Ghent: Hot Air Balloon Tour

Traveling through Belgium’s Flanders region offers endless charm, but viewing Ghent from the sky truly elevates the experience. This hot air balloon tour promises a peaceful yet exhilarating way to see one of Belgium’s most picturesque cities — and it’s one that many adventurers find remarkably rewarding. From the gentle ascent at dawn or dusk to the stunning panoramic views, this experience combines tranquility with a touch of thrill.

What draws us to this balloon ride? Firstly, the breathtaking sunrise views over Ghent are genuinely hard to beat. The peaceful silence of floating above the city adds a layer of serenity that’s rare to find. Secondly, the personal touch — small balloons with just 2-6 passengers — makes the whole journey intimate and special. Lastly, the comprehensive package including photos, champagne, and a personalized flight certificate provides great value for the price.

However, a potential consideration is the weather dependency; as with any hot air balloon experience, your flight is subject to suitable conditions, which could mean rescheduling if the sky isn’t cooperating. This might be frustrating for travelers with tight schedules, but safety always comes first.

This tour is best suited for those who crave a unique, peaceful perspective of Ghent with minimal crowds and a personal touch. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a memorable adventure that’s both scenic and relaxing.

Good To Know

• Stunning views of Ghent’s historic city center from the sky.
• Small group flights for a more intimate and personalized experience.
• High safety standards with an experienced pilot boasting over 900 flight hours.
• In-flight photos and a flight certificate add memorable keepsakes.
• Flexible scheduling with options for sunrise or sunset flights.
• Weather-dependent activity; flights may be canceled for safety reasons.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Ghent Hot Air Balloon Experience

The Setting and Atmosphere

Imagine starting your morning or winding down your evening with a gentle ascent into the sky. Ghent’s skyline, with its medieval spires, bridges, and rooftops, unfolds beneath you in a way that’s impossible to match from ground level. The experience begins with a pickup from your hotel or a designated meeting point, usually about 30 minutes before sunrise or at sunset, depending on the season. This early start ensures you catch the city awakening or enjoy its tranquil evening glow.

The launch site is set in a quiet, scenic spot, ensuring minimal distractions from urban noise. Once there, an experienced pilot — Kenian — conducts a safety briefing. With more than 900 hours of flight experience across 15 countries, you can trust that safety is prioritized, and the crew is well-trained. This reassurance is especially valuable if you’re new to ballooning or slightly nervous about heights.

The Flight Itself

The actual flight lasts around one hour, during which you’ll glide smoothly above Ghent’s historic center. Despite the brevity, the views are incredible. You’ll see the city’s UNESCO World Heritage sights, such as the Gravensteen Castle, St Bavo’s Cathedral, and the old medieval bridges, all laid out in spectacular detail.

During the flight, many guests mention how peaceful and almost meditative the experience is. The silence of the balloon drifting with the breeze creates a sense of calm, punctuated only by the occasional instructions from the pilot. The panoramic views stretch far beyond the city, offering vistas of the surrounding Flemish countryside, fields, and distant towns.

Photo Opportunities and Souvenirs

A highlight for many is the inflight picture taken by the crew, capturing the moment you’re floating high above Ghent. This is a nice touch, allowing you to remember the experience vividly. After landing, a champagne toast is served, accompanied by a small pastry breakfast. This traditional celebratory gesture adds a festive feeling to the adventure.

Back on the ground, you’ll receive a personal flight certificate, which makes a lovely keepsake and a tangible reminder of your time in the sky. The small-group setup enhances this personal experience, making the moment more special and less commercialized.

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The Logistics and Practical Details

The total duration of the activity, including pickups, safety briefing, flight, and post-flight celebrations, spans roughly 3.5 to 4 hours. While the flight itself is only about an hour, the entire process is thoughtfully paced, ensuring you’re not rushed.

Booking is flexible — you can reserve your spot now and pay later, which is ideal if you’re still finalizing your travel plans. Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is free, providing peace of mind. The activity is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a cozy, relaxed environment.

What to Bring & What to Expect

We recommend comfortable shoes and clothes, as temperatures can be cooler at higher altitudes, especially at dawn. A camera is essential for capturing the sweeping views, and binoculars can enhance your sightseeing from above. The crew will send weather updates the day before your flight, and if weather conditions are unsuitable, your booking can be rescheduled or refunded.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals most to those who enjoy scenic, tranquil activities and aren’t afraid of small aircraft. It’s great for couples celebrating something special, small groups of friends, or adventurous solo travelers. We wouldn’t recommend it for children under 4, pregnant women, or wheelchair users, as safety guidelines restrict these groups.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Given the inclusion of a full hour in the air, professional pilot expertise, photos, champagne toast, and a personal flight certificate, the $235 price tag reflects a premium experience. Compared to other aerial tours, this one stands out for its intimate size and focus on quality and safety. It’s not just about the flight but the overall ambiance and lasting memories.

Final Thoughts

This hot air balloon ride above Ghent combines the thrill of flying with the peace of floating over one of Belgium’s most photogenic cities. The early or late timing enhances the visual drama, whether it’s the glow of sunrise or sunset. The personal touches, like photos and a certificate, make it feel like a true celebration of your adventure.

If you’re after a memorable way to see Ghent from above, love gentle, scenic rides, and value small-group experiences, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s an authentic, peaceful escape into the sky — perfect for making your Belgian trip truly unforgettable.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for children?
Not for children under 4 years old. It’s best suited for older kids and adults who enjoy quiet, scenic activities.

How long does the entire activity last?
The full experience is about 3.5 to 4 hours, including pickups, safety briefing, the flight, and post-flight celebrations.

What if the weather isn’t good on my scheduled day?
If weather conditions are unsafe, your flight will be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll receive a full refund or a new slot.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, along with a camera and binoculars for the best sightseeing.

Can I book my flight now and pay later?
Yes, booking allows for reservation with a pay-later option, giving flexibility to your travel plans.

What’s included in the price?
Your package covers the one-hour flight, experienced pilot, ground crew, inflight photo, Champagne toast, flight certificate, non-alcoholic drinks, pastry breakfast, and transfers.

Are there any safety certifications or standards?
Yes, the pilot and crew adhere to safety protocols, with the pilot having over 900 hours of experience across multiple countries, ensuring a secure flight.

To sum it up, this Ghent hot air balloon tour offers a rare chance to see Belgium’s beautiful city from an entirely new perspective. It’s a peaceful, picturesque adventure that captures the essence of ballooning’s magic. Perfect for those who seek serenity, stunning vistas, and a touch of celebration in their travels.

You can check if your dates are available here: