A hot air balloon safari is not something most people book every weekend. It is perfectly reasonable to have questions, and getting clear answers beforehand makes the experience easier to plan and enjoy.
Below are answers to some of the questions guests most frequently ask when planning a flight with Bill Harrop’s ‘Original’ Balloon Safaris in the Magalies River Valley.
What time does a balloon safari begin?
Balloon flights take place shortly after sunrise, so check-in is early and varies according to the season. Your booking correspondence will provide the applicable check-in time for your flight date.
Please arrive on time. Ballooning follows a coordinated operational schedule, and the aircraft cannot simply wait for a late passenger once preparations and launch procedures are under way.
How long should I set aside?
Set aside approximately three to four hours for the complete experience. This includes check-in and pre-flight refreshments, preparation and briefing, the balloon flight, the post-landing celebration, the return to the Clubhouse Pavilion and buffet breakfast.
The flight itself is approximately one hour, although aviation and weather conditions can affect the exact duration.
Why are flights so early?
Ballooning depends on suitable wind and weather conditions. The period shortly after sunrise generally offers the most appropriate conditions for safe recreational ballooning. It also delivers the quiet atmosphere and beautiful light that guests associate with the experience.
What happens if the weather is unsuitable?
Safety comes first. A flight will proceed only when the pilot is satisfied that conditions are suitable. Weather decisions are based on professional aviation assessment, not on whether it appears sunny at a guest’s home or hotel.
If a Magalies River Valley flight is cancelled because of weather, the booking is rebookable in accordance with the applicable terms and conditions. Guests should review those terms before payment and keep some flexibility in mind when choosing a date.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the season and the early morning temperature. Practical closed shoes are strongly recommended because launch and landing areas are outdoors and the ground may be uneven. Layered clothing is useful, as the temperature can change after sunrise.
Avoid delicate footwear and clothing that restricts movement. This is an aviation adventure in the countryside, not the natural habitat of a stiletto.
Is the basket difficult to enter?
Passengers must be able to climb into and out of the basket without assistance, adopt the instructed landing position and safely absorb the movement of a balloon landing. As a practical fitness guideline, passengers must be able to climb approximately 1,350 mm, jump down approximately 60 cm and remain standing for around one hour.
Landings can take place on uneven terrain and may involve vertical loads. Anyone with a medical condition, mobility concern, recent injury or uncertainty about their suitability should disclose it before booking.
Can children fly?
Children must be at least seven years old and at least 1.30 metres tall. Both requirements must be met, and the child must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
The child’s age and height should be disclosed when making the booking. Height may be checked at check-in because passengers need to see over the basket edge and safely follow the landing instructions.
Can pregnant passengers fly?
No. Balloon landings are variable and can involve impact, so pregnant passengers are not permitted to fly.
What if I recently had surgery or a medical procedure?
A post-operative stand-down period applies. A passenger who has undergone surgery, an invasive procedure or an intervention involving general anaesthesia or deep sedation may not fly for a minimum of three months. Major procedures require a six-month, or 180-day, stand-down period.
Passengers must also be able to meet the physical fitness requirements and safely absorb a landing while in the instructed brace position. If there is any doubt, contact the reservations team before purchasing or confirming a ticket.
Will we see wildlife?
The Magalies River Valley flight is a scenic countryside experience and is not sold as a game-viewing safari. The route is determined by the wind, and while guests may occasionally notice animals or birdlife, no particular sighting can be promised.
What is included?
The traditional Magalies River Valley experience includes pre-flight refreshments, an approximately one-hour balloon flight, a sparkling wine celebration after landing, a buffet breakfast at the Clubhouse Pavilion and Restaurant, and a Certificate of Bravery.
Non-alcoholic sparkling wine and vegetarian breakfast options can be arranged. Halaal and Kosher catering are not available, so dietary requirements should be discussed before booking.
How do I book?
Choose a preferred date and contact the reservations team with the number of passengers. Include the ages, heights and weights of any children, along with relevant medical or mobility information for any passenger.
Reservations require full pre-payment and remain subject to availability, suitable weather and the current terms and conditions. Read the booking information carefully before payment. A balloon safari should be wonderfully memorable, but the administration leading up to it should be pleasantly boring.
| Still have a question? Chat to our reservations team before booking. Clear information now helps ensure that every passenger is properly prepared for the morning. |
Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to welcoming you on board.
