Hot Air Balloon Experience with Meals at Ubud

Taking to the skies over Bali in a hot air balloon sounds like a dream, and this tour offers just that—plus some enriching stops on the ground. While it promises breathtaking views of lush paddies, jungles, mountains, and hot springs, it’s important to see whether the experience lives up to expectations, especially given the mixed reviews. For around $200, you’ll enjoy a short but memorable 8-minute flight accompanied by visits to iconic Bali sites, making it an adventure that blends scenic beauty with cultural exploration.

What we really love about this experience is how it packages the thrill of soaring above Bali’s verdant landscape with immersive visits to local temples and markets. The inclusion of meals, depending on your chosen package, adds a nice touch of convenience, allowing you to focus on enjoying each moment. However, a key consideration is the weather dependency—if Bali’s skies aren’t cooperating, the flight could be canceled, which might disappoint some travelers expecting a guaranteed aerial ride. Still, with options to reschedule or opt for alternatives, this tour suits those who are flexible and eager to see Bali from a new perspective.

If you’re after a unique way to see Bali’s scenery and culture in a single day, this trip offers good value, especially considering the included stops at the Goa Gajah temple, Ubud market, and Tegalalang rice terraces. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy combining adventure with cultural insights, and who don’t mind a bit of unpredictability with weather-dependent activities.

Key Points

• Stunning aerial views over Bali’s paddies, jungles, and mountains.
• Inclusion of cultural stops makes the experience well-rounded.
• Weather dependency can lead to cancellations, so flexibility is key.
• Meals are included, offering good value and convenience.
• Transfers are included, making logistics smooth.
• The tour is best suited for flexible travelers willing to adapt to weather conditions.

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

What’s Included and Why It Matters

At $200 per person, this tour aims to deliver a full-day adventure without breaking the bank. The fee covers not just the 8-minute hot air balloon ride, but also hotel pickup and drop-off (for select hotels), transport in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan, and meals—either breakfast, afternoon tea, or dinner, depending on your chosen package.

One standout feature is the hotel pickup, which removes the hassle of organizing transport yourself—an especially welcome convenience in Bali’s sometimes chaotic traffic. The inclusion of meals is a thoughtful touch; whether you prefer a hearty breakfast before lift-off or a relaxing dinner afterward, it ensures you’re well-fed during your Bali adventure.

The admission tickets for the main stops—the Goa Gajah temple, Ubud Market, and Tegalalang rice terraces—are all included, so you won’t encounter surprise costs on-site. Plus, the tour’s insurance coverage adds a layer of safety, covering disabilities or injuries caused by the activity, which is reassuring given the weather-dependent nature of ballooning.

The Itinerary — A Closer Look

Stop 1: Bali Hot Air Balloon
The highlight, of course, is the hot air balloon experience. Departing from Ubud’s Chedi Club, the ride lasts about 8 minutes, offering panoramic views of Bali’s lush interior. The tour’s timing depends on your package—either sunrise at 5.00 am or sunset at 4.00 pm. The early morning option is popular for the soft light and cooler temperatures, but some travelers have noted that weather can often cause cancellations.

From reviews, it’s clear that the actual flight, when it happens, is a visual feast. One reviewer pointed out that “most travelers can participate,” with the ride being suitable for couples or small groups (maximum of 2 adults or with small children, depending on weight). The views of terraced rice paddies and distant mountains make it worth the early wake-up call for many, even if the weather doesn’t always cooperate.

Stop 2: Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave) Temple
Next, you’ll visit the iconic Goa Gajah, a temple carved into a hillside that’s over a thousand years old. It’s a peaceful spot that offers insight into Bali’s spiritual heritage, and the temple’s intricate statues and lush surroundings make for a scenic stop. The review indicates that the visit lasts about an hour, giving plenty of time to explore and take photos.

Stop 3: Ubud Palace and Market
After the temple, you’ll head to Ubud Palace and the bustling Ubud Market. This is where the tour shifts from scenic to cultural, letting you browse local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. One traveler appreciated the chance to “see the local artisans and pick up unique souvenirs,” though some noted that the market can be crowded and overwhelming if you’re not prepared.

Stop 4: Tegalalang Rice Terraces
Finally, the tour includes a 30-minute stop at Tegalalang, famed for its stunning rice paddies and traditional subak irrigation system. The terraces are a favorite for photographers, and many reviews highlight the breathtaking scenery. Visitors can enjoy some relaxing views and take memorable photos with the terraces as a backdrop.

Weather and Cancellations — What You Need to Know

Weather is the biggest wild card with this experience. The tour explicitly states that balloon flights only operate if conditions permit, and cancellations are a real possibility. One reviewer, Shirley, described it as a “SCAM” because the weather often prevents flights, and refunds aren’t provided if the flight is canceled due to weather. However, the company offers two alternatives—rescheduling or a 60-minute Balinese massage. This flexibility is a plus, but it’s crucial to keep expectations realistic.

The operator will wait until 7:30 am for sunrise flights or 6 pm for sunset flights. If you’re late, the chance to fly is lost, and no refunds are given. Travelers should plan accordingly and be prepared for possible rescheduling.

Transport and Group Size

The tour operates in small groups—maximum of 2 travelers or small children—making it a more intimate experience. The air-conditioned minivan is comfortable, and the inclusion of transfers from select towns means you don’t have to worry about transport logistics.

Most reviews mention that the pick-up times depend on your hotel location, and the actual departure times are communicated via email. This personalized approach helps manage expectations, but keep in mind that early mornings require a prompt start.

Pricing and Value

At $200, this experience offers a decent balance of thrill, scenery, and culture. The scenic flight, combined with visits to key cultural sites, makes it more than just a balloon ride—it’s a curated day of Bali highlights. The inclusion of meals and transfers adds to the value, especially since separate tours for each element could cost more individually.

However, some reviewers have expressed frustration over canceled flights, which can impact the perceived value. If the weather cooperates, many find the experience to be a worthwhile splurge, especially for the stunning aerial views that are hard to beat.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who are adventurous and flexible, willing to endure the possibility of cancellations due to weather. It’s ideal for those seeking unique perspectives of Bali’s landscape—especially the rice terraces, mountains, and hot springs—and who want to combine aerial viewings with cultural visits. If you enjoy small-group tours, scenic photo opportunities, and cultural insights, you’ll appreciate how this tour balances all these elements.

It’s also great for honeymooners or couples looking for a memorable, intimate adventure, as the small group size enhances the personal feel. However, if you’re wary of weather cancellations, or traveling with very young children or pregnant women, it’s worth considering the risks involved.

Final Thoughts

The Hot Air Balloon Experience with Meals at Ubud offers a compelling blend of adventure, scenery, and culture. The stunning views from the balloon, especially when the weather is clear, are the main draw, turning an ordinary Bali trip into something truly memorable. The stops at Goa Gajah, Ubud Palace, and the rice terraces enrich the experience, providing authentic glimpses into Bali’s rich traditions and beautiful landscapes.

While weather can be unpredictable and cancellations frustrating, the tour’s flexibility in rescheduling or offering alternatives is a plus. The inclusion of meals and hotel transfers makes it a convenient, well-rounded option for those keen on experiencing Bali from above and below.

For travelers who value authentic views, cultural stops, and good value, this tour hits the mark—just keep your expectations in check regarding the weather. If you’re flexible and looking for a unique way to see Bali’s verdant beauty, this experience is definitely worth considering.

FAQs

What is the duration of the hot air balloon flight?
The ride lasts approximately 8 minutes, providing a quick but spectacular aerial view of Bali’s landscape.

Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, depending on the package you select, you can enjoy breakfast, afternoon tea, or dinner.

Can children participate in the balloon ride?
Yes, children can participate, but the maximum weight limit is 150kg in total, and the activity is best suited for small children or couples. Kids aged 0-1 are free.

What happens if the weather doesn’t permit the flight?
If weather conditions prevent the balloon from flying, you’ll be offered the option to reschedule or receive a 60-minute Balinese massage for two as an alternative.

Are transfers included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for select hotels, making logistics easier.

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

In essence, this Bali hot air balloon tour combines a short but memorable flight with insightful cultural stops, making it a worthwhile adventure for those seeking stunning scenery and culture—just remember to stay flexible in case of weather cancellations.