Hot air balloon flight in the scenic Magalies River Valley with Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safari Team.

An out-of-this-world adventure! A Bucket List tick! Your unforgettable journey over the Magalies River Valley begins at sunrise. Walk down our lantern-lit pathway to enjoy pre-flight coffee and tea with freshly baked muffins while you watch the balloons being inflated. Embark on your 1-hour exciting sunrise flight, taking in the views of the majestic Magaliesburg mountains and river valley. Celebrate landing with a glass of sparkling wine or juice while the crew packs up the balloons. Return to our Clubhouse Pavilion for a delectable buffet breakfast overlooking the mountains and manicured gardens.

In the event we need to cancel the flight due to unsafe flying conditions, such as strong winds or rain; on the Traditional Package, the passenger can request a full refund of the ticket price.

You will need to provide your weight (in kg)

Morning’s duration: We advise passengers to set aside approximately 3 to 4 hours for the morning’s activity (check-in, flight, return transfer to launch site and breakfast)

What to wear: Clothing should be warm enough for the chilly early morning but it should be “peelable” because the sun, excitement and probably the champagne will soon warm you. “Country” shoes (no high heels or open sandals) are recommended, and if you are tall or a little thin on top (like Bill Harrop) wear a hat.
What to bring: Don’t forget your camera and a data card with plenty of space or extra battery pack for your phone , as ballooning offers some most spectacular photo and video opportunities.
Fitness: Ballooning is suitable for adventurers from 7 – 70 (although our oldest passenger to date was 92 years old). Participants should be nimble, be able to jump unassisted from a height of 60cm and stand for the duration of the flight which is approximately one hour.

Frequency: Balloons go up every morning including weekends, weather permitting. We only require a minimum of 4 passengers to schedule a flight on any day of the week.

Flight Departure Point: Bill Harrop’s Balloon Safaris Skeerpoort Country Base near Hartebeesport Dam, 45 kilometers north-west of Johannesburg’s Northern suburbs.

Time: Just prior to sun-rise dependent on time of the year (see schedule below).

Hot Coffee, Tea, Biscuits and Muffins: Served as guests check in at our Clubhouse Pavilion before sunrise. Flight Numbers are assigned and tickets are validated.

Professional Crew Prepare the Balloons for Flight: Guests watch from the comfort of the Pavilion and are called to board when the balloons are ready. The Captains give a safety briefing prior to take off.

Flight duration: About one hour (dependent on conditions).

Flight Landing Place: Always in the shadow of the basket (wherever that may be).

South African Sparkling Wine: Served on landing while the crew pack up the balloon.

Mini-bus Transfer back to our Clubhouse Pavilion and Restaurant for: Sparkling Wine Breakfast
At Harrop’s, fully licensed, beautifully appointed Clubhouse Pavilion. Self-service buffet with selection of Continental and Hot Breakfast items to choose from, even order your eggs freshly prepared by the Kitchen Team.

“Citations For Bravery”: Presented with due ceremony.