June 5 – Hot Air Balloon Rides Day

Hot Air Balloon Rides Day is Today!

Experience breathtaking views from high above with hot air balloons – a magical way to travel through the skies! These whimsical flying machines have been around for centuries, and for good reason. Imagine floating across stunning landscapes, catching glimpses of the world from a whole new perspective. As you rise higher and higher, the gentle rush of hot air will carry you effortlessly through the air, giving you a sensation like no other. It’s no wonder hot air ballooning is a popular bucket-list item for adventure seekers and romantics alike. So why not try something different and take to the skies on a hot air balloon ride? It’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.

HISTORY OF HOT AIR BALLOONS

The hot air balloon’s origins date back to the 1700s when French brothers Joseph and Etienne Montgolfier conducted their first experiment. The balloon they created was constructed of paper and silk and was powered by a raging fire. It lifted off the ground and soared into the sky, capturing the attention of the world. Since then, the hot air balloon has been used for a variety of purposes, from scientific research to military reconnaissance. Its unique design and peaceful demeanor make it a favorite among recreational enthusiasts.

100 PLACES WHERE YOU CAN GO ON HOT AIR BALLOON RIDES

Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA: Known for its International Balloon Fiesta, Albuquerque offers stunning views of the Rio Grande Valley and Sandia Mountains.
Amalfi Coast, Italy: Explore the breathtaking coastline and colorful cliffside villages of the Amalfi Coast from above during hot air balloon rides offering stunning views of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Amazon Rainforest, Brazil: Explore the world’s largest tropical rainforest from a unique perspective with hot air balloon rides offering bird’s-eye views of the Amazon’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife.
Amboise, France: Float over the Loire Valley’s charming villages and lush vineyards, with the Loire River winding below.
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Soar above the picturesque canals and historic landmarks of Amsterdam during hot air balloon rides offering bird’s-eye views of the Dutch capital.
Aconcagua, Argentina: Marvel at the highest peak in the Western Hemisphere, Aconcagua, during hot air balloon rides offering panoramic views of the Andes Mountains and the surrounding Argentinean landscape.
Alice Springs, Northern Territory: Explore the rugged landscapes of the Australian Outback from the serene heights of a hot air balloon, with views of iconic landmarks such as the MacDonnell Ranges and Simpson Desert.
Angel Falls, Venezuela: Soar above the world’s highest waterfall, Angel Falls, plunging over 3,200 feet from the top of Auyán-tepui, during hot air balloon rides offering unparalleled views of this natural wonder and the surrounding Canaima National Park.
Angkor Wat, Cambodia: Drift over the ancient temples of Angkor Wat at sunrise, witnessing the stunning architectural wonders from above.
Asheville, North Carolina: Explore the scenic beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and lush countryside surrounding Asheville with hot air balloon rides offering breathtaking views of the Appalachian landscape.
Atacama Desert, Chile: Experience the surreal beauty of the Atacama Desert, with its vast salt flats and colorful landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see.
Bagan, Myanmar: Marvel at the thousands of ancient temples and pagodas scattered across the plains of Bagan, as the sun rises over this archaeological wonder.
Balloons Over Waikato, New Zealand: Enjoy hot air balloon rides over the picturesque landscapes of Waikato, with views of rolling hills and the Waikato River.
Barcelona, Spain: Enjoy panoramic views of Barcelona’s iconic landmarks, including the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell, during scenic hot air balloon rides over the Catalan capital.
Barossa Valley, Australia: Glide over vineyards and wineries in South Australia’s Barossa Valley, renowned for its world-class wines and scenic beauty.
Bordeaux, France: Float above the vineyards and châteaux of Bordeaux, one of the world’s premier wine regions, during hot air balloon rides offering panoramic views of the French countryside.
Bristol, England: Take in panoramic views of Bristol’s historic harbor and iconic landmarks, including the Clifton Suspension Bridge, during scenic hot air balloon rides over the city.
Budapest, Hungary: Glide over the Danube River and Budapest’s stunning architecture, including the Hungarian Parliament Building and Buda Castle, during hot air balloon rides over the Hungarian capital.
Cambridge, England: Soar above the historic colleges and meandering River Cam during hot air balloon rides offering breathtaking views of Cambridge’s iconic landmarks.
Cappadocia, Turkey: Famous for its fairy chimneys and surreal landscapes, Cappadocia offers an unforgettable hot air balloon experience over its ancient valleys and rock formations.
Château-d’Œx, Switzerland: Nestled in the Swiss Alps, Château-d’Œx provides breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and picturesque valleys.
Chiang Mai, Thailand: Explore the lush countryside of northern Thailand from above, with hot air balloon rides offering panoramic views of rice paddies and distant mountains.
Cinque Terre, Italy: Experience the colorful villages and rugged coastline of the Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from a unique perspective during hot air balloon rides over this scenic region.
Colca Canyon, Peru: Drift over the dramatic landscapes of Colca Canyon, one of the world’s deepest canyons, during hot air balloon rides offering stunning views of terraced fields, Andean villages, and soaring condors.
Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA: Soar above the majestic Rocky Mountains and Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs, enjoying unparalleled vistas of natural beauty.
Costa Brava, Spain: Glide over the rugged coastline of Costa Brava, with its turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and dramatic cliffs, providing a stunning backdrop for a hot air balloon adventure.
Cotopaxi National Park, Ecuador: Soar above the towering peaks and volcanic landscapes of Cotopaxi National Park, home to one of the highest active volcanoes in the world, during hot air balloon rides offering breathtaking views of this Andean wilderness.
Edinburgh, Scotland: Enjoy panoramic views of Edinburgh’s skyline, including Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat, during scenic hot air balloon rides over the Scottish capital.
Drakensberg, South Africa: Enjoy panoramic views of South Africa’s dramatic Drakensberg Mountains, with their towering peaks and verdant valleys, from the serene vantage point of a hot air balloon.
Edinburgh, Scotland: Take in panoramic views of Edinburgh’s skyline and historic landmarks, including Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, during hot air balloon rides over the Scottish capital.
Ecuadorian Andes, Ecuador: Glide over the majestic Andean landscapes of Ecuador, with its snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and indigenous villages, during hot air balloon rides offering breathtaking views of this diverse region.
Erg Chebbi, Morocco: Experience the Sahara Desert’s vastness and tranquility with hot air balloon rides over Erg Chebbi’s towering sand dunes and nomadic Berber camps.
Everglades National Park, Florida, USA: Discover the unique ecosystem of the Everglades, spotting alligators, birds, and other wildlife from the peaceful heights of a hot air balloon.
Fiordland National Park, New Zealand: Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, with its towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and serene lakes, all visible from a hot air balloon.
Galapagos Islands, Ecuador: Experience the unique biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands from above, with hot air balloon rides offering breathtaking views of volcanic landscapes, turquoise waters, and endemic wildlife.
Gold Coast, Queensland: Take in panoramic views of the Gold Coast’s iconic skyline, golden beaches, and lush hinterland during tranquil hot air balloon rides over this popular tourist destination.
Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA: Experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of the Grand Canyon from a hot air balloon, with views of the vast canyon walls and the Colorado River winding far below.
Goreme, Turkey: Another captivating destination in Cappadocia, Goreme offers hot air balloon rides over its surreal landscapes, dotted with ancient cave dwellings and fairy chimneys.
Hampi, India: Float over the ancient ruins and stunning landscapes of Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich history and architectural wonders.
Hudson Valley, New York, USA: Enjoy picturesque views of the Hudson River Valley, with its rolling hills, historic towns, and vibrant foliage, during a hot air balloon ride in upstate New York.
Hunter Valley, New South Wales: Drift over the lush vineyards and majestic mountains of the Hunter Valley, renowned for its world-class wineries, during hot air balloon rides offering panoramic vistas of this idyllic region.
Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil: Soar above the breathtaking Iguazu Falls, one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders, during hot air balloon rides offering unparalleled views of the cascading waterfalls and lush rainforest surroundings
Inle Lake, Myanmar: Drift over the tranquil waters of Inle Lake, surrounded by floating gardens, stilted villages, and mist-covered mountains, for a serene and unforgettable experience.
Iceland: Soar above Iceland’s diverse landscapes, including glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic craters, during hot air balloon rides offering unparalleled views of this breathtaking island nation.
Istanbul, Turkey: Drift over Istanbul’s skyline and historic landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, during hot air balloon rides offering stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming: Soar above the majestic Teton Range and scenic Snake River Valley during hot air balloon rides over Jackson Hole, offering unparalleled vistas of Grand Teton National Park.
Jaipur, India: Get a bird’s-eye view of Jaipur’s majestic forts, palaces, and bustling bazaars from a hot air balloon, with the pink-hued cityscape providing a colorful backdrop.
La Paz, Bolivia: Drift over the world’s highest capital city, La Paz, nestled in a deep valley amidst the Andes Mountains, during hot air balloon rides offering breathtaking views of its urban landscape and surrounding mountains.
Las Vegas, Nevada: Experience the glitz and glamour of the Las Vegas Strip from a unique perspective with hot air balloon rides offering bird’s-eye views of the city’s iconic landmarks.
Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada, USA: Soar above the crystal-clear waters and snow-capped peaks of Lake Tahoe, one of the most picturesque alpine lakes in North America, for a truly memorable aerial adventure.
Loire Valley, France: Drift over the enchanting Loire Valley, dotted with fairytale châteaux, verdant vineyards, and charming villages, as you savor the beauty of the French countryside from above.
Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, Brazil: Explore the surreal landscapes of Lençóis Maranhenses, with its shifting sand dunes and freshwater lagoons, during hot air balloon rides offering panoramic views of this unique natural wonder.
Luxor, Egypt: Experience the timeless beauty of Luxor’s ancient monuments, including the Valley of the Kings and the Temple of Karnak, as you float peacefully over the Nile River in a hot air balloon.
Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya: Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Maasai Mara from above, with hot air balloon rides offering unparalleled views of the vast savannah teeming with wildlife during the Great Migration.
Machu Picchu, Peru: Soar above the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, nestled amidst the Andes Mountains, during hot air balloon rides offering unparalleled views of this archaeological wonder and its surrounding landscapes.
Monument Valley, Utah/Arizona, USA: Marvel at the iconic sandstone formations of Monument Valley, including towering buttes and mesas, as you glide silently through the desert skies in a hot air balloon.
Moab, Utah: Explore the otherworldly landscapes of Moab and the breathtaking red rock formations of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks during hot air balloon rides offering unforgettable views of the Utah desert.
Mont Saint-Michel, France: Enjoy a unique perspective of Mont Saint-Michel, the medieval abbey perched on a rocky island off the coast of Normandy, during a hot air balloon ride over the picturesque French countryside.
Montserrat, Spain: Experience the dramatic landscapes of Montserrat, with its rugged mountains and monastery perched atop a rocky outcrop, during hot air balloon rides offering breathtaking views of Catalonia.
Namib Desert, Namibia: Discover the stark beauty of the Namib Desert, with its towering red sand dunes and vast salt pans, during a hot air balloon adventure that offers unparalleled views of this otherworldly landscape.
Napa Valley, California, USA: Soar above the vineyards and wineries of Napa Valley, with hot air balloon rides providing a serene and scenic way to experience one of the world’s premier wine regions.
Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania: Marvel at the stunning beauty and biodiversity of the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and natural wonder, from the unique vantage point of a hot air balloon floating above the crater floor.
Pantanal Wetlands, Brazil: Explore the world’s largest tropical wetland from above, with hot air balloon rides offering bird’s-eye views of the Pantanal’s diverse wildlife, including caimans, jaguars, and colorful birds.
Park City, Utah: Glide over the breathtaking landscapes of Park City and the Wasatch Mountains during serene hot air balloon rides offering panoramic views of Utah’s natural beauty.
Patagonia, Argentina/Chile: Drift over the rugged landscapes of Patagonia, with its towering mountains, glaciers, and pristine lakes, during hot air balloon rides offering panoramic views of this remote wilderness.
Perito Moreno Glacier, Argentina: Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of the Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few advancing glaciers in the world, during hot air balloon rides offering bird’s-eye views of this icy landscape and its turquoise waters.
Portugal Alentejo, Portugal: Float above the rolling plains, cork oak forests, and medieval towns of Portugal’s Alentejo region during hot air balloon rides offering picturesque views of the countryside.
Potosí, Bolivia: Glide over the historic mining town of Potosí, with its colonial architecture and Cerro Rico mountain, during hot air balloon rides offering panoramic views of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and its surrounding Andean landscapes.
Prague, Czech Republic: Glide over Prague’s historic Old Town and iconic Charles Bridge during hot air balloon rides offering panoramic views of the Czech capital’s skyline.
Provence, France: Drift over the lavender fields, sunflower fields, and charming villages of Provence during hot air balloon rides offering panoramic views of this picturesque region.
Queenstown, New Zealand: Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range surrounding Queenstown, known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, during a hot air balloon ride over this stunning alpine landscape.
Queensland Outback, Australia: Experience the vastness and rugged beauty of the Australian Outback, with hot air balloon rides offering a unique perspective on this remote and captivating landscape, including sweeping plains, ancient rock formations, and colorful gorges.
Rocky Mountains, Colorado, USA: Soar above the majestic peaks and alpine meadows of the Rocky Mountains, with hot air balloon rides providing a peaceful and awe-inspiring way to experience the breathtaking beauty of this iconic mountain range.
Safari Serengeti, Tanzania: Experience the thrill of a safari from the air with hot air balloon rides over the Serengeti, offering unparalleled views of the vast plains teeming with wildlife, including lions, elephants, and giraffes, during the annual Great Migration.
Sahara Desert, Morocco: Journey into the heart of the Sahara Desert for a hot air balloon adventure over the rolling sand dunes and ancient caravan routes, with the chance to witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over this iconic landscape.
Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia: Discover the otherworldly beauty of the Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, during a hot air balloon ride that offers panoramic views of the shimmering white expanse stretching to the horizon, punctuated by distant volcanoes and cactus-covered islands.
Salzburg, Austria: Enjoy panoramic views of Salzburg’s baroque architecture, including Hohensalzburg Fortress and Mirabell Palace, during scenic hot air balloon rides over the Austrian city.
San Diego, California, USA: Enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, downtown skyline, and surrounding mountains during a hot air balloon ride over San Diego, known for its perfect year-round weather and scenic coastal landscapes.
Santa Fe, New Mexico: Discover the enchanting beauty of Santa Fe and the surrounding Sangre de Cristo Mountains with hot air balloon rides offering panoramic views of the high desert landscape.
Santorini, Greece: Experience the stunning beauty of Santorini from above, with hot air balloon rides offering breathtaking views of the island’s iconic whitewashed buildings and crystal-clear waters.
Sardinia, Italy: Float above the rugged coastline and turquoise waters of Sardinia, Italy’s second-largest island, during hot air balloon rides offering stunning views of the Mediterranean landscape.
São Paulo, Brazil: Enjoy panoramic views of Brazil’s largest city and financial hub, São Paulo, during hot air balloon rides offering bird’s-eye views of its skyscrapers, parks, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Savannah, Georgia: Drift over the charming cityscape of Savannah and the picturesque coastal landscapes of Georgia’s Lowcountry during scenic hot air balloon flights.
Sedona, Arizona, USA: Glide silently over the breathtaking red rock formations and rugged desert landscapes of Sedona, with hot air balloon rides offering a serene and memorable way to experience the stunning natural beauty of this iconic Arizona destination.
Safari Serengeti, Tanzania: Witness the Great Migration and abundant wildlife of the Serengeti from above during exhilarating hot air balloon safaris over the African savannah.
Sicily, Italy: Explore the diverse landscapes of Sicily, from Mount Etna to the rugged coastline, during hot air balloon rides offering breathtaking views of the largest island in the Mediterranean.
Sonoma Valley, California, USA: Savor the beauty of Sonoma Valley’s rolling vineyards, lush valleys, and picturesque countryside from the peaceful heights of a hot air balloon, with views of the Mayacamas Mountains providing a stunning backdrop for this unforgettable aerial adventure.
Sossusvlei, Namibia: Experience the stark beauty and desolate grandeur of Sossusvlei, a vast salt and clay pan surrounded by towering red sand dunes, during a hot air balloon ride over this iconic Namibian landscape, with the chance to witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the desert.
Swiss Alps, Switzerland: Marvel at the majestic beauty of the Swiss Alps from the unique vantage point of a hot air balloon, with rides offering unparalleled views of snow-capped peaks, verdant valleys, and sparkling lakes in this stunning alpine region.
Torres del Paine National Park, Chile: Marvel at the dramatic scenery of Torres del Paine, with its towering granite peaks, glaciers, and pristine lakes, during hot air balloon rides over this UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
Tuscany, Italy: Drift over the rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval towns of Tuscany, with hot air balloon rides providing a romantic and unforgettable way to experience the timeless beauty of this iconic Italian landscape, including panoramic views of Florence, Siena, and the Chianti wine region.
Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico: Discover Mexico’s premier wine region, Valle de Guadalupe, with hot air balloon rides offering panoramic views of vineyards, olive groves, and rugged mountains in this picturesque valley located just south of the US-Mexico border.
Vang Vieng, Laos: Explore the stunning karst landscapes and lush countryside surrounding Vang Vieng, a popular backpacker destination in Laos, during a hot air balloon ride that offers breathtaking views of limestone cliffs, winding rivers, and traditional villages nestled in the valley below.
Vatican City, Italy: Enjoy a unique perspective of Vatican City, the smallest independent state in the world, during a hot air balloon ride over the historic landmarks of Rome, including St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, and the Colosseum, with views of the Tiber River and the Roman Forum providing a stunning backdrop for this unforgettable aerial adventure.
Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe: Witness the awe-inspiring beauty and power of Victoria Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in the world, during a hot air balloon ride over the Zambezi River, with views of the mist-shrouded falls and surrounding rainforest providing a breathtaking backdrop for this unforgettable aerial adventure.
Yangshuo, China: Discover the stunning karst landscapes and picturesque countryside surrounding Yangshuo, a popular tourist destination in southern China, during a hot air balloon ride that offers panoramic views of limestone peaks, meandering rivers, and traditional villages nestled among rice paddies.
Yorkshire Dales, England: Soar above the stunning landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, with its rolling hills and picturesque villages, during hot air balloon rides over this scenic region.
Yountville, California: Float above the vineyards and rolling hills of Yountville, located in the heart of Napa Valley, and enjoy panoramic vistas of wine country during hot air balloon rides.
Yarra Valley, Australia: Float above the vineyards, orchards, and rolling hills of Victoria’s Yarra Valley, one of Australia’s premier wine regions, during a hot air balloon ride that offers breathtaking views of the lush countryside, with the Dandenong Ranges providing a stunning backdrop for this unforgettable aerial adventure.
Zion National Park, Utah, USA: Soar above the dramatic landscapes and towering sandstone cliffs of Zion National Park, one of America’s most iconic national parks, during a hot air balloon ride that offers unparalleled views of the Virgin River, Zion Canyon, and the surrounding red rock wilderness, with the chance to witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over this spectacular desert landscape and palaces during an enchanting hot air balloon ride over the Pink City.