8 Amazing Places in South Africa for a Romantic Hot Air Balloon Ride on Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a romantic hot air balloon ride? South Africa offers a stunning backdrop for this unforgettable experience, with its breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. Whether you’re an adventurous couple or simply looking for a unique way to spend time together, a hot air balloon ride in South Africa is sure to create lasting memories. So, let’s take a look at eight picturesque locations that will make your Valentine’s Day truly special.

1. Cape Winelands, Western Cape

Imagine floating above the lush vineyards and rolling hills of the Cape Winelands, sipping on a glass of exquisite wine as the sun paints the sky in vibrant colors. A hot air balloon ride in this picturesque region is a truly magical experience, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and vineyards below. It’s the perfect way to celebrate love and indulge in the finer things in life.

2. Magaliesberg, Gauteng

Escape the city buzz and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Magaliesberg mountain range. As you soar above the rugged landscapes, you’ll be captivated by the beauty of the surrounding nature reserves, rivers, and valleys. This romantic adventure will leave you feeling refreshed and reconnected with both nature and each other.

3. Hoedspruit, Limpopo

For nature lovers, a hot air balloon ride in Hoedspruit is a must-do. This area is famous for its wildlife, and floating above the picturesque landscapes gives you a unique perspective of the animals and their habitats. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, giraffes, and other incredible creatures that call this region home.

4. Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal

The majestic Drakensberg Mountains are a sight to behold, and what better way to admire them than from the sky? Soar above the dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush valleys, and feel the awe-inspiring power of nature. The tranquility and beauty of this region are unmatched, making it a perfect spot for a romantic hot air balloon ride.

5. Hartebeespoort Dam, North West

If you’re looking for a convenient location near Johannesburg and Pretoria, Hartebeespoort Dam is the one for you. This man-made lake is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including the Magaliesberg Mountains. Soar above the lake, admire the stunning views, and create unforgettable memories with your loved one.

6. Golden Gate Highlands National Park, Free State

Escape to the striking beauty of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park in the Free State province. With its sandstone cliffs, vast grasslands, and unique wildlife, this national park offers a breathtaking backdrop for a hot air balloon ride. Marvel at the changing colors of the landscape and revel in the feeling of being on top of the world.

7. Parys, Free State

Located on the banks of the Vaal River, the charming town of Parys is a hidden gem for hot air ballooning enthusiasts. Drift above the meandering river, admire the town’s quaint architecture, and witness the beauty of the surrounding countryside. This romantic experience will make you fall in love all over again with its serene and picturesque atmosphere.

8. Sabie Valley, Mpumalanga

For a truly enchanting experience, head to the Sabie Valley in Mpumalanga. This region is known for its dramatic waterfalls, lush forests, and panoramic views. Soaring above it all in a hot air balloon will leave you in awe of the natural wonders below. It’s an adventure you and your partner will cherish forever.

So, why not make this Valentine’s Day extra special by whisking your loved one away on a breathtaking hot air balloon ride in one of these stunning South African locations? It’s a unique and romantic way to celebrate your love and create beautiful memories that will last a lifetime.

What if I told you there’s a magical way to celebrate love? Picture this: you and your special someone floating high above the ground in a hot air balloon, enjoying breathtaking views all around. And to make it even more romantic, you can have a delightful picnic and a bottle of sparkling wine. Doesn’t that sound like the perfect Valentine’s Day plan? Let me guide you through some of the most enchanting spots in South Africa where you can experience this incredible adventure.

1. Bill Harrop’s ‘Original’ Balloon Safaris, North West

Come take a scenic ride and experience the breathtaking beauty of the Magalies River Valley from high above with Bill Harrop’s ‘Original’ Balloon Safaris.

When you arrive, make your way to the Clubhouse Pavilion for check-in. While you wait, treat yourself to a hot cup of tea or coffee and a delicious biscuit or muffin while you watch the crew get the balloons ready for flight.

The rides last for one hour and take place every morning, as long as the weather allows. Once the ride is over, you’re invited to observe the crew as they pack up the balloon, all while enjoying a glass of bubbly.

Afterwards, a comfortable minibus will return you to the Clubhouse, where even more bubbly and a fresh breakfast await you.

Prices: Starting from R2990 per person.

Contact Information: Call 083 457 3402 or click here to learn more.

Address: R560, Skeerpoort, North West.

2. Air To Air Africa, Gauteng

Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime with Air to Air Africa! They offer an action-packed four-hour package that will create unforgettable memories.

Every day at sunrise, their hot air balloon rides take off from Glenburn Lodge in the Cradle of Humankind, Muldersdrift, Gauteng. As the balloon soars through the sky, you can relax and enjoy a hot cup of tea or coffee.

After the flight, it’s time to celebrate with some bubbly and a delicious breakfast. And the best part? You’ll receive a special certificate to display proudly to your friends and family.

To find out more about their rates, give them a call at 084 602 3491.

Address: Glenburn Lodge, Kromdraai Road, Muldersdrift, Johannesburg.

3. SA Encounter, Western Cape

Hey there! If you’re looking for an amazing adventure, SA Encounter has you covered! They offer not just hot air balloon rides, but tandem paragliding too. So, whether you’re ready to soar through the sky or float above the clouds, they’ve got the perfect experience for you.

But that’s not all! SA Encounter also offers cruises, so you can explore the land, air, and sea all in one place. Whether you’re a lover of heights or prefer the solid ground beneath your feet, they have something for everyone.

Imagine flying over the breathtaking Cape Winelands and experiencing the beauty from a whole new perspective. After your flight, you even get to enjoy a delightful breakfast and some bubbly with the pilot. It’s the perfect way to celebrate your adventure!

The flight duration is approximately one hour, giving you plenty of time to soak in the awe-inspiring sights. And the rates start from just R 3500 per person, making it an accessible and unforgettable experience.

If you’re ready to take your love for adventure to new heights, give SA Encounter a call at 066 542 5394 or click here to get in touch. They’re located at Joostenberg Farm in Stellenbosch, so you’ll be surrounded by stunning scenery from start to finish.

4. HotAir, different locations

Hey there! I’ve got some exciting news for you about hot air operations in South Africa. They’ve got operations in multiple locations and offer a range of packages. One of their most affordable options is the Weekday Savvy Saver package in Cape Town. Sometimes they even run special deals, so keep an eye out for those!

Now let me tell you what you’re in for with this package. You’ll get to see all the amazing native plants and animals while enjoying delicious food and wine. How awesome is that?

And here’s the cherry on top – after your ride, you’ll get to indulge in a farm-style breakfast with a glass of bubbly. It’s the perfect way to end your adventure.

If you’re curious about the rates, the Savvy Saver option starts from R2900 per person. For more info on their locations, just click here.

Got any questions or want to make a booking? Give them a call at 072 955 5444. They’ll be happy to assist you!

Oh, and here’s the address if you need it: Stellenbosch Brewing Company, Muldersvlei, Stellenbosch.

5. Sun Fun Africa Safaries, Gauteng

What sets this hot air balloon operator apart from all the others on this list is that they specialize in creating unforgettable experiences for special occasions like engagements, anniversaries, and birthdays.

Experience the thrill of floating through the sky over the breathtaking Magaliesburg valley, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of expansive fields and landscapes. From high up in the air, you’ll have a 360-degree panoramic view that stretches as far as the eye can see.

Prices: Starting at R2600 per person for group flights.

Contact: Give them a call at 083 778 7813 or click here to learn more.

Location: Sun Fun, Hekpoort, Gauteng.

6. Wineland Ballooning, Western Cape

Experience the beauty of the Berg River Valley near Paarl with Wineland Ballooning. Take to the skies and enjoy breathtaking views of the iconic Table Mountain and, weather permitting, even catch a glimpse of the Cape of Good Hope.

Hey there! Did you know that Wineland Ballooning not only offers breathtaking balloon rides but also has cozy self-catering accommodation? So, after you’ve had your amazing experience soaring in the sky, why not enjoy a romantic dinner indoors?

Interested in the rates? They start from R4900 per person.

If you want to get in touch with Wineland Ballooning, you can call them at 021 863 3192 or simply click here.

Now, let’s move on to the next exciting option for hot air balloon rides!

7. Nova Hot Air Balloons, Western Cape

At Nova Hot Air Balloons, not only will you get to enjoy a hot drink and homemade South African rusks while watching the crew set up your balloon, but the rides are also stable enough to satisfy the hearts of photographers and videographers eager to capture stunning landscapes.

After your exhilarating experience in the air, you’ll get to celebrate with a delicious breakfast and some bubbly, all while enjoying the company of the pilot and crew.

Curious about the rates? They start from R4300 per person.

Contact information: If you have any questions or would like to book a hot air balloon ride, you can reach us at 021 813 9438 or 082 899 6374. Alternatively, you can click here to contact us.

Location: We are located at Hangar C3 Mosselbay Airport, Aalwyndal, Mossel Bay.

8. Hot Air Ballooning SA – Explore South Africa from Above

With over 17 years of experience, Hot Air Ballooning SA offers breathtaking rides over some of South Africa’s most iconic landscapes. From the magnificent Maluti mountain range in Clarens to the picturesque Vaal River and the historic Vredefort Dome meteorite impact site in Parys, our hot air balloon rides provide stunning views that will leave you in awe.

If you’re looking for a magical experience, we also offer rides over KZN’s enchanting midlands and the ethereal Champagne Valley in the majestic Drakensberg Mountains.

At Hot Air Ballooning SA, we understand that every occasion is unique. That’s why we also cater to specific events upon request.

Rates: For pricing details and to book your hot air balloon ride, please give us a call at 083 446 9423 or click here.

ALSO READ