If you’re dreaming of floating quietly above Western Australia’s countryside at sunrise, this Avon Valley hot air balloon experience might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally floated in one, I’ve read plenty of reviews and gathered all the details to help you decide whether this peaceful adventure suits your travel style.
One thing that immediately caught my eye was how many people rave about the stunning views and friendly crew. The idea of being part of an ancient sport, gently drifting over farmland as the sun rises, feels like a perfect way to start a day in WA. On the flip side, it’s not an experience for everyone—weather plays a big role, and you’ll need to be comfortable with early mornings. If you’re someone who loves serene, scenic outings and doesn’t mind the early wake-up call, this could be a memorable highlight.
This tour works especially well for couples, small groups, or anyone craving a quiet, picture-perfect morning. It’s less suited for those looking for a high-energy activity or traveling with very young kids, given age and weight restrictions. But for those who want a gentle, photo-worthy adventure, it’s worth considering.
Key Points
- Peaceful and scenic: Floating over farmland at sunrise offers breathtaking views and a calm atmosphere.
- Educational and engaging: You can opt to help set up the balloon, connecting you more deeply with the experience.
- Expert-led: The guides and pilots are knowledgeable and friendly, making safety and comfort a priority.
- Flexible weather policy: Flights are canceled if weather isn’t suitable, but rescheduling is straightforward with prior notice.
- Includes breakfast: A hearty buffet afterward caps off the morning perfectly.
- Limited for some travelers: Not suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or those over 130 kg.
What to Expect from the Experience
The adventure begins just before dawn in Northam, a charming town in the Avon Valley. You’ll meet the crew at the Farmers Home Hotel, also known as the DOME cafe, which offers convenient parking options. From there, a short drive takes you to the launch site—each day’s location varies to ensure the best conditions, so you get a different view every time.
Inflation takes about 30 minutes, where you’ll see the balloon come to life, and if you’re interested, you can get involved—helping with the setup adds a touch of hands-on fun. Once everything’s ready, you’ll climb aboard, and the gentle ascent begins. The flight lasts around an hour, with the balloon drifting effortlessly in the wind.
During your flight, views of the waking countryside unfold beneath you. Expect to see open farmland, patches of native bush, and the distant horizon glowing with the early sunlight. The experience is described as “magical” and “smooth,” with no feeling of height sickness, thanks to the gentle nature of ballooning. One reviewer even noted that the landing was “a gentle touch-down,” which speaks to the professionalism of the pilots.
After landing, the team often invites guests to help with packing up the balloon—a fun, interactive way to conclude the flight, although it’s optional. Then, it’s back to Northam for a buffet breakfast that’s described as “adequate,” providing a satisfying end to the morning.
Planning more time in Northam? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Full Itinerary Breakdown
The tour starts at 112 Fitzgerald St E in Northam, a central location with easy parking. From there, a 30-minute coach ride takes you to the launch site, where the ballooning begins. After about 2.5 hours of flying, including inflation, the actual flight, and landing, you’ll return to your starting point, completing the 4-hour experience.
This structure makes for a relaxed morning, with plenty of time to appreciate the scenery and enjoy the company of fellow travelers. The flexible scheduling and weather-dependent nature mean that your day might shift slightly, but the team always aims to keep you informed and comfortable.
What the Reviews Say
The feedback on this experience is overwhelmingly positive, with a 4.8 out of 5 rating from 33 reviews. Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and stunning sunrise views. One reviewer mentioned, “The sunrise views were gorgeous, and the ride was surprisingly smooth,” which captures the essence of what most people enjoy.
Another review appreciated the friendly staff and professionalism, stating, “The entire team made it feel easy—from check-in to the ground crew, driver, and pilots.” It’s clear that safety and customer service are priorities.
While most reviews are glowing, a few mention minor drawbacks. For example, one person felt the post-flight breakfast could be hotter, but that’s a small quibble compared to the overall experience. The landing on an airstrip runway was noted as less enjoyable by one guest, but they still found the overall experience worthwhile.
Practical Details and Considerations
This tour is pretty well-structured for those who thrive on early mornings and peaceful outdoor moments. The timed nature (about 4 hours in total) makes it manageable for most travelers, and the inclusion of breakfast offers a pleasant finishing touch.
Pricing is generally seen as good value when you consider the effort involved—early wake-up, the novelty of ballooning, and the scenic views. Plus, the ability to reserve now and pay later adds flexibility, especially if your plans might shift.
One thing to keep in mind: if you’re pregnant, over 130 kg, or under 6 years old, this experience isn’t suitable. It’s also weather-dependent, so if the forecast isn’t cooperative, your flight will be rescheduled, but the team seems accommodating with this process.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Will Love This Tour?
This experience is a solid pick for romantic couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers seeking serenity and stunning visuals. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a gentle adventure and appreciate the thrill of flying in a hot air balloon without the adrenaline rush or height fears.
If you’re a photographer, the early morning light and scenic landscape offer fantastic opportunities for capturing memorable shots. It’s also a wonderful way to connect with the landscape of Western Australia in a quiet, contemplative way.
However, if you’re after a high-energy activity or traveling with very young kids, this might not be the best fit. The quiet, slow pace isn’t suited to kids under 6, and the early start might be less appealing for some.
Perth: Avon Valley Hot Air Balloon Flight with Breakfast
FAQs
What time does the tour start?
Meet in Northam at around 1 hour before sunrise, with the exact time depending on the day. Starting times are listed during booking.
How long is the actual balloon flight?
Expect about an hour of floating in the sky, with additional time for setup and landing.
Is the experience suitable for children?
Children under 6 years old aren’t eligible. It’s best suited for older kids and adults who enjoy peaceful outdoor activities.
What should I wear?
Weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Mornings can be cool, so layer up.
What happens if the weather isn’t suitable?
Flights are canceled if weather conditions aren’t safe. You can reschedule without hassle, and the team keeps you informed.
Can I help with the setup?
Yes, you can choose to participate in the inflation and packing—adding an interactive element to your adventure.
The Perth Avon Valley hot air balloon experience offers a calm, picturesque way to see Western Australia from a new perspective. The combination of a gentle flight, knowledgeable guides, and a satisfying breakfast makes it a well-rounded outing. It’s especially suited for those who cherish quiet, scenic mornings and aren’t fussed about waking up early.
If you’re chasing a peaceful adventure that’s more about savoring the moment than adrenaline, this balloon ride might be just the ticket. It’s a chance to see the landscape in its soft morning glow, with the added bonus of friendly, professional staff ensuring safety and comfort.
For travelers wanting a memorable, scenic start to their day in WA, this experience is definitely worth considering. Just keep in mind the weather reliance and the age restrictions—but if those aren’t issues, you’ll be in for a treat.
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