Perth to Northam: Balloon flight including shuttle bus

If you’re dreaming of floating gently in the sky at sunrise with a view of Western Australia’s countryside, this ballooning experience might catch your eye. While we haven’t tried it ourselves, the reviews paint a picture of a pretty special morning adventure that offers more than just a flight — it’s about peaceful vistas, friendly guides, and a sense of achievement.

What really caught our attention are two things during our research: first, how many travelers rave about the stunning panoramic views of the Avon Valley—a truly unique way to see the countryside waking up. Second, the knowledgeable guides and crew seem to make the whole process smooth, from setup to landing. One thing to consider is the early start time—meeting as early as 2 AM—so if you’re not an early riser, it’s something to note.

For those who love quiet, scenic mornings, or want a memorable experience that’s both relaxing and a little adventurous, this tour appears to hit the mark. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or anyone eager to tick a classic ballooning adventure off their list in a gorgeous setting. If you’re after a peaceful, picture-worthy ride with friendly service, this could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Expect breathtaking views of the Avon Valley in the soft glow of sunrise.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Ballooning is gentle, peaceful, and suitable for all ages above 6.
• Hand-On Experience: You can participate in setting up the balloon if you wish.
• All-Inclusive: Shuttle transport, a scenic drive, the flight, and a buffet breakfast are included.
• Weather-Dependent: Flights depend heavily on weather conditions; cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t right.
• Flexible Scheduling: Meeting times vary from early morning to late, based on sunrise, and can change last minute.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect: A Day in the Sky and on the Ground

This tour offers a well-structured 7-hour experience that balances adventure, comfort, and good old-fashioned sightseeing. You’ll start by meeting in Perth, at the Burswood Park Board beside the main outdoor car park at Crown Complex. From there, a mini bus whisks you away on an approximately 80-minute scenic drive into the Avon Valley, an area renowned for its natural beauty.

Early Morning Pickup and Scenic Drive

The pickup is conveniently arranged, with travelers being collected around 2:00 to 3:55 AM, depending on the season. Meeting point details are clear, and the early start is necessary because balloon flights are all about catching the sunrise—when the sky’s most magical hues appear. During the drive, guides typically share interesting tidbits about the region, setting the mood for what’s to come.

Northam and Preparation

Once in Northam, you’ll meet the pilot and crew at the cozy Dome Cafe. This is where the real prep begins: inflating the balloon, checking safety measures, and getting everyone involved, if they want to help. The half-hour setup period is part of the fun, especially if you enjoy a hands-on experience.

The Balloon Flight Itself

After pre-flight instructions, everyone climbs into the basket, and then it’s up, up, and away for about an hour. The flight is described as gentle—no intense heights or bouncing around—and the views are widely regarded as spectacular. You’ll see the waking countryside bathed in the early sunlight, which offers some truly photo-worthy moments.

Passengers consistently mention the peacefulness of floating in the wind and the feeling of being connected to the landscape below. It’s a quiet, almost meditative experience, with no rush and plenty of time to soak in the scenery.

More Great Tours Nearby

Post-Flight and Breakfast

Landing is a relaxed affair; the pilot will choose a suitable field, and if you’re up for it, you can lend a hand in packing up the balloon. It’s a neat way to connect with the process and learn a bit more about this age-old sport. Afterward, everyone heads back to Northam for a well-earned buffet breakfast at the Dome Cafe, inside the Farmers Home Hotel. The breakfast rounds off the morning nicely, providing a cozy atmosphere to reflect on the flight.

Detailed Breakdown of the Day

Pickup and Departure:
– Pick up from Burswood Park beside Kagoshima Park Car Park on Glenn Place.
– Early morning, variable times depending on season (as early as 2 AM).
– The drive to Northam is about 80 minutes, giving you a chance to rest or chat with fellow travelers.

In Northam:
– Meet the crew at the Dome Cafe.
– Prepare the balloon — a half-hour process where you can observe or help inflate and set up the balloon.

The Flight:
– Duration: About 1 hour, floating over the Avon Valley.
– Conditions: Weather dependent, with cancellations possible if conditions aren’t suitable.
– Experience: Calm, gentle, offering panoramic views at sunrise.

Post-flight:
– Assistance with packing the balloon, if you’re interested.
– Scenic drive back to Northam.
– Buffet breakfast at the Dome Cafe, inside the Farmers Home Hotel.

Return to Perth:
– The bus departs Northam about 80 minutes after breakfast, returning to the starting point by mid-morning or early afternoon.

The Experience: What Really Stands Out

We loved the way this tour balances adventure with comfort. The early morning start is a commitment, but it’s worth it for the quiet beauty of sunrise over the countryside. The views are consistently praised—travellers mention “spectacular,” “amazing,” and “beautiful” scenery, especially with the morning light casting a glow on the landscape.

Many reviews highlight the well-informed guides who make the experience accessible and engaging. They seem to know their stuff and are happy to share insights or answer questions, which makes the whole process feel more personal. The chance to help set up the balloon adds an interactive touch that some travelers found especially memorable.

On the downside, weather can be unpredictable. A couple of reviews pointed out that flights can be canceled if conditions aren’t right, which isn’t unusual for ballooning, but it’s good to keep in mind that your plans might shift. Still, the organizers seem committed to rescheduling if minimum numbers aren’t reached or if the weather isn’t suitable, which shows they prioritize safety.

Value for Money

Considering the shuttle, scenic drive, the flight, and breakfast, the price might seem steep at first glance. However, when you weigh it against the total experience — the unique views, the guided process, and the peaceful atmosphere — many find it a worthwhile splurge. It’s not just a ride; it’s a carefully organized activity that offers a lot of memorable moments.

Who Will Love It?

This tour appeals most to those who enjoy peaceful mornings, scenic landscapes, and a touch of adventure. It’s especially suited for people who appreciate a relaxed pace and are comfortable with early mornings. It’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or anyone who can’t handle the early start, but it’s accessible for most ages over 6.

FAQs

Is the balloon flight suitable for children?
Yes, the activity is suitable for children over 6 years old. It’s a gentle ride, and no special fitness level is required, making it a family-friendly experience if you’re traveling with kids who meet the age requirement.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly with comfortable clothes, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. Early mornings can be chilly, so a jacket or layers are advisable to stay cozy during the flight.

What happens if the weather isn’t suitable?
Flights are canceled if weather conditions aren’t safe. In such cases, the organizers will reschedule or refund, depending on your preference. They keep safety as their top priority.

How long does the entire experience last?
The full tour lasts around 7 hours, including pickup, drive, preparation, flight, breakfast, and return trip.

Can I participate in setting up the balloon?
Absolutely. If you like hands-on activities, you’ll enjoy helping inflate and prepare the balloon under the crew’s guidance.

What’s included in the price?
Shuttle transport from Perth, scenic drive, the hot air balloon flight, and a buffet breakfast afterward.

Are there any weight restrictions?
Yes, participants over 287 lbs (130 kg) are not suitable for this activity. It’s best to check your weight ahead of time for safety reasons.

How early do I need to arrive?
Pickup times are between 2:00 and 3:55 AM, depending on the season. Be prepared for a very early start, but the experience pays off with stunning views.

Final Thoughts

This balloon ride from Perth to Northam offers a peaceful, memorable way to see Western Australia’s countryside at dawn. The combination of a gentle flight, panoramic views, and a cozy breakfast makes it a well-rounded experience that’s both relaxing and exciting. The guides and crew’s professionalism shine through, helping to make the early hours enjoyable and safe.

While the early start and weather dependence are considerations, many travelers find these minor inconveniences are well worth the breathtaking scenery and the chance to tick off a classic ballooning adventure. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a peaceful morning in nature, this tour has a lot to offer.

If you love scenic, slow-paced activities and want a quiet, awe-inspiring experience, this might be just what you’re looking for. Keep in mind it’s best suited for those who appreciate a gentle, well-organized outing with plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and some hands-on fun.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Remember, this kind of experience is about the quiet beauty of the dawn sky and the thrill of floating in the air. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, it’s definitely worth considering.