Discover South Italy in Hot air Balloons

Few experiences evoke a sense of wonder quite like floating peacefully above a landscape, and this hot air balloon tour in Apulia promises exactly that. While we haven’t taken this particular journey ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what to expect. It’s an adventure that seamlessly blends awe-inspiring views, local flavors, and a touch of genuine southern charm.

What immediately appeals to us is how this experience offers an authentic taste of South Italy — from panoramic vistas of fields and historic towns to the opportunity to toast your flight with local wine. The safety and professionalism of the exclusively authorized “LSI” airline reassure us that your journey will be both memorable and secure. One consideration is that the early morning departure times might not suit night owls or those with early plans, but for sunrise lovers, this is prime ballooning time. This tour strikes a great balance for travelers craving a unique, scenic, and culturally rich adventure — perfect for couples, solo travelers, or anyone eager to see Apulia from a fresh perspective.

Good To Know

• Authentic South Italy views: Expect sweeping panoramas of fields, towns, and coastline.
• Exclusive operator: The only authorized hot air balloon company in southern Italy, ensuring safety and quality.
• Delicious local food: Conclude with a tasty breakfast featuring regional specialties and wine.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance with full refunds.
• Weather-dependent: Flights are scheduled at sunrise or sunset, with some cancellations possible due to weather.
• All ages and mobility: Not suitable for pregnant women, children under 4’3″, or those with mobility issues.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Essence of the Hot Air Balloon Ride

This tour is designed as a flying journey that captures the spirit of South Italy’s landscape and culture. You’ll begin early, as balloon flights typically take off shortly after sunrise or a few hours after sunset — these times offer the best weather conditions and the most stunning lighting for photographs. The flight lasts about an hour, but the entire experience including preparation and landing takes approximately 3 hours.

Since the balloon has no rudder and travels with the wind, every flight is unpredictable yet uniquely captivating. The sensation of drifting over the countryside, with the sun rising or dipping, makes for a truly mesmerizing experience. As one reviewer noted, “Every experience is unique,” because no two flights follow the same path, giving you a sense of adventure and discovery.

The Launch and Preparation

The tour kicks off at Via Lucana, 82, where you’ll arrive 15 minutes early for a safety briefing. The crew, led by expert pilots, is praised for their friendliness and professionalism—many reviews mention how thorough and reassuring the safety instructions are. The assembly of the balloon takes about 35 minutes, a fascinating process that involves inflating the massive fabric envelope with cold air, then heating it to lift off.

Once the balloon is upright and ready, you’ll step into the basket, which can hold a small group of passengers. Expect a gentle 10-minute heating process to reach the necessary 100°C temperature for ascent. From there, your climb into the sky begins, and the views start unfolding.

The Flight Itself

During the flight, you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas—rolling fields of wheat, historic towns, and possibly coastal views depending on your route. The experience is often described as peaceful and surreal, with many noting the silence and the gentle movement with the wind. One reviewer shared, “It’s something halfway between the speed of the wind and the lightness of the air,” capturing the delicate balance that makes ballooning so special.

While the route’s exact path is uncertain, the chase crew follows your balloon in a jeep, ready for a quick and smooth landing. Weather and wind conditions influence the length of your flight, but generally, you’ll get around an hour in the air.

Post-Landing Celebrations

After touching down, a common highlight is celebrating with regional wine and snacks, offering a joyful conclusion to your flight. Many guests appreciate this authentic touch, as it’s a relaxed way to share stories and toast your adventure. You’ll also receive a flight certificate—a lovely keepsake to remind you of your high-flying day.

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The Return and Optional Breakfast

The tour wraps up with a brief drive back to the starting point, typically via a jeep or SUV. About 30 minutes after landing, you’ll head to a local restaurant for a breakfast, which often features regional delicacies and, of course, more local wine or bubbly. This is a fantastic opportunity to relax, share your experience, and indulge in Apulian cuisine.

Pricing and Value

At $339.86 per person, the price might seem steep at first glance, but it reflects an all-inclusive experience—covering transportation, safety, professional guidance, the flight itself, and the post-flight breakfast. When you consider the uniqueness of the experience, the breathtaking views, and the exclusive operator, it offers good value for those seeking a memorable adventure.

What to Wear and Bring

• Comfortable shoes: Expect to walk a bit during setup and after landing.
• Multiple layers: Mornings can be chilly or cold, even in southern Italy.
• Water: Hydration is key.
• ID or passport: Required for booking and safety purposes.
• Avoid: Luggage or large bags, sleeveless shirts, and video or camera recording—though photos are often allowed before and after flight.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience isn’t suitable for pregnant women, children under 4’3″ (130cm), or guests with mobility impairments. It’s geared toward travelers who enjoy scenic adventures, gentle rides, and authentic regional experiences. If you’re a lover of stunning landscapes, peaceful moments, and local culinary delights, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip.

Start at Via Lucana, 82: A convenient meeting point in Apulia, accessible and well-organized, setting the stage for the day ahead.

Safety briefing at the visitor center: Expect a 10-minute detailed talk from professional guides, emphasizing safety and addressing questions, which many reviews praise for clarity and friendliness.

Jeep/SUV transfer to launch site: A short 10-minute ride to the launch area, offering a quick preview of the countryside you’ll see from above.

Balloon flight: The highlight, lasting around an hour, where you’ll glide over fields, towns, or coastlines. Guests often comment on the tranquil beauty and the feeling of floating.

Post-flight celebration: Toast with local wine and snacks, providing a relaxed and convivial atmosphere. Many guests mention how special this part is, making the entire experience feel authentic and personal.

Breakfast at a local restaurant: An optional but highly recommended part, featuring regional dishes and more regional wine, perfect for sharing stories and relaxing after your flight.

Return to starting point: The day ends back at Via Lucana, with plenty of opportunities to reflect on your aerial adventure.

What sets this tour apart is its authenticity. As the only authorized hot air balloon operator in southern Italy, “LSI” ensures safety and professionalism, which is reassuring for travelers unfamiliar with ballooning. The inclusion of regional wine and local breakfast highlights the cultural richness of Apulia, making this more than just a scenic ride—it’s a culture.

Guests consistently mention the delicious food and tapas served after the flight, adding a flavorful touch to the adventure. The opportunity to toast your flight and connect with fellow travelers makes the experience feel warm and genuine.

This hot air balloon tour in Apulia offers a rare chance to see South Italy from a perspective few get to enjoy. It combines the thrill of gentle flight with unforgettable views, regional cuisine, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The experience is well-suited for those seeking a peaceful, scenic escape with a touch of adventure.

While the price may seem high, the inclusion of transportation, safety, food, and a memorable flight make it a worthwhile splurge for special occasions or travelers eager for a story worth telling. It’s best for those who don’t mind early mornings, love authentic regional experiences, and appreciate the quiet majesty of floating above Italy’s stunning countryside.

If you’re after a serene, picturesque adventure that captures the essence of Southern Italy—this tour will not disappoint.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally not suitable for children under 4’3″ (130cm), and families with young children should consider this before booking.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and layered clothing are recommended because mornings can be cool, and temperatures may warm up during the flight.

Can I record the experience on video or photos?
Video recording isn’t allowed during the flight, but photos before and after are typically permitted, so you can still capture the moments.

What happens if the weather cancels the flight?
Flights are weather-dependent. If canceled due to weather or technical reasons, you can reschedule or get a full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

How long does the entire experience last?
Including preparation, flight, and post-flight activities, the entire experience is about 3 hours, with the flight itself approximately one hour.

Is this experience physically demanding?
No, it’s a gentle, seated experience. However, it’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes and be able to stand for short periods.

Do I need to bring my own food or drinks?
No, food and drinks are included, featuring regional specialties and local wine or bubbly after your flight.

In the end, this hot air balloon ride offers not just a scenic flight but a full culture into the beautiful region of Apulia. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable adventure, it’s a worthwhile addition to any southern Italy trip.

You can check if your dates are available here: