Ghent: Hot Air Balloon Tour

If you’re looking for a special way to get an aerial perspective of Ghent, this hot air balloon experience might just be what you need. While I haven’t personally floated above Ghent in a balloon, I’ve come across enough reviews and details to give a clear picture of what this tour offers. It’s an adventure that promises breathtaking views, a peaceful float over the city, and some lovely touches like a champagne toast and a flight certificate to take home.

What really caught our eye is how personal and small-scale these balloon rides are—only 2 to 6 passengers per balloon. That means you’re not just another face in a crowd; you get a more intimate, relaxed experience. Plus, the chance to see Ghent at sunrise or sunset can turn a typical sightseeing day into something truly unforgettable. One thing to keep in mind: weather conditions are a key factor, and flights can be canceled for safety reasons, which is worth knowing if you’re on a tightly scheduled trip.

This tour is best suited for those who love quiet, scenic moments and are open to a gentle, slightly adventurous activity. It’s not ideal for very young children or pregnant women, but for adults seeking a different perspective on Ghent, it can be a highlight. Now, let’s take a closer look at what makes this experience stand out — and whether it might be worth a spot on your travel list.

Key Points

• Breathtaking sunrise or sunset views over Ghent offer a peaceful, visually stunning experience.
• The small group size ensures a personal touch and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Safety and experience are prioritized, with a pilot boasting over 900 hours flying across 15 countries.
• The flight includes a champagne toast and a flight certificate, adding a celebratory and souvenir element.
• The tour lasts around 3.5 hours, with the flight itself about an hour.
• It’s suitable for those comfortable with heights and quiet mornings or evenings, but not for young children or pregnant travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Ghent Hot Air Balloon Experience

If you’re considering floating gently above Ghent, what can you really expect? First and foremost, the experience is designed to be as scenic and peaceful as possible. You’ll set out early in the morning or later in the day, depending on whether you choose sunrise or sunset. The timing is crucial; you usually meet about 30 minutes before sunrise, so it requires a bit of an early start, but the view makes it worthwhile.

The Launch and Safety Briefing

Once you arrive at the launch site—often arranged with pick-up from your hotel or a nearby point—a safety briefing is the first thing on the agenda. The pilot, Kenian, with his impressive 900+ flying hours in over 15 countries, makes you feel well taken care of. Safety is clearly taken seriously, and this helps ease any nerves. After the briefing, you’ll help prepare the balloon, which is part of the fun, especially if you’re curious about how balloons work.

The Flight Itself

In the air, you’ll float over Ghent’s UNESCO-listed city center, soaking in views that are hard to beat. The gentle movement of the balloon, combined with the soft glow of the sun, creates a tranquil atmosphere. It’s a time to take photos, enjoy the silence, or just breathe in the scenery. Several reviews mention how stunning the views are, especially at sunrise. One reviewer noted, “The sight of Ghent waking up below us was magical—so quiet, so peaceful.”

The flight lasts about an hour, which is enough time to get a real sense of the city’s layout without feeling rushed. The experience is intimate, with only a few passengers in each balloon, allowing for a relaxed conversation and personal attention.

The Celebration and Souvenirs

After landing, the celebration continues with a champagne toast and a pastry breakfast. It’s a lovely way to mark the moment, and it adds a touch of festivity to the experience. You’ll also receive a personal flight certificate, making it a meaningful keepsake of your adventure. Many reviews highlight how these small details elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing.

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The Return and Flexibility

The tour concludes with a safe return to the launch site or your pickup point. The total duration, including transportation, briefings, and the flight, is about 3-4 hours. Flexibility is built in; if weather conditions aren’t suitable, your booking can be transferred to another time or refunded, which is reassuring if you’re planning around uncertain weather.

What Makes This Experience Stand Out?

The stunning views are, without doubt, the highlight. Floating above a historic city at dawn or dusk creates an awe-inspiring perspective. Several reviews mention how the early morning light adds a special glow to Ghent’s architecture, making it ideal for photography enthusiasts.

The personal approach is another strong point. With small group sizes and a pilot experienced across continents, you’re in capable hands. The added touches—champagne, pastries, and a flight certificate—make it feel like a celebration, not just a ride.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers who enjoy peaceful, scenic moments and are looking for a bucket-list adventure. It’s a perfect fit for those who want a unique perspective on Ghent but aren’t expecting an adrenaline rush. Keep in mind, it’s not suited for very young children, pregnant women, or wheelchair users, as safety and comfort are priorities.

Cost-Value Analysis

At $235 per person, this isn’t a cheap outing, but considering the personal size of the balloons, the expertise of the pilot, and the inclusions like champagne and certificates, many find it justifiable. It’s not just about the flight but the whole experience—the anticipation, the views, and the celebration afterward.

Practical Tips for Your Balloon Ride

• Dress comfortably and in layers—mornings can be cool, especially at altitude.
• Bring your camera and binoculars to make the most of the panoramic views.
• Arrive early for the safety briefing and to help set up the balloon.
• Be prepared for possible cancellations due to weather; your flexibility will be appreciated.
• If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking precautions, as the balloon moves gently but can sway slightly.
• Remember, small balloons mean a more intimate experience, but also that weight limits and passenger numbers are restricted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This experience is generally not suitable for children under 4 years old, mainly because of safety regulations and the quiet, delicate nature of the flight.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
You can reserve now and pay later, which gives you some flexibility. However, availability depends on weather and demand, so booking ahead is wise.

What if the weather is bad?
If conditions aren’t safe, the flight will be canceled, and you’ll be offered another slot or a full refund. Weather can change quickly, so it’s best to be flexible.

How long does the entire experience last?
Including pickup, safety briefing, the flight itself, and post-flight celebrations, expect about 3.5 hours total.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll get a 1-hour flight, a flight certificate, inflight pictures, champagne toast, pastries, non-alcoholic drinks, and insurance.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the balloons are small, with only 2-6 passengers per flight, ensuring a more personal experience.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable clothes, shoes, a camera, and binoculars are recommended. Dress in layers to stay warm at altitude.

How far in advance should I book?
Since availability depends on weather and demand, booking several weeks ahead is a good idea to secure your preferred date.

Wrapping Up

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic, and slightly adventurous way to see Ghent, this hot air balloon tour ticks a lot of boxes. The views at sunrise or sunset are truly splendid, and the small-group format makes it feel special rather than touristy. The added touches like champagne and a flight certificate turn a simple flight into a memorable event.

While it’s not the cheapest activity, the quality of the experience—personalized service, stunning scenery, and a sense of occasion—makes it worth considering. Just be sure to check the weather forecast and be flexible with your plans, as safety always comes first.

This tour is best suited for those who love quiet mornings or evenings, want a unique perspective on a beautiful city, and are comfortable with a gentle, floating adventure. If that sounds like you, it could be the highlight of your trip to Ghent.

You can check availability for your dates here: