Perth to Northam: Balloon flight including shuttle bus

Imagine waking up well before dawn, heading out from Perth in a comfy mini bus, and floating silently over the rolling landscapes of Western Australia’s Avon Valley. For around seven hours, this tour takes you on a leisurely journey that combines the thrill of hot air ballooning with the comfort of shuttle transfers and a hearty breakfast—an experience designed for those craving a unique, tranquil perspective on the countryside.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it balances adventure and relaxation: the gentle lift-off at sunrise offers stunning panoramic views, and the chance to help with inflation adds a tangible connection to the craft. On the practical side, the provision of shuttle transport from central Perth makes this outing accessible, saving you the hassle of organizing transport yourself. Plus, the experienced pilots with thousands of hours behind them ensure safety and confidence.

One thing to consider is that weather conditions can influence the flight, meaning you might need a bit of patience if the fog or mist delays your departure. Also, early morning starts mean we’re talking about meeting as early as 2 a.m. in some seasons, which might not suit every traveler’s rhythm. But if you’re an early riser and love wide-open skies, this experience is well worth the effort.

This tour is perfect for couples, families, or groups of friends who enjoy serene, scenic adventures. It’s especially suited for those interested in authentic ballooning with a local touch—without the high adrenaline or crowds of larger, more commercial operations.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Enjoy broad vistas of the Avon Valley at sunrise, capturing the soft morning light.
• Expert Guides: Pilots with thousands of hours ensure a safe, smooth flight and informative commentary.
• Inclusive Experience: Shuttle transfers, inflation, flight, and breakfast are all included, offering great value.
• Hands-On Option: You can participate in the setup, adding an engaging, authentic element.
• Flexible Scheduling: Flights follow the sun, with departure times varying from early early morning.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for anyone over 6, with no special fitness needed, but not recommended for pregnant women or those over 287 lbs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey from Perth to Northam: What to Expect

Starting bright and early, you’ll be picked up around 2 to 4 a.m. depending on the season—yes, quite the early start! But the upside is that you’re heading out before most of the world is awake, giving you a chance to watch the sunrise as you travel roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes from Perth to Northam.

The meeting point is beside the main outdoor car park at the Crown Complex in Burswood, a spot that’s easy to access and close to central Perth. From here, a comfortable mini bus whisks you away over scenic countryside, giving you a chance to doze or chat as your guide shares stories about the region.

Upon arriving in Northam, you’ll meet your pilot and crew at the Dome Cafe—an informal, friendly spot that sets the tone for the day. From there, the crew takes over, driving you to the launch site that best suits the weather conditions. The choice of location is not fixed; it varies to ensure a safe, optimal flight, which means each trip offers a slightly different perspective.

Balloon Inflation and Preparation

Inflation takes about half an hour, during which you witness the impressive process of the giant balloon coming to life. If you’re interested, you can even lend a hand—this is more than just a sightseeing tour. It’s a chance to get close to the craft, feel the heat from the burners, and understand how this ancient sport works.

The Flight Itself

Once airborne, the experience is surprisingly peaceful. The balloon drifts with the wind, making you feel more like a feather than a pilot. The views are truly panoramic—stretching over green farmland, patchwork fields, and distant hills, all bathed in the glow of the rising sun.

The flight lasts about an hour, during which you’ll enjoy a gentle, quiet glide—no jarring movements, no loud noises—just the soft rush of the wind and the occasional burst from the burners. It’s a calming way to see the countryside from a new vantage point.

Landing and Help with Pack-up

After the flight, the pilot carefully chooses a suitable landing spot—often a field or open space—and if you’re up for it, you can help with packing down the balloon. Many find this to be a satisfying end to the adventure, feeling like part of the team rather than just a passenger.

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Breakfast and Relaxation

Returning to Northam, you’ll be treated to a buffet breakfast at the Dome Cafe inside the Farmers Home Hotel. Though some reviewers mention the breakfast can feel a bit rushed—probably due to the early start and tight schedule—most agree it’s a satisfying way to end a memorable morning.

The Practical Side: Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The entire experience is designed for convenience. The shuttle from Perth is included, removing the stress of coordinating your own transport. Pickup times can vary significantly, from as early as 2 a.m. in summer to about 4 a.m. in winter, so it’s crucial to be prepared for those early hours.

Group sizes tend to be moderate, ensuring a more intimate experience without the chaos of large crowds. The pilots’ level of experience is notable—many reviews highlight their thousands of flying hours, which offers peace of mind and a wealth of local knowledge.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $277 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a full morning of scenic adventure, including transfers, a certified pilot, and breakfast. With the added bonus of participation in balloon setup, it’s more than just a ride—it’s an authentic, hands-on experience. The beauty of watching the sunrise from 1,000 feet above the countryside, combined with the friendly atmosphere and expert guidance, makes this a worthwhile splurge for those seeking a memorable, scenic outing.

Authenticity and Quality of Reviews

The majority of reviews echo a high level of satisfaction. For instance, Monty from the US calls it a “thrilling experience,” emphasizing how memorable the activity was. Sarah from Australia mentions how gentle and easy the ride felt, highlighting its suitability for all ages. Meanwhile, a few less favorable reviews point out that flights are weather-dependent, so flexibility is necessary, but this is common with ballooning.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers looking for a peaceful, scenic adventure rather than adrenaline-pumping activities. It suits those interested in nature, photography, or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of early morning landscapes. Families with children over 6, couples celebrating special occasions, or groups of friends will find this a memorable outing. It’s especially attractive if you appreciate the authenticity of a seasoned pilot and the chance to be part of ballooning’s timeless charm.

The Sum Up

For a gentle, awe-inspiring way to see Western Australia’s countryside, this balloon tour delivers in spades. The combination of panoramic views, expert guides, inclusive services, and the tranquil magic of floating with the wind makes it a standout experience. While early mornings and weather dependency are considerations, the overall value and authenticity shine through.

This tour offers a peaceful escape from busy city life, perfect for those who want to connect with nature and enjoy a memorable adventure. If you’re after a scenic, authentic ballooning experience in Western Australia, this is a choice that’s hard to beat.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes shuttle transfers from Perth, transport from Northam to the launch site and back, a one-hour balloon flight, and a buffet breakfast at Dome Cafe.

How early do I need to wake up?
Meeting times vary from around 2 a.m. to 4 a.m., depending on the season, due to the need to follow the sun and weather conditions.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Yes, children over 6 years old are welcome. The activity is gentle and involves no height sickness, but under 6’s are not permitted.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly and comfortably: jackets, long pants, outdoor clothing, and closed-toe shoes are recommended because it can be chilly before sunrise.

What if the weather isn’t suitable for flying?
Flights are canceled if weather conditions are unsafe, but the company offers rescheduling options, and they will coordinate new dates with you.

Can I help with the balloon setup?
Yes, if you wish, you can participate in inflating and packing the balloon, which many find adds to the sense of involvement.

Is there a weight limit?
Yes, the activity isn’t suitable for those over 287 lbs (130 kg), as safety and comfort are priorities.

This hot air balloon experience over the Avon Valley combines scenic beauty, expert guidance, and authentic participation, making it a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a peaceful yet memorable adventure in Western Australia.

You can check availability for your dates here: