If you’re looking for a stunning tour of Mpumalanga’s gorgeous landscape, this offer takes you to new heights. A hot air balloon ride in Hazyview gives you sweeping views of lush canyons, cascading waterfalls, snaking rivers, and the unmissable Kruger National Park in the distance.
Highlights
- Hot air balloon flight
- Stunning views of the Panorama Route
- See waterfalls from above
- Chance to spot wildlife and birdlife during the flight
Know before you book
- Not suitable for anyone who cannot stand unassisted
- Not recommended for young children
- All flights depend on safe weather conditions
- You’ll need your own transport to reach the take-off site
Mpumalanga, meaning “the place where the sun rises”, is located in the top corner of South Africa and is home to approximately half of the Kruger National Park. With its misty valleys, amazing forests, and the world’s third-deepest canyon, Mpumalanga is truly SA’s Paradise Province. Hot air balloon rides in Hazyview are the absolute best way to see the region.
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Hazyview Hot Air Balloon Prices 2026
If you’re looking to ride a hot air balloon in Mpumalanga and the surrounding areas, prices start at around US$198 (R3,360). But keep in mind that costs vary depending on the ride length and extras like food and drinks, so they can reach as much as US$1,274 (R21,830).
Check out the latest hot air balloon ride prices below:
Ballooning Prices & More Things to Do in Hazyview
One of the best ways to get a good view of the top Mpumalanga and Hayview attractions is from the air. Hot air balloon rides are an excellent option for your trip to the province. Ballooning is a memorable experience that offers a 720-degree view of breathtaking landscapes.
Most flights are an hour long and depart from just outside of Hazyview. This little town is one of Mpumalanga’s finest, as it is the gateway to Kruger National Park, and there are many exciting things to do in Hazyview, including an adrenaline rush at Hazyview Skyway Trails.
You can also stay close to Sabie, dubbed “the waterfall capital of South Africa”. Don’t leave without witnessing the famous Mac-Mac Falls. It’s situated in the middle of one of the largest man-made forests in the world, and to top it off, the epic Panorama Route is just next door.
Another great base for exploring Hazyview and Kruger National Park is Graskop. It’s an adventure waiting to unfold, with heart-pumping activities at the Big Swing in Graskop and out-of-this-world views at God’s Window. Book a self-catering lodge for an authentic stay.
Best Time to Go Hot Air Ballooning in Mpumalanga
Arguably, the best time to go on a hot air balloon ride in Mpumalanga is at sunrise. It’s when the sky lights up in a dazzling array of colours. As for the month, between September and November, is a great time. Not only are there fewer tourists, so you can soak up the sights and sounds of the wild, but the weather is pleasant, and there’s a lower chance of being rained out.
What to Expect on Hazyview Hot Air Balloon Flights
The balloon will take flight early in the morning, before the day starts getting too hot, but keep in mind that this Hazyview activity is very dependent on good weather conditions.
After taking off, you will journey along the Panorama Route of the Sabie River Valley with views of Kruger National Park in the distance. This route will give you unbelievable views of some of Mpumalanga’s most amazing sights.
You will be able to see the Blyde River Canyon, which is the third-largest canyon in the world. You may even be able to look through God’s Window overlooking the Mpumalanga Drakensberg Escarpment.
The pilot usually flies fairly low to guarantee the best possible view of the landscape and wildlife.
You may be able to spot a vast range of animals, including:
- Klipspringer
- Dassies
- Grey Rhebuck
- Oribi
- Bushbuck (which usually gather on the riverbanks).
Mpumalanga’s expansive landscape is also home to every species of South Africa’s primates, including Vervet monkeys, Chacma baboons, greater and lesser bushbabies, and the Samango monkey. Birds are in no short supply either, and you may be able to spot the three species of loerie that live in South Africa.
Following your balloon ride, you are given breakfast with the pilot at a nearby resort, where you can toast the memories of your trip.
You can also experience this stunning landscape on foot with a tour of the Panorama Route. There is also a spectacular cruise along the Blyde River with a tour of the valley.
Flying in a hot air balloon is an idyllic experience straight out of a picture book. Ballooning offers you the best seat in the house as you admire the natural wonders on offer in this stunning province.
Our Top Picks for Mpumalanga Hot Air Balloon Rides
Just so you know what to expect, let’s have a quick look at the top ballooning tours on offer.
Pilanesberg National Park/Sun City Hot Air Balloon Safari
Get ready to explore the bountiful ecosystem of Pilanesberg National Park from above. Starting at Sun City, you’ll be taken to the center of the Pilanesberg National Park, where your aerial chariot awaits.
Throughout your hour-long flight, you’ll have the chance to spot the Big 5. You’ll be able to see these majestic creatures from the sky, a view we know all too well from nature documentaries, but it’s something rarely experienced in person.
- Hotel pick up from Sun City Resort or Lodges in Pilanesberg, excluding Black Rhino Lodge
- 1-hour hot air balloon flight
- Sparkling wine or orange juice on landing
- Full English breakfast at a private lodge
- Accommodation
- Gratuities
The tour starts bright and early. After pickup, you’re transported to the national park in an open safari vehicle. If you’re visiting for the day, a pick-up from the Bakubung Gate can be arranged. At the launch site, you’ll get a quick briefing, and you’re ready for takeoff.
After landing, you’ll have a glass of bubbly or some OJ to celebrate the flight. Your field guide drives you to a private lodge where your classic English breakfast awaits.
Early Morning Balloon Safari with Breakfast from Magaliesburg
If you want to glide over the famous Cradle of Humankind, then this hot air balloon safari is made for you. Starting at Bill Harrop’s launch site near Hartbeespoort Dam, you’ll enjoy an adrenaline-filled adventure through the sky.
Hartbeespoort is also a short 36-minute drive from the Jacaranda City, making a hot air balloon ride one of the best things to do in Pretoria. Add the fact that this early morning flight includes a delightful breakfast, and you’ll soon see there’s no better way to start your day in South Africa.
- 1-hour hot air balloon flight
- Full buffet breakfast
- Sparkling wine or orange juice
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
This Magaliesburg hot air balloon ride kicks off early. You’ll meet the team at Bill Harrop’s launch site in Skeerpoort, then take off to soaring heights. On the flight, you have the opportunity to spot the aerial views of the Magaliesburg Mountains and the famous Cradle of Humankind.
It’s only an hour ride, but allocate about 4 to 5 hours for the meet and greet, post-flight beverages, transfer to the breakfast spot, and of course, time to snap amazing pictures.
FAQs About Hot Air Balloon Ride Prices in Hazyview
Now that you know what to expect from hot air balloon rides and their prices, let’s address some questions you might still have. Here are answers to some of the most common ones we get.
How Much Is the Hot Air Balloon in Hazyview?
Hot air balloon ride prices vary, depending on flight length and extras such as food and beverages. Expect to pay anything between US$198 (R3,360) and US$1,274 (R21,830).
Is There a Hot Air Balloon in Kruger National Park?
You cannot take a hot air balloon ride inside the Kruger National Park, but you can book a flight from an operator who can fly over private game reserves that adjoin the national park. These are typically based in nearby areas such as Hazyview, Hoedspruit, Sabie, and Graskop.
What Month Is Best for a Hot Air Balloon?
The best months to enjoy a hot air balloon ride are in the spring, from September to November. This time provides pleasant weather, with cool mornings, sunny days, and not much rain.
How to Dress for a Hot Air Balloon Ride?
Most hot air balloon flights take off early in the morning, so the chances of it being chilly are high. Wear layers, a light jacket, long pants to brave the elements, and don’t forget your boots.
What’s the Best Time of Day for Hot Air Ballooning?
The most ideal time of day to take off on a hot air balloon is right before sunrise. Depending on the time of the month, sunrise in spring could be between 5 am and 6:15 am. Most operators want you to be there two to three hours before, for the meet and greet, and induction briefing.
- Experience the gorgeous Mpumalanga landscape
- Safe 1-hour flight
- Breakfast included (if stated)
- Time for afternoon activities
- Weather-dependent
- No hotel pick-up/drop-off (unless stated otherwise)
Specification: Hot Air Balloon Hazyview Prices 2026 | Top Mpumalanga Tours
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Ove –
Balloon flight: A must do activity. Excellent pilot and a tremendous experience. Night drive/safari: Got to see 10 lions on a kill. Very god guide and driver. Came very close to a lot of animals.