By: Natasha Archary

Looking for a memorable end to the year?
Consider a hot air balloon adventure with your family, or significant other at Bill Harrop’s Original Balloon Safaris.
Just 45km north of Johannesburg’s northern suburbs, is the longest established licensed Balloon Airline in Southern Africa.
Tucked away in the heart of the Magalies River Valley and nestled within the gorgeous scenic landscape, the thrill of adventure awaits.
I was fortunate enough to experience this for myself, and after Zakes Bantwini introduced his new single with a performance on a hot air balloon in Tanzania, I can safely attest to this being a bucket list adventure.
There’s something magical about rising into the sky, beating the sun up, as most hot air balloon adventures take off before the crack of dawn.
What can you expect?
Weather permitting, you may have your hot air balloon flight rescheduled a number of times for your safety.
When you eventually get confirmation that your flight can go according to plan, you will have an early drive to the Skeerpoort location.
The silence of the extremely early morning was punctuated only by the occassional blast of the powerful burners from the balloon.
Expect to feel the residual heat from the burners which can be a welcome relief against the cool chill of the valley air.
You will rise, rapidly but under the capable and experienced hands of your captain, it will be a smooth climb up within minutes, in a balloon that is close to 650kg.


Prepare yourself for new heights
Prepare yourself for new heights, quite literally, the hot air balloon reaches altitudes approximately 365m above ground, with 360º views of the breathtaking Magalies River snaking between lush green on one side and on the other, one of the oldest mountain range in the world, the Magaliesberg.
It’s only when you’re that high that you realize just how finite you are in the grander scheme of things.
The valley stretches on for what seems like forever.
The flight ends with the hot air balloon gradually making a descent towards land, coming to rest with crew waiting on hand to pack up the balloon.


This is definitely one for the record books, a true bucketlist adventure and one I will hold onto fondly.
Packages are reasonable, and this impressive balloon safari could be one of the more special date ideas that you plan.
It would be perfect to pop the question up on cloud nine and I’m sure with a little planning, the crew and staff would be happy to accommodate your requests.
Give this a go if you are looking for something different to do over the holidays and are feeling a little daring.



