Are you looking for a truly special experience in Mallorca? I’ve seen quite a bit of the island, but even I was completely blown away by the hot-air balloon ride over Mallorca! If you have something to celebrate on your vacation or want to head home with an unforgettable memory: Voilà! In this article, I’ll tell you about my hot-air balloon ride in Mallorca, what it felt like, and whether it’s really worth it.
Discovering Mallorca on a hot air balloon ride
Clink. The glasses clink as we toast. Actually, I could have used that sip of cava before takeoff rather than while we were up in the air high above Felanitx. Admittedly, as a flight attendant, I’m probably a little less afraid because of my job, and I’d already completed my first hot-air balloon ride back in Mexico. Still, ballooning isn’t exactly an everyday experience, and it’s definitely exciting.
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A perfect start into the new year on Mallorca
We float silently over Felanitx toward the sunrise, the silence broken only by the hiss of the burner when our pilot, Jordi, adds a bit more hot air. It’s crazy—we’re just standing in a basket several hundred meters above the ground, enjoying the view over the island in perfect weather. I thought once again that nothing could surprise me in Mallorca anymore, since I’ve already seen so much of the island—but I was wrong.
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Private tours with a hot air balloon
The start of the new year couldn’t have been more beautiful. By the way, the four of us didn’t only celebrate the start of the new year, but also the birthday of my dear friend Sandra, who happened to be on the island – and the a balloon ride was the perfect birthday surprise! Maybe you want to celebrate something special on Mallorca, too? Birthdays, marriage proposals, everything is possible! And if you want to enjoy the ride all alone with your loved one, you can also book a private tour here:
Private hot-air balloon ride for two*
FAQ about hot air ballooning in Mallorca
What is the route of the hot air balloon?
The route depends on the wind conditions, take off is usually in the interior of the island. For example, we started a little outside Manacor and then drove towards Felanitx.
Which is better? Sunrise or sunset?
You can book the hot-air balloon ride for sunrise or sunset. Both have their advantages! At sunrise, it can sometimes be a bit hazier during the colder months, and in the summer, you have to get up really early. We met at 7:30 a.m. in January; in the summer, it’s much earlier. But you’ll be rewarded with an incredible takeoff into the rising sun. However, if you’d rather not stress yourself out with early start times while on vacation, then I recommend a sunset flight.
Who can go?
You should be able to get into the balloon: Helpers are there, but it can be difficult for people with limited mobility. Children should be at least 4 years old, dogs and pregnant women are unfortunately not allowed.
Is ballooning safe?
Our pilot, Jordi—who is also the owner of the company—has over 30 years of experience in hot-air ballooning and has participated in various balloon festivals and competitions all over the world. We really felt special! The landing feels a bit bumpier, since the basket may touch the ground several times before it finally comes to a complete stop, but Jordi prepared us very well—and a little adventure is part of the fun, right?
What is the best thing to wear? Do you need warm clothes?
You don’t go that high up with the balloon that it could get very cold. Besides, the burner also emits heat, so you don’t have to wrap yourself up with extra clothes. However, for safe entry and exit, you should avoid flip-flops or sandals and rather wear sneakers or other sturdy footwear.
Where do you land?
When ballooning, you have to be a little spontaneous: You’ll land wherever it suits you. And sometimes even that becomes an adventure! For example, we landed in a field of a finca!
When is the best time to plan a balloon flight in Mallorca?
Be aware that a balloon ride always depends on the weather. Mallorca is an island and weather conditions can change quickly. If it is too windy, rainy or the visibility is too bad, the balloon stays on the ground. Jordi will contact you in time and arrange an alternative date with you.
The weather here in January was also very mixed; we had to reschedule once or twice. So it’s best to plan your trip for the beginning of your stay and book well in advance, because spots are in high demand during peak season.
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How long is the balloon ride?
The trip itself takes about an hour. But plan a little more time, plus the drive back to the meeting point plus set-up, briefing etc.
Photo credit for exterior shots: ©IBBallooning
