Whenever the Bucket List Genie spends time with her valuable clients, discussing their bucket lists, one thing that frequently tops their lists, is hot air balloon rides. It’s no surprise, because it is the closest a human (apart from Superman, who is technically an alien) can come to experiencing flight… There’s a new perspective from which you experience the landscape, and only fresh air around you as you move across the sky uninhibited by the things that weigh us down in our more grounded existence.

Then of course, it’s something a small percentage of people actually tick off their bucket lists. Whether it’s fear of heights or just not getting around to it, hot-air balloon flights are something that certainly gives you bragging rights. Unfortunately, there are only a handful of vendors who offer hot air ballooning in SA. However, they’re all in amazing settings where you can find even more things to do and enjoy in our beautiful country.

Combine your hot air balloon safaris with game viewing or an overnight stay. Make it memorable by using your hot air balloon ride with champagne to propose to your love.

There are several hot air balloon tours available in the Cradle of Humankind, including a classic flight and a safari. Feel the excitement grow as you board the balloon and start to rise up, up and away. Enjoy the truly spectacular view of the Magaliesberg Mountains and various game roaming the reserve below.

Stay at the nearby Kloofzicht Lodge, Glenburn Lodge, or De Hoek Country Hotel and explore the surrounding areas. Best known for its cycling routes and fabulous wine tastings.

Let the Bucket List Genie make your dream of a hot-air balloon ride a reality.