Bucket list experience:
Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Floating over the Dubai desert at sunrise in a hot air balloon is a magical experience; the chance to get a unique perspective on just how extensive the desert really is.
As the sun rises and its rays touch the surface of the dunes, the colours change from pale yellow to orange, and in some parts where the iron content is high, almost scarlet.
If you’re lucky, you might have some early morning mist; as it clears, the extraordinary landscape of rolling dunes is revealed. Keen-eyed viewers may also see groups of camels traversing the sands.
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Destination Guide >The flight itself takes about an hour, but allow around 4-5 hours for the whole experience including transfer time.
There are a number of hot air balloon operators. You can book direct or through a third-party agent as part of a wider desert experience.
Most packages include transfers to the take-off site from the city and breakfast, with optional add-ons such as photo sessions, video of your flight and falconry also available.
Take a sweater or something warm as it can feel chilly in the desert, and at high altitude in the mornings. A full safety briefing is given before take-off, and safety belts are worn for landing.
The ballooning season is generally September to May, weather permitting. Early morning fog or high winds can ground the balloons, but sometimes only lead to a delayed take-off, in which case you’ll have breakfast first and then fly.
Weekends and school holidays will be busier, so if you can avoid these times you’ll likely have more space in the basket.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Dubai offers year-round sun, sand and sea, with a unique combination of Arabian culture, mega-malls and audacious architecture.
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