Hot Air Balloon Experience with Meals at Ubud

Flying high over Bali’s lush interior offers a view few get to enjoy firsthand. This hot air balloon tour starts from Ubud and promises an exhilarating 8-minute flight over rice paddies, jungles, and mountains, topped with stops at iconic sites like the Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) Temple and the bustling Ubud Market. For $200 per person, you get not only these breathtaking vistas but also the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, with options for breakfast or dinner depending on your chosen package.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines adventure with cultural stops—a great way to see Bali from above and below. The scenic views of terraced rice paddies and emerald jungles are genuinely worth the price, especially for travelers craving authentic photo opportunities. Plus, the included meals add a nice touch of convenience, making this more than just a flight but an entire half-day adventure.

That said, one thing to bear in mind is the weather-dependent nature of hot air ballooning. If weather conditions aren’t ideal, your flight could be canceled, as noted in some reviews. While the operator offers rescheduling or a massage as compensation, it’s something to consider if you’re on a tight schedule. This tour suits those who enjoy spectacular scenery, are flexible, and want a seamless way to see a wide swath of Bali’s highlights in one go.

If you love stunning views, cultural visits, and don’t mind the uncertainties of weather, this tour is a great fit. It’s especially suited for couples or small groups looking for a memorable, well-organized day out. Travelers who value value for money and want a taste of Bali from above and below will find this experience rewarding.

Key Points

• Breathtaking aerial views of Bali’s rice terraces, jungles, and mountains
• Cultural stops at Goa Gajah and Ubud Market enrich the experience
• Inclusive meals add convenience, whether breakfast or dinner
• Hotel pickup and drop-off streamline logistics
• The flight duration is approximately 8 minutes, offering a quick but memorable ride
• Weather can impact flight availability, with options for rescheduling or alternative compensation

An In-Depth Look at the Hot Air Balloon Experience

When considering a Bali activity that combines adventure with cultural insight, this hot air balloon ride stands out. We found that the key appeal lies in the stunning views that unfold beneath you—vast rice paddies carved into the hillside, dense jungles creeping to the horizon, and the distant peaks of Bali’s volcanic mountains. The 8-minute flight may seem brief but is packed with postcard-worthy sights that make it worth every penny.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour begins early in the morning or later in the afternoon, depending on your selected package—either sunrise at 5:00 am or sunset at 4:00 pm. We love that the timing allows you to experience Bali’s changing moods, with the morning flight catching the soft glow of dawn and the evening offering a more tranquil, golden landscape.

The hotel pickup is generally smooth, with air-conditioned minivans whisking you from your accommodation. The actual hot air balloon ride lasts about 8 minutes, offering a swift but impactful experience. During our research, we noted that the ride is ideally suited for couples or small groups, with a maximum of two travelers per balloon due to weight restrictions (up to 150 kg total). Children are welcome but should be under the stipulated weight limits; infants under age 2 can go free.

The Cultural Stops: Goa Gajah and Ubud Market

Once back on solid ground, the tour continues with visits to Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave), a revered temple site with fascinating stone carvings and a history dating back centuries. The one-hour visit allows for exploring the temple grounds and taking photos.

Next, you’re taken to Ubud Palace and Ubud Market. These are highlights for anyone wanting to soak in Bali’s local arts, crafts, and vibrant street life. We loved the chance to browse stalls and maybe pick up some souvenirs, adding an authentic local flavor to your day.

The final stop is the Tegalalang Rice Terraces, famous for their dramatic, layered landscapes and traditional subak irrigation system. Spending about 30 minutes here gives plenty of time to walk along the terraces, snap photos, and appreciate Bali’s agricultural ingenuity.

Meals: Convenience and Flavor

Included in the tour price are meals, which depend on your package—either a breakfast before the flight or dinner after. The menu content is subject to change, but most travelers find the included breakfasts or meals satisfactory, adding value by saving time and extra expenses.

Practical Considerations and Tips

While the scenic views are the star of this tour, it’s crucial to be prepared for weather cancellations. As noted in reviews, the ride is highly dependent on weather conditions—which is common with balloon flights worldwide. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, you’ll be offered options like rescheduling or a massage, which adds flexibility but requires planning.

For those concerned about timing, note that the operator only waits until 7:30 am for sunrise flights and 6 pm for sunset flights. If you’re late, the ride might be missed entirely, so punctuality is key.

The cost of $200 per person covers the ride, transfers, cultural site entry fees, and meals, which adds up to good value when you consider the scope of the experience. Just remember that souvenir photos are not included, so if capturing memories is important, you might want to bring a camera or buy photos separately.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

One reviewer, Shirley, expressed frustration, describing the experience as a “SCAM” because the weather prevented the flight, and no refunds were given. This highlights how critical weather can be in ballooning, but the company’s policy to offer rescheduling or a massage shows some flexibility. Other travelers appreciated the stunning views and the smooth logistics, emphasizing the good value for money.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see Bali from above in a short, scenic flight combined with cultural visits. It’s suited for those who appreciate photography, nature, and local culture, and are comfortable with the possibility of weather-related cancellations. Small groups and couples will find the personalized feel appealing, especially given the limited group size.

Final Thoughts

The Hot Air Balloon Experience at Ubud offers a rare chance to soar over Bali’s iconic landscapes without the lengthy schedule or hefty price tag of some larger adventure packages. The spectacular views, combined with stops at important cultural sites, make it a well-rounded half-day trip.

While weather can sometimes pose a challenge, the overall quality, including included meals and smooth logistics, adds to the appeal. If you’re eager to combine adventure with culture, and don’t mind a brief flight, this tour represents a value-rich opportunity to see Bali from a new perspective.

This experience best suits romantic couples, small groups, and travelers who value authentic scenery and local flavor. It’s a memorable way to add a touch of adventure to your Bali trip, especially if you’re seeking something beyond typical sightseeing.

FAQ

How long is the hot air balloon ride?
The flight lasts about 8 minutes, providing a quick but striking aerial view of Bali’s landscapes.

What are the departure times?
Flights are scheduled for either sunrise around 5:00 am or sunset around 4:00 pm, depending on your package.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, transfers are included from selected hotels, making logistics hassle-free.

What if the weather cancels the flight?
Your operator offers options like rescheduling to the afternoon session or a 60-minute Balinese massage for two as alternative compensation.

Can children participate?
Yes, children under 1 year old can go free, and the ride is suitable for small children depending on weight.

How many travelers are in each balloon?
The tour is designed for a maximum of 2 travelers per flight, ideal for couples or small groups.

What sites are visited after the flight?
You will visit Goa Gajah Temple, Ubud Palace, Ubud Market, and the Tegalalang Rice Terraces.

Is the experience suitable for pregnant women or PWDs?
No, this activity is not recommended for pregnant women or persons with disabilities.

Are souvenirs photos included?
No, souvenir photos are not included in the price; you can opt to buy photos separately.

What is the total cost?
The experience costs $200 per person, including the ride, transfers, cultural site entries, and meals.

Embark on this Bali adventure if you’re craving stunning views, cultural insights, and the thrill of flying—just be sure to check the weather forecast and be prepared for a swift, memorable experience.