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.
