Love is in the Air: Romantic Balloon Rides from Around the World

If you’ve ever been driving down the road, seen one or more hot-air balloons floating colorfully across the sky and thought, “I’d like to try that with my significant other,” this story is for you. It’s got everything you need to know before your inaugural flight as well as a roundup of some of the best global hot-air balloon adventures AAA Members can choose from while they’re exploring the world.

First flight

The first manned, untethered hot-air balloon flight took place in Paris in 1783. Made of paper and silk, the balloon carried two passengers for 25 minutes before landing safely about 5½ miles from the launching point. Since then, lighter-than-air flight has fueled the imaginations of adventurers, travelers and dreamers the world over. And while today’s hot-air balloons are made from high tech materials like ripstop nylon and polyester, they operate on the same principles that governed that first balloon flight in 1783.

Balloon tours around the world

If you’re making plans to visit one of the following scenic destinations, adding a balloon tour to your itinerary is a great way to introduce a romantic travel experience that’s sure to elevate your trip.

International destinations

Atacama Desert, Chile

Between the Andes and the Chilean Coast Range lies the thin stretch of the Atacama Desert, a perfect place for travelers to take hot air balloon rides in Chile. Floating above the desert, you’ll bear witness to one of the driest and most dramatic landscapes on earth. See miles of salt flats, the world’s tallest volcano and unexpected oases bursting with life. After your day exploring this otherworldly land by balloon, the high altitude with little cloud cover and almost no light pollution makes it the perfect place to stargaze the dazzling night sky.

When to Go: September – May

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Cappadocia, Turkey

Your trip to this captivating location in Turkey may include explorations of its underground cities (Derinkuyu and Kaymakli) and possibly even an excursion on horseback. Just be sure to book your hot air balloon tour in Cappadocia for an equally amazing experience.

Take to the skies on a sunrise balloon ride, and don’t be surprised if you’re accompanied by hundreds of other balloons in a stunning panorama of color. Marvel at this UNESCO World Heritage site full of cave dwellings, undulating river valleys and tall rock formations known as fairy chimneys in a striking landscape sculpted by thousands of years of erosion.

When to Go: April – October

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Loire Valley, France

Whether you’re drawn to France to experience the bustle, café culture and designer boutiques of its cities or you prefer to escape the crowds for the beauty of the countryside (or you plan to do a little of both), a trip to the Loire Valley offers luxurious hot air balloon tours in France. View enchanting castles, vineyards and quaint villages from above, including the spectacular Château de Chenonceau. Built in 1517, it’s a showpiece of Renaissance architecture perched on the banks of the Cher River.

When to Go: May – September

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Masai Mara, Kenya

Balloon safaris in Africa let you experience the continent’s iconic adventure from a completely new perspective. As the sun rises in fiery reds and golds, your unforgettable 3-day hot air balloon expedition launches from Masai Mara National Game Reserve.

Glide over a vast savannah teeming with more than 95 species of mammals and nearly 600 species of birds, and marvel at the rugged landscape unfolding below you. Consider taking your trip anytime July through October and you’ll have a prime opportunity to witness the Great Migration, when 1.4 million wildebeest (accompanied by hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles) move en masse into the Masai Mara.

When to Go: July – October or January – March

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Queenstown, New Zealand

With such diverse environments as the rolling hills of Matamata, the mountains of Methven, the woods of Lake Wakatipu and the deserts of Tongariro, the landscape of New Zealand inspires all who see it. Adventure awaits you on the shore of South Island’s Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown, a hub of activity. Y

our ballon excursion will feature breathtaking views of the South Island’s snow-capped Southern Alps, and you’ll fly over dramatic mountains and lush valleys, pristine lakes and rivers—all the more enjoyable with your sweetheart at your side.

When to Go: November – February

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Domestic destinations

Albuquerque, New Mexico

The stunning backdrop of desert vistas, distant mountains and the Rio Grande Valley gives a sunrise balloon ride in Albuquerque a magic all its own. For added excitement and color, schedule your romantic hot air balloon ride during the nine days of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta in early October.

You’ll be joined by like-minded travelers on more than 500 balloons in the world’s largest hot-air balloon festival, which also happens to be the most photographed event in the world. Once back on the ground, enjoy land-based activities including fireworks displays, live performances, New Mexico cultural exhibitions and a magical “Balloon Glow,” where hundreds of illuminated balloons light up the evening sky. For more information, speak with a knowledgeable AAA Travel Agent to help you plan the perfect trip or you can join a group trip offered through Inspiring Journeys by AAA.

When to Go: October 4 – 12, 2025

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Letchworth State Park, New York

Located in Western New York, Letchworth State Park is one of the most majestic areas in the eastern U.S. Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East” and featuring stunning gorge views, three major waterfalls and lush forests, it’s the perfect place for a serene and intimate balloon ride. Visit in fall to see the spectacular changing colors of foliage, and consider a stay at the nearby Glen Iris Inn, a historic and charming retreat.

When to Go: September – October

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7 things to know before you go

1. Is it safe? A balloon ride is one of the safest forms of travel. Hot-air balloon pilots in the United States must be at least 18 years old and have a minimum of 35 flight hours in balloons, 10 hours of advanced flight instruction and at least two 60-minute solo flights.
2. How many people does a balloon’s gondola hold? A small balloon typically holds two to four passengers. Medium and large balloons can hold more, and some commercial sightseeing balloons are large enough to hold two dozen people or more.
3. What’s the ride like? Be prepared for your high-flying adventure to feature an enjoyable mix of relaxation and excitement. The only bump on a typical flight comes with the landing.
4. What if the weather is bad? There’s always the possibility that high winds, rain or other events could cause your flight to be delayed by a few hours or even cancelled. Consider keeping a few alternative days available in case the flight needs to be rescheduled.
5. How is a hot-air balloon maneuvered? Although there is no steering in a traditional sense, hot-air balloons move with the air currents, so directional control is achieved by taking the balloon to different altitudes with different wind directions.
6. How much time do balloon rides take? Prep time before liftoff takes about an hour, after which your hot-air balloon will launch (as long as conditions are favorable). Pilot skill will play a big part in the duration and distance of your flight, but your guide should be able to give you a general idea of how long you’ll be airborne. Your balloon will probably be in radio contact with a ground crew that follows it via GPS as you travel. After you’ve landed in an open area, the balloon ground crew will arrive, break down the equipment, pack everything up and transport you back to the launch site.
7. How should I prepare for my flight? Get to sleep early the night before. Winds are most stable in the early mornings, so takeoff may be as early as 7 a.m. Pack light but don’t forget sunglasses, snacks, drinks and sunscreen. Dress in layers—the early morning air may be cold, but rays from the sun (not to mention the heat from the balloon’s burner) will warm things up in no time. Bring some sort of strap for your phone to ensure its safety when taking pictures. Visit the bathroom before takeoff.