Ballooning tours in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, offer a unique and breathtaking way to experience the Australian Outback. As you gently float above the landscape, you'll witness the morning light illuminating the rugged West MacDonnell Ranges and the vibrant colors of the desert coming alive. Outback Ballooning, Australia's only balloon company specializing in remote Outback operations, provides flights that take off near dawn, allowing you to see the Outback from up to 1,000 feet above the desert. The tour begins with a road trip in the cool predawn from your accommodation to the launch site, where you'll stand under clear star-filled skies as the balloons are inflated.
During the flight, you'll spot native wildlife such as wallabies and red kangaroos, and notice the fascinating patterns and shapes of the landscape. Thirty-minute and 60-minute flights are available over Alice Springs, and if you prefer to stay closer to the ground, you can choose the 'chase and breakfast' tour, which follows the balloons to meet passengers at the landing site for breakfast. Upon landing, passengers are served refreshments, champagne, and tropical fruit juice cocktails, providing an opportunity to take in the desert tranquility. The tour takes approximately 4 hours, and hotel pick-up and drop-off are included. Local operators are friendly, experienced, and knowledgeable, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.