NATS WORLD MAP

Having longed for many years to take a hot air balloon flight, but didn’t fancy the high prices, the wait was finally over. Due to its reputation for being the cheapest and yet most impressive hot air balloon ride in the world, I was excited to finally rise to the challenge when I touched down in Luxor.

This once-in-a-lifetime experience offers a unique perspective of one of the world’s most historically rich regions. Known for its ancient temples, impressive valleys, and the mighty Nile, Luxor when seen from above is even more spectacular.

From the moment I arrived, the anticipation of soaring through the skies was exhilarating. The journey combined the serene beauty of Egypt’s countryside with the thrill of floating above centuries-old monuments. It’s a memory that will stay with me forever, and one I highly recommend to anyone visiting this incredible city.

Here’s a snapshot of how my morning unfolded:

The Itinerary

• 5:40 AM: Picked up from the hotel.
• 5:53 AM: Arrived at the boat for a peaceful ride across the Nile.
• 6:37 AM: Reached the launch site and watched the balloons being prepared, whilst having brief landing training from the captain.
• 7:55 AM: Took off into the skies for a 33-minute flight.
• 8:28 AM: Landed smoothly, greeted by the ground crew.
• 8:47 AM: Minibus transfer back to the boat.
• 9:06 AM: Enjoyed a sunny boat ride back across the Nile.
• 9:19 AM: Returned to the hotel, buzzing with excitement from the adventure and in time for breakfast.

The Delays…

After over an hours wait in the take-off field with virtually no communication, I took it upon myself to be the voice for the group. Due to the language barrier, it was not clear as to what was causing the delay. After unpicking the clues, I was able to ascertain that there are two take offs per morning, and we were waiting on a balloon to arrive from the first group before we could have our turn. This caused a lot of frustration all round as we missed sunrise take off (which we watched from the boat where we sat for 30 minutes) and could have had an extra hour and 30 minutes in bed. Their logic was it’s hard to know exact timings as flights are due to wind. Even so, as we weren’t in the first group (which they would have been aware of), we could have been picked up later.

The Balloon Ride: A Bird’s Eye View of History

Once we were in the air, all frustrations melted away. The views over Luxor were absolutely stunning. From the towering Temple of Hatshepsut to the vast expanse of the Valley of the Kings, the sight of ancient monuments from above is unmatched.

The captain of the balloon was calm, experienced, and made everyone feel safe. Despite the chaotic start to the day, the ride itself was smooth and serene – a moment of peace and wonder high above the bustling city below, which is needed as Luxor can get a bit much at times.

The Crew and Organisation

The ground crew – about 10 people in total – were highly organised, tracking the balloon’s flight and meeting us precisely at the landing site. Their efficiency was impressive, and they had the balloon deflated in quick concession, with us being bundled back onto the minibus for the return home.

Positives and Negatives

Positives:

• The balloon ride itself was extraordinary, offering a unique perspective of Luxor’s iconic landmarks.
• The captain was very professional and the ground crew were organised
• At just $50 plus tips, it was excellent value for money.
• As a solo female traveler, I felt safe throughout the experience.

Negatives:

• Long wait times and early starts with no explanation.
• Missing the sunrise, which is a major draw for hot air balloon tours.
• Children persistently begging for money, both from the ground and at the landing site.
• Poor communication from the tour guide.

Tips for Future Travelers

1. Book through a reputable platform: I recommend using Viator or a similar service so you can have direct contact with the tour operator in case of issues.
2. Manage your expectations: While the balloon ride is phenomenal, the organisational side of things might not be as smooth.
3. Be prepared for an early start: Even though the timing might not feel justified, the end result is worth it.
4. Travel safely: I shared my location with a family member for peace of mind as a solo traveler.

How to book your own tour

If you’re interested in booking your own hot air balloon ride in Luxor, check out my Viator page – Viator

Feel free to ask me for any advice.

Final Thoughts

Despite the logistical issues, the hot air balloon ride over Luxor remains one of the most memorable experiences of my trip to Egypt. There’s nothing quite like floating silently above ancient history, soaking in the majesty of temples and tombs from the sky.

While the delays and disorganisation were frustrating, the moment we lifted off made it all worthwhile. If you’re considering this adventure, go in with realistic expectations and a sense of adventure – you’ll leave with memories to last a lifetime.