winter skies.

The sight of colourful balloons rising together at sunrise is one of aviation’s most beautiful experiences and a fitting tribute to 45 years of ballooning heritage.

As we celebrate this milestone year, we look forward to welcoming pilots, crew members and friends from near and far for a memorable weekend of flying, laughter and shared adventure.

After all, ballooning has never been just about the balloons.

It’s about the people.

Winter Flight Fest 2026

Dates: 19 to 21 June 2026
Location: Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris, Magalies River Valley, South Africa
Occasion: Celebrating 45 Years of Ballooning Excellence
Theme: Fly. Connect. Celebrate.

We look forward to seeing you in the skies.

Learn More About Ballooning

Visitors interested in the wider world of hot air ballooning and aviation can find additional information from the South African Civil Aviation Authority, the Balloon Federation of South Africa and South African Tourism.

South African Civil Aviation Authority: https://www.caa.co.za
Balloon Federation of South Africa: https://www.balloonfed.co.za
South African Tourism: https://www.southafrica.net

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to welcoming you on board.

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