Hot Air Ballooning

Image Source: Tourism NT/Matt Glastonbury

Just as the birds begin to sing and first light peaks through, float across Alice Springs into the sky on hot air balloon. Experience the view from above of the West MacDonnell Ranges made up of red desert, national park and native wildlife.

Tours depart directly out of Alice Springs, and hotel pickup is available so you won’t need to worry about anything.

Image Source: Tourism NT/Mitchell Cox

Discover the incredible landscape surrounding the area with only one hot air balloon operator on offer, and that’s Outback Ballooning. Outback Ballooning provides two flight durations; a 30 minute or 60-minute balloon flight. Along with a choice of fleets from 2 to 4 people or groups of 8 up to 24 people in one balloon (depending on the day). Exclusive private charters are also available on request.

As the morning sun comes up, watch the incredible colours fill the sky across the MacDonnell Ranges. Catch views across spinifex grass, mulga scrub and cattle stations and absorb the astonishing atmosphere. The contrasting landscape is made up of red and ochre hues and the MacDonnell Ranges act as a dramatic backdrop. Reach heights high enough to begin to understand how expansive the Australian outback is, yet remain low enough to catch a glimpse of native wildlife like red kangaroos and wallabies. On landing you’ll be treated to a choice of refreshments as your experience comes to an end.

This adventure is great for families; however, the experience is not recommended for children under five, as they most often cannot see over the side of the basket. Pack your camera and be sure to capture the moment. In the winter months wear lots of layers as temperatures can drop to below 0 degrees, along with flat shoes for safety.

Experience the tranquillity at sunrise in a hot air balloon. As the rest of the town only just begins to rise, watch your surroundings come to life as you float above and across the land at dawn; an adventure you’ll never forget.