A Proudly South African Adventure: Celebrating Our Heritage From the Sky
As South Africa celebrates Heritage Day and Tourism Month, we reflect on 45 years of sharing the Magalies River Valley from the sky.
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How to Become an Affiliate Agent With Bill Harrop’s Balloon Safaris
Tour operators, travel agents and accommodation partners can apply to become approved affiliate agents. Here is how the process works and what we expect from a productive partnership.
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Adventure Awaits Spring 2026: Read Our New E-Magazine
Our Spring 2026 edition of Adventure Awaits has arrived, with ballooning stories, guest experiences, beautiful photography and fresh reasons to meet us at sunrise.
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Winter Fun Flight Fest 2026: A Celebration of Skill, Friendship and 45 Years of Ballooning
Experienced balloon pilots and crews gathered in the Magalies River Valley from 17 to 19 July 2026 for a weekend of friendly flying challenges, competition and camaraderie, celebrating 45 years of Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris. Here are the overall placements and prize winners from the Winter Fun Flights 2026.
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Vote for Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris in the Best of Pretoria Readers’ Choice Awards 2026
Voting is now open for the Best of Pretoria Readers’ Choice Awards 2026. Support Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris and help us soar to the top by casting your vote today.
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Keeping Ballooning Alive: Training the Next Generation of Hot Air Balloon Pilots
Behind every sunrise balloon flight is a highly trained pilot. Discover how the Balloon School, in partnership with Alpi Aviation, is helping to train the next generation of hot air balloon pilots and preserve the future of ballooning in South Africa through mentorship, practical experience, and aviation excellence.
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Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris Named Finalist in the 2026 Tshwane Tourism Association Awards
Following our Tourist Attraction of the Year win in 2025, Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris is proud to be recognised once again as a finalist in the 2026 Tshwane Tourism Association Awards during our 45th anniversary year.
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Winter Flight Fest 2026 POSTPONED: Celebrating Ballooning, Friendship and 45 Years of Aviation Excellence
Celebrate 45 years of ballooning excellence at the Winter Flight Fest 2026. Experience a weekend of flying, friendship and fun as local and international pilots gather in the Magalies River Valley from 19 to 21 June 2026.
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Adventure Awaits Winter Edition 2026
Celebrate 45 years of sunrise ballooning with the Adventure Awaits Winter Edition 2026 from Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris. Discover winter ballooning inspiration, heritage stories, Birthday Bash offers, luxury experiences, and unforgettable moments above the Magalies River Valley.
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Best of Pretoria Readers’ Choice Awards 2026
Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris is proud to be nominated for the Best of Pretoria Readers’ Choice Awards 2026, a respected, community-driven platform recognising trusted local businesses across Gauteng. As the longest-established hot air balloon company in South Africa, operating since 1981, this nomination reflects decades of delivering a consistently exceptional hot air balloon experience…
