Johannesburg: Hot Air Balloon Flight along Magalies Valley

If you’re searching for a unique way to see South Africa’s stunning landscapes, a hot air balloon safari over the Magalies River Valley might just be the adventure you need. While I haven’t personally flown in one (yet), countless travelers rave about the experience and the unforgettable views they get from above. From the smooth takeoff in the early morning to the celebratory toast upon landing, this tour offers a peaceful, exhilarating glimpse into the countryside that’s both relaxing and visually stunning.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the spectacular sunrise over the Magaliesburg Mountains creates a magical backdrop you’ll cherish long after your flight. Second, the comfortable, private transportation from Johannesburg makes the whole process seamless—no stress, no fuss. And third, the combination of flight and breakfast provides a well-rounded morning activity, perfect for travelers wanting a mix of adventure and culinary comfort.

A potential consideration is the weather dependency—since hot air balloons are highly sensitive to wind and weather conditions, your flight might be rescheduled or canceled if conditions aren’t ideal. That said, the team’s expertise and safety focus are evident, and they keep travelers well-informed. This tour suits those who are eager for an authentic, scenic adventure with excellent value, especially if you enjoy gentle, nature-focused experiences with a touch of luxury.

Key Points

• Stunning views of the Magalies River Valley at sunrise provide perfect photo opportunities.
• Convenient package includes round-trip transfers, breakfast, and a celebratory toast.
• Experienced guides and safe operations are confirmed by multiple positive reviews.
• Perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful yet adventurous outing.
• Weather-dependent: flights can be canceled or rescheduled based on conditions.
• Suitable for travelers over 7 years old, with some physical requirements.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary: From Johannesburg to the Skies

The tour kicks off with an early morning pickup from the ‘My Sandton City Stop’ at Sandton City Shopping Center. Traveling in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll enjoy the comfort of a personalized transfer to Hartbeespoort, a scenic 1-hour drive from Johannesburg. This journey already sets the tone for the day—relaxed, hassle-free, and ready for adventure.

Upon arrival at the Clubhouse Pavilion, you’re greeted with a warm welcome and a check-in process, where you’ll be assigned a flight number and receive your boarding ticket. This first step is crucial, as it ensures a smooth transition from ground to sky. The team’s professionalism here is evident, and the check-in process is efficient, leaving ample time to enjoy some pre-flight treats.

Pre-Flight: The Calm Before the Takeoff

While waiting for your balloon to be prepared, you’re encouraged to sip coffee or tea alongside some mini muffins—a cozy start that makes the experience feel indulgent rather than rushed. Watching the balloons being inflated is part of the charm, and many reviewers mention how photogenic this moment is. As Stuart, one of the guides, is known for taking plenty of photos—so don’t forget your camera or smartphone.

The Flight: Gentle Ascent and Breathtaking Views

Once the balloons are ready, you’ll be called to board. After a short safety briefing, you’ll climb into the basket—usually about 1350mm high, so somewhat modest but still offering expansive views. The flight lasts about an hour, giving ample time to soak in the scenery.

During the ascent, you’ll see the Magaliesburg Mountains and the lush river valley stretching beneath you, bathed in the warm glow of sunrise. Reviewers often mention how peaceful and surreal it feels to glide over the landscape, with many noting the excellent visibility and crisp morning air. The views are described as “absolutely out of this world,” and the scenery is a perfect mix of rugged mountains, flowing water, and patchwork farmland.

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Landing and Celebration

After about an hour, the balloon gently touches down—often in a designated landing zone. Here, you’ll be greeted with a glass of South African sparkling wine, a tradition that celebrates a successful flight and adds a festive touch. Multiple reviews highlight this moment as a fun, authentic way to toast your adventure, with many travelers praising the friendly, professional crew responsible for the landing.

Post-Flight: Breakfast and Relaxation

Following the toast, you’ll head back to the Clubhouse Pavilion to enjoy a buffet breakfast, offering both continental and hot options. The variety is usually well-received, with guests appreciating the chance to refuel after the flight. It’s a relaxed moment to chat about the experience, take photos, and savor the morning’s tranquility.

Return to Johannesburg

Once breakfast concludes, a return transfer takes you back to Johannesburg, where your driver will drop you off at the starting point. The entire experience—transport, flight, celebration, and breakfast—typically lasts around 4-5 hours, making it an ideal morning activity that leaves you plenty of time for other adventures later in the day.

What’s Included and What to Know

The package offers a lot of value, especially considering the memorable views and the smooth logistics. Included are round-trip transportation, private vehicle, bottled water, coffee and tea, mini muffins, and a 1-hour hot air balloon flight. The landing celebration with sparkling wine and a buffet breakfast wrap up the experience nicely.

It’s worth noting that the tour is not suitable for children under 7 years, pregnant women, or travelers with certain physical limitations—such as those unable to climb in and out of the basket unassisted, or stand for about an hour. The physical requirements are modest but worth considering if you have mobility concerns.

Weather and Cancellations

Since balloon flights depend heavily on weather conditions, there’s a possibility of rescheduling or cancellation if winds are too strong or conditions unsafe. The tour provider has a good reputation for safety and communication, so they’ll keep you informed. You can also cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, adding flexibility to your plans.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing—early mornings can be cool.
• Bring a camera to capture the incredible scenery.
• Arrive prepared for the physical aspect: be nimble enough to climb and jump from the basket’s height (around 60cm).
• Remember that the flight duration depends on weather, so be flexible with your schedule.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

People who have taken this tour often mention how knowledgeable guides like Stuart and others contribute to a safe, enjoyable experience. One reviewer highlighted how Stuart “took many pictures and videos,” ensuring everyone had memories to take home.

Another guest described the overall experience as “lovely” and appreciated the convenience of pickup and drop-off, which makes the whole morning feel effortless. The stunning views and the quality breakfast are consistently praised, making this a well-rounded experience for those looking to combine adventure with comfort.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This hot air balloon ride is ideal for nature lovers, romantic couples, or adventure seekers wanting a peaceful yet exhilarating experience. It’s perfect if you’re after a memorable morning that combines scenic beauty, gentle adventure, and a touch of local celebration.

It’s also great for those who value easy logistics—the included transfers and breakfast mean less planning hassle. However, it’s not suitable for very young children, pregnant travelers, or anyone with mobility issues. The weather dependency is also worth keeping in mind, so a flexible schedule helps.

The Sum Up

This hot air balloon experience over the Magalies Valley offers a combination of breathtaking scenery, professional guidance, and authentic South African hospitality. It’s a well-priced way to enjoy a peaceful dawn flight with the thrill of floating high above the landscape. The inclusion of breakfast and a toast adds a celebratory feel that rounds out the morning perfectly.

For those wanting an authentic aerial adventure with excellent reviews backing it up, this tour ticks all the right boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate scenic serenity, reliable service, and the chance to capture incredible photos from above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this hot air balloon tour?
It costs $345 per person, which includes transportation, flight, breakfast, and the celebratory toast.

How long does the entire experience last?
The full tour, including pickup, flight, breakfast, and return, typically takes around 4 to 5 hours.

Is the flight suitable for children?
Not for children under 7 years old due to safety and physical requirements.

Can I cancel if the weather isn’t good?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The flight depends on weather conditions, so rescheduling might be necessary if winds are unfavorable.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are recommended, especially since early mornings can be chilly.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
It requires participants to be able to climb in and out of the basket unassisted and stand for about an hour.

What’s included in the package?
Round-trip transportation, private vehicle, coffee and tea, mini muffins, a 1-hour flight, sparkling wine on landing, and a buffet breakfast.

How scenic is the flight?
Expect panoramic views of the Magaliesburg Mountains and river valley, bathed in sunrise light—truly picture-perfect.

Who is the tour provider?
The experience is offered by The Tour ist (Pty) Ltd, a reputable company with positive reviews for safety and service.

You can check availability for your dates here: