Ghent: Hot Air Balloon Tour

Imagine floating gently above the rooftops of Ghent, with the early morning light casting a glow over this UNESCO-listed city. For $234 per person, you can take a hot air balloon ride offered by Dekein Ballonvaarten that promises not just spectacular views but an experience that leaves you with memories to cherish. We’re talking about an hour in the air, a Champagne toast, and a personal flight certificate—all wrapped into about 3 to 4 hours of adventure.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to see Ghent’s stunning medieval architecture and winding canals from a vantage point that no guidebook can match. Second, the quiet serenity of floating above the city at sunrise or sunset is hard to beat. The peacefulness of being in a hot air balloon, far from the crowds, gives you a unique sense of connection to the landscape below.

Of course, you should be aware that weather conditions are crucial for a safe flight, so your experience depends on the skies being clear. Plus, this activity isn’t suited for very young children, pregnant women, or anyone in a wheelchair, which is typical for hot air ballooning. If you’re looking for an authentic, intimate adventure that combines scenic beauty with a touch of luxury, this tour is a fantastic choice.

This experience appeals most to travelers who love outdoor adventures, enjoy unique perspectives of cityscapes, and are comfortable with a small group setting. If you’re someone who appreciates personal touches like a flight certificate and inflight photos, you’ll find this tour particularly rewarding.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Perfect for panoramic, bird’s-eye vistas of Ghent’s historic cityscape.
• Special Experience: Sunrise or sunset flights add a magical touch to your morning or evening.
• Personal Touches: Inflight photos, a Champagne toast, and a traditional flight certificate enhance the experience.
• Small Groups: With only 2-6 passengers per balloon, you’ll enjoy a more intimate and personalized flight.
• Safety & Expertise: The pilot, Kenian, has over 900 hours of experience across 15 countries, ensuring a secure flight.
• Flexible Options: Pick-up is available if needed, and the entire experience lasts around 3-4 hours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Ghent Hot Air Balloon Tour

The Itinerary & What to Expect

Your adventure begins early—usually about 30 minutes prior to sunrise or sunset, depending on the season. The exact meeting time varies, but the experience kicks off with an optional hotel pick-up, making it easier to get to the launch site without fuss. Once there, you’ll receive a thorough safety briefing from your pilot, Kenian, who brings a wealth of experience—over 900 hours across more than 15 countries—so you’re in capable hands.

The ballooning itself lasts about an hour, during which you’ll gently drift over Ghent. The flight’s length is perfect for appreciating the city’s medieval architecture, winding canals, and lush parks without feeling rushed. One of the most noted perks is the breathtaking views of Ghent’s UNESCO World Heritage site, which you’ll see from angles impossible on foot.

The Experience of Flying

As you ascend, expect a peaceful silence interrupted only by the occasional burst of the burner. The sensation of floating is remarkably calm—no engine noise, just the gentle breeze. Many reviews emphasize the beauty of the early light, which bathes the city in soft hues, creating perfect photo opportunities. You’ll love the inflight pictures included in the package, capturing your memorable moments from the sky.

Celebration & Souvenirs

After about an hour in the air, you’ll land smoothly—thanks to the skill of your pilot—and celebrate with a Champagne toast, a classic tradition that also includes a small pastry breakfast. The tour concludes with a return transfer to your original meeting point or hotel, bringing the day full circle. You’ll also receive a personal flight certificate as a keepsake, a tangible reminder of your airborne adventure.

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Small Balloon, Big Experience

Dekein Ballonvaarten uses only small balloons accommodating 2-6 passengers. This choice guarantees a more personalized experience, allowing the pilot to tailor the flight and answer questions, making it more engaging than larger commercial balloon rides.

The Practical Side

The entire activity lasts around 3 to 4 hours, including transportation, safety briefing, flight time, and celebration. The price includes non-alcoholic drinks, inflight pictures, insurance, and the flight certificate, offering excellent value for an experience that delivers more than just sightseeing. You’ll want to wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and bring a camera and binoculars to maximize your enjoyment and capture the views.

Weather & Safety Considerations

Weather plays a critical role in ballooning—if conditions aren’t suitable, your flight will be canceled or rescheduled. The company will notify you via WhatsApp or email the day before, and they’re quite clear that safety comes first. The flexible booking policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—adds peace of mind.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking a peaceful, scenic experience with a dash of luxury. It suits those who appreciate authentic outdoor activities and want to see Ghent from a different perspective. If you’re traveling with someone special, the romantic sunrise or sunset flight can be particularly memorable. However, it’s not suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

In short, a hot air balloon ride over Ghent offers a rare chance to see the city from a tranquil, elevated vantage point. The combination of stunning views, the personal touch of inflight photos and a flight certificate, and the professional expertise of your pilot makes for a memorable experience worth considering. It’s particularly appealing to those who value authentic, scenic moments and aren’t afraid of a little early-morning or evening adventure.

While weather-dependent and somewhat pricey, the overall value is high given what you get: a peaceful hour in the air, breathtaking scenery, and a souvenir to take home. If you’re looking for a unique way to mark your visit to Ghent, this tour hits the right notes for an unforgettable, sky-high memory.

FAQs

How long does the total experience last?
The entire ballooning experience, including transportation, safety briefing, flight, and celebration, lasts around 3 to 4 hours.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers a 1-hour balloon flight, experienced pilot, ground crew, inflight pictures, a Champagne toast, a flight certificate, non-alcoholic drinks, a small pastry breakfast, and transfer back to the launch site or your hotel.

Can I cancel if the weather isn’t suitable?
Yes, if weather conditions aren’t safe for flying, your booking will be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll be notified beforehand, and there’s a full refund if you choose to cancel.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pick-up can be arranged if required, and the return transfer is included in the experience.

Who is this activity not suitable for?
Children under 4 years, pregnant women, and wheelchair users should consider other options, as ballooning involves certain physical limitations and safety considerations.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, comfortable clothes, and binoculars are recommended to enhance your experience.

To sum it up, this hot air balloon tour over Ghent offers a genuinely special way to see one of Belgium’s most charming cities. It combines gentle adventure, stunning vistas, and thoughtful touches like photos and certificates, making it perfect for romantic getaways, small groups, or anyone eager to add a memorable highlight to their trip. Just remember, good weather is key to soaring through the skies—so stay flexible, and prepare for a breathtaking experience that’s worth the early start or evening planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: