Is hot air ballooning in the Yarra Valley safe?

Yes, it is very safe. Experienced pilots and ground crew follow strict safety protocols to ensure a smooth and secure flight.

Are hotel transfers included in the hot air ballooning package?

Many operators offer hotel transfers as part of the package. It's best to confirm with your chosen operator for exact details.

What should I wear for a hot air balloon flight?

Wear comfortable, layered clothing and flat, closed shoes. Mornings can be chilly, so dressing in layers is recommended.

The Iconic Hot Air Balloon in the Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is stunning and famous for wine and icons. Among all the adventures you can do here, the hot air balloon ride is the most unforgettable. Thousands of feet in the air, you will see vineyards, forests, and the natural beauty of the stunning landscape below. Whether you want an experience for a special occasion or to see the sunrise, a hot air balloon in the Yarra Valley is the way to go.

History of Hot Air Ballooning

Hot air ballooning in the Yarra Valley has been around for decades and is now an icon of tourism. Companies like Ballooning Australia and award-winning family-owned companies have been offering this experience in the famous wine region for years. As technology has improved, these ballooning operations have grown to include full flight packages with flight certificates, breakfast options and even a buffet Champagne breakfast.

Unforgettable Adventure

A hot air ballooning experience is a one off adventure activity. The gentle lift into the sky and being carried by the wind is a peaceful and interactive experience. As you fly over the patchwork of vineyards and natural amphitheatres like Lake Eildon you’ll be treated to the breathtaking views and icons that make the Yarra Valley famous. For an experience to remember the Yarra Valley Balloon Flight is the way to go.

Best Time to Fly

The best to have a in the is in the , just before sunrise. This is when the air is calmest and the flight is smoothest. The is quiet and peaceful, so it’s even more special to see the sunrise. Flights are , so are often flexible to ensure the best conditions for .

Table: Seasonal from Your

Season	Iconic Views from the Balloon
Spring	Lush green fields, blooming wildflowers, and vibrant foliage
Summer	Sun-drenched vineyards, golden fields, and crystal-clear skies
Autumn	Fiery reds, oranges, and yellows across the vineyards and rolling hills
Winter	Misty mornings, snow-capped mountains, and serene, quiet landscapes

Every season brings its own colours and landscapes, so every hot air experience is a new one.

What to Expect

On the day of your hot air ballooning adventure, you will receive a tour voucher and tour operator details ahead of time. After a short safety briefing, you will watch as the air balloon is inflated and then get ready for your 60-minute hot air balloon ride. Once airborne, the balloon burners will keep you floating smoothly while you take in the views of the valley. After landing, you will enjoy breakfast or the option of a buffet champagne breakfast at places like Balgownie Estate or Chateau Yering Hotel.

Experienced Pilots and Safe Operations

All hot air ballooning in the Yarra Valley is operated by friendly ballooning guides who put safety first. All pilots are experienced, fully licensed and certified to give you a safe and enjoyable experience. Ground crew and ground insurance is in place to cover all aspects of the flight from takeoff to landing. You will experience safe operations with regular equipment checks, weather checks, safety briefings before and after the flight and deflation processes on landing.

Comfortable Balloons

The air balloons used for these flights are designed for comfort. Each basket has plenty of room to move and take in the bird’s eye views. The flight is designed to be thrilling and comfortable with sturdy baskets and balloon burners. Operators also offer hotel transfers and a champagne breakfast option.

Options to Suit You

There are many ballooning tours in the Yarra Valley that suit every taste and occasion. Whether you want a special occasion package with a gourmet champagne breakfast or a simpler tour with a buffet breakfast, there are plenty of options. Bookings are recommended to secure your preferred time; availability varies by season and weather.

The Views: What You’ll See

The Yarra Valley is a region of contrasts, from the beautiful vineyards to the stunning architecture of the wineries and estates. As you float over the valley, you will see the famous Chateau Yering Hotel, the rolling hills of Healesville Sanctuary and the natural amphitheatre of Lake Eildon. The patchwork of vineyards, forests and rivers is a beautiful sight from the air; the views change with the seasons. Whether you are flying over green, spring, or autumn colours, every flight is a new view of the region’s natural beauty. On clear days, you might even see the Melbourne Cricket Ground in the distance.

Combine Your Hot Air Balloon Flight with a Wine Tour

After taking in the views of the Yarra Valley from above, many people choose to add on a wine tour. The valley is home to some of Australia’s best wineries, including Balgownie Estate, which offers a gourmet champagne breakfast as part of its hot air ballooning packages. For a full day of pampering, why not combine your flight with a wine region tour and visit cellar doors, taste award-winning wines and see the beautiful architecture of the vineyards?

Top Tips

To make your hot air experience as special as possible:

Dress in layers: Early flights can be cold, but they warm up quickly once you’re in the air.
Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be standing for the duration of the flight, so make sure your shoes are up to the task.
Bring a camera: The bird’s eye you’ll take will be the best you’ve ever taken so don’t forget your camera or smartphone.
Arrive early: The for a is usually an , so plan to arrive with plenty of to enjoy the full experience from setup to launch.
Be flexible: Remember is so you may need to adjust your plans if the conditions aren’t right.