• If my cairns cruise ship stays overnight, will the hot air balloon tour include transfers from Cairns cruise liner terminal?

    Yes, we will happily drop you off to the cruise liner terminal, please advise us if your ship is also departing the same morning so we can ensure ballooning fits with your itinerary.

  • Can I go for a bungee jump after my balloon flight in Cairns?

    Yes we can drop you to AJ Hackett but you will need to arrange your own transport to get back to your accommodation. 

     

  • I want to go on a trip with my friends, can we bring beer on the balloon to celebrate? I will give one to the pilot if you'll let me.

    No we do not allow food or drink on the balloon and out pilot cannot take offerings while flying the balloon. As we land on private property please be thoughtful with your litter, we recommend waiting until you are back at your hotel to start celebrating. 

  • What other activities can I do after my balloon flight in Cairns?

    Hot Air only operates the balloon tours. However we do a number of combination tours with Skyrail, Kuranda Train, rafting, the reef with other companies and we can book those tours for you, click HERE

  • Where can I park my car if I choose self drive option in cairns?

    With all our self drive options there is available car parking. Please meet us at the Mareeba heritage centre times to meet there vary on the seasons so please contact us to confirm what time you should meet us. Please contact 0740 399900 if you are concerned you have missed your pick up. Our drivers will be able to help you on the phone between 3.30am - 5.30am daily. Any questions out of this time please contact our reservations team between 8am - 8pm 7 days a week.

  • If I want to book 10 people will we all be in the same basket?

    Yes you will be in the same basket, please book at least 1 week before your preferred date to ensure we have availability for such a large group. Our balloons can hold 16-24 people meaning there will be your group and a few others in the one basket. 

  • Will you drop me off to DFO Cairns shopping centre after our hot air balloon ride?

    Yes we are able to drop off to Cairns DFO after your ballooning flight. Please ensure you advise our reservations team when confirming your booking so we can ensure our drivers know where to take you.

  • Are we able to do more than one combination eg: reef, train and skyrail?

    Some of our combination tours are able to be booked together as timings do not conflict with your hot air balloon itinerary. If you wish to do additional tours to what we have available on our website please let us know and we can try to put an itinerary together for you. Note that you may need at least two days free to do all activities and may require to arrange some of your own transfers.

  • Can we upgrade to diamond view and gold class for the Kuranda scenic railway train and Kuranda skyrail?

    Subject to availability you are able to request to upgrade both activities. Please advise if you wish to upgrade upon booking by emailing us at [email protected] with your booking id or please click on our live chat button www.hotair.com.au/cairns

    We will then advise you of any additional fees and confirm once we have heard back from the other tour providers.

  • Can we take snacks with us, when will we be able to get breakfast ? (C30TS)

    Yes, we welcome you to bring light snacks along with you in case you get hungry. As you have a big day ahead, booking this hot air balloon and Kuranda package you may feel the need to have light refreshments with you. 

    On your arrival to Kuranda you will find lots of great cafe's in the main street of Kuranda, to have a late breakfast by around 11am.

  • Can you drop us off at Palm Cove after ballooning to swim in the ocean in the wet season?

    If you have arranged for a Northern Beaches transfers then yes we are able to drop you off to Palm Cove after your hot air balloon flight. Swimming in Far North Queensland over the wet season can be restricted at some beaches. Please make sure you check with the lifeguard at the beach and read safety signs before entering the water.

  • Is my skyrail time fixed or can I change the time after my balloon ride?

    Skyrail timings are approximate. If you wish to depart earlier or later than your ticketed times you will need to check at the skyrail terminal checkin desk. Changes will be subject to availability.

  • Can we book for the later Kuranda train time on the day we do our hot air balloon tour?

    There are later departure times available for the Kuranda train at 03:30 pm which is subject to availability. You can opt to do this by putting your preference in your Cairns balloon online booking notes or clicking on our live chat button and advising your booking ID.

    No additional charges are due to change the train time.

  • ​Why do hot air balloons only go up in the morning in Cairns?

    Hot Air ballooning requires stable air temperatures and wind patterns which are mostly occur in the early hours of the morning as the sun is rising. Hot Air Balloon Cairns is fortunate that the conditions are some of the best in the world for ballooning and perfect for take off nearly all year round. We also believe it is a beautiful way to wake up as the scenery is spectacular in Cairns that time of the day!

  • We plan to stay at Yungaburra so was wondering if there is a meeting point and where, rather than being picked up from Cairns or Port Douglas?

    Ballooning in Cairns takes place in Mareeba which is apart of the Atherton Tablelands. Our self drive meeting location if you are staying close by is at the Mareeba Heritage Center. Mareeba is approximately a 30 minute drive from yungaburra. The meeting times vary summer and winter, we will confirm the time when you book.

  • Where do we wait at our Cairns hotel for hot air balloon pick up?

    Please wait in the lobby/reception of your hotel. Your Hot Air Balloon Cairns driver will come in and collect you so you are not waiting outside in the early hours of the morning. Hot Air Ballooning is very weather dependant so it is important that you are ready to leave when your driver arrives or you will miss your flight. Please have your ticket or booking confirmation ready to show the driver. If you are concerned about your pick up on the day please call +617403999900

  • I only have an international number, will you be able to reach me for our hot air balloon ride?

    We can call and sms international numbers but we do nee to know the international country code (number with + at the beginning). When you book your balloon ride from Cairns please make sure we know which country you are traveling from and all of your best contact details in case we need to reach you.

  • What is the car number and contact number the driver for balloon in Cairns?

    Please reconfirm your details and update your contact information with Hot Air before your travel date. please contact 0740 399900 if you are concerned you have missed your pick up. Our drivers will be able to help you on the phone between 3.30am - 5.30am daily. Any questions out of this time please contact our reservations team between 8am - 8pm 7 days a week.

  • What time will we come back to our hotel in Cairns after ballooning?

    Transfers back to Cairns accommodation is between 9.30am-10am. If you wish to return earlier we have an express option that will return you back to the city by 9am. We also offer drop off at the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal if you are going to the Great Barrier Reef after your balloon flight.

  • I can't confirm the reservation for Hot Air Balloon flight, what so I do?

    To reconfirm your Cairns balloon flight you can visit our online confirmation www.hotair.com.au/reconfirm  you will need your booking ID number ( 6 digit confirmation number) and the name on the reservation. Alternatively you can call 07 4039 9900 or email [email protected] and our team can help direct you.

  • Please advise if ballooning flight is going tomorrow morning with weather in Cairns not great?

    We keep a close eye on the weather conditions for the hot air balloon flight, we will not fly if the conditions are unsuitable. We will notify you by 5pm the afternoon your departure if the conditions are not suitable, you can then choose another date or 100% refund. If you do not hear from us we will be going ahead as scheduled.

  • Can I upgrade my balloon and skyrail combination? I want to do the diamond view skyrail if possible.

    Once you have booked your balloon and skyrail package if you wish to upgrade to the diamond view skyrail please let us know. This option is subject to availability and is an additional cost per person to upgrade. Please contact our reservations team by chat, email or phone for pricing.  If you wish to upgrade on the day please ask the check in desk at the skyrail and arrange directly with them.

  • I have a balloon booking for tomorrow morning. What time will we be picked up?

    All ballooning is early morning. Our pick up times are sent to you via email when you book. The times vary summer and winter. Please advise us where you will be staying in Cairns for a pick up and we will confirm the time. If you haven't received your confirmation or pick up details please contact our reservations team on 07 4039 9900 between 8am and 8pm AEST daily who can assist you. 

  • Do you have availability for next Saturday or Sunday in Cairns?

    Balloon rides are scheduled for daily departures from Cairns all year round (excluding Christmas Day 25th December and New Years Day 1st January).  Weekends can be our most popular days for both locals and visitors. We recommend booking at least a week ahead to confirm your place.

  • Can i choose the different time of the train back to city center from Kuranda?

    Yes, if available we can change your train departure to 3.30pm instead of 2pm. If you change your mind on the day you will need to check if you can alter the details when you check in. You can book the 3.30pm train combo right here

  • Can you give me a price for an hour flight if we drive to Mareeba?

    Sure, our self drive extended balloon flight, includes double the flight time and return from Mareeba Heritage Centre. Exact meeting times are advised upon booking as they change with the seasons. Click Here for pricing. 

  • I would like to return on board the Kuranda Scenic Train at 3.15pm for a 3.30pm Kuranda departure, is this possible?

    The default time for the Kuranda train to depart, when you book, is 2pm. However if you would prefer the later train, 3.30pm, you can book it here - Click here

  • Is there any offers cheaper than what you have on your website?

    The offers we have listed in our website is our up to date best price available. If you can find a cheaper price please email us ([email protected]). As Hot Air Ballooning is a specialised activity in Cairns we have limited availability and we will sell out most days. 

  • Is there accommodation available close by to where you fly?

    Yes! We have some suggestions for accommodation located near to Mareeba where we fly our hot air balloons and our self drive meeting location. Details for some of the options can be found on our website - Click Here

  • Do the hot air balloons fly over the ocean to see the Great Barrier Reef?

    No, unfortunately we do not fly over the ocean or the Great Barrier Reef. Ballooning takes place in the Cairns highlands of the Atherton Tablelands. Flying coastally can have very unreliable weather conditions and patterns. We fly inland approximately an hour drive from the ocean where the conditions are some of the best for Hot Air Ballooning in the world. Flights are scheduled to depart daily all year round.

  • what is the cheapest flight from Cairns?

    Our best value option is our self drive balloon flight that meets in Mareeba which is approximately an hour drive from Cairns city. Meeting times vary summer and winter, we will confirm when you make your booking. Pricing is available Here

     

  • What is the cancellation and postponement policy from Cairns?

    Any changes to your reservation made outside of 48 hours prior to your travel date will not incur any fees. Inside this time, while we try to be as flexible as possible, there will be no refunds inside 48 hours. Please note that we depart in the early hours of the day and our cancellation policy is based on your pick up time. To amend your details please click on our live chat button on our website or phone us on 07 4039 9900, we are open from 9am - 5pm Monday - Friday and 9am-2pm Saturday and Sunday.​

  • Where do you fly in Cairns?

    Hot Air Ballooning in Cairns takes place in the highlands of the Atherton Tablelands, approximately a 1 hour drive west from the Cairns CBD. We fly inland from the coast as the weather conditions are much more reliable and permit us to schedule daily departures all year round. Transfers are available from most hotels in the Cairns CBD.

  • How many people fit into a hot air balloon basket?

    The number of people is determined on the day according to the weather conditions and number of people booked. Our balloon baskets can take up to 24 passengers, so if you are a group we can have you all flying together for your balloons ride in Cairns.

  • What Wind speed can hot air balloons fly in?

    Hot Air Balloons fly best in light stable winds around 4 to 6 miles per hour. Hot Air Cairns flies in the Atherton Highlands approximately a one hour drive inland from the Ocean. the flights are located here as it has some of the best conditions for Hot Air Ballooning in the world with departures scheduled to take off daily all year round. 

  • Do your hot air balloons in Cairns operate on 31st december?

    Hot Air Balloon Cairns operates daily excluding Christmas Day (25th December) and New Years Day (1st January). Our Reservation team are contactable between 8am and 8pm every day of the year. 

  • Is Cairns hot air ballooning running on Christmas day?

    Hot Air has scheduled daily departures all year round except for Christmas Day (25th December) and New Years Day (1st January). Our reservations team are still available between 8am and 8pm every day of the year. 

  • I have booked the train and skyrail combination as well as hot air ballooning. I want know if the train departure can be change to 15:30?

    Yes we are able to amend your train departure time provided the time is available with Kuranda Scenic railway. We will advise you should there be any issues with the details. This can also be amended when you check in with Skyrail, again this is pending availability on the train.

  • what is the maximum number of people or weight limit for the ride?

    We do not have a maximum weight limit per passenger. It is required that all passengers have enough mobility to climb into and out of the basket unassisted. The basket is 1.2 meters in height with two foot holds int he side to use like a step ladder to aid in climbing into and out of the basket. 

    The number of people in the basket varies daily pending on the loadings and conditions. We have different sized baskets that hold from 16 to 24 passengers. 

  • I forgot to check in before my flight, can I still come along in the morning?

    Yes of course! We recommend checking in for your flight a few days prior to departure just to ensure you are familiar with your pick up time and that all of the details are correct. If you have any concerns please click on our live chat button on our website or call us on 07 4039 9900, Our teams are available 8am - 8pm 7 days a week.

  • I am just wondering where the actual hot air balloons leave from in Cairns?

    The balloons launch from the Cairns Highlands around the township of Mareeba. The launch and landing sites vary daily as they are dependent on the mornings conditions. We pick up from most hotels and accommodations in Cairns city or meet in Mareeba at the Heritage Centre.

  • Roughly how long is the in air experience of the extended balloon flight from Cairns?

    We have our daily departure which is a classic flight, we prioritise a safe flight with a suitable landing location over meeting any flight duration targets. Generally speaking, most flights are between 39-65minutes.

    Hot Air sets the standard in the industry with our approach to flight durations, addressing the timeless query: "how long will the flight be?" Discover how our company distinguishes itself from the majority of hot air balloon operators by emphasising "flying to the conditions" rather than pledging fixed flight times. Our priority is safety, not adhering strictly to a clock.

    For more details, visit our website: https://www.hotair.com.au/experience-hot-air-ballooning-without-time-constraints-safe-exciting-and-progressive-approach

  • Is it possible to book in advance? What happens if weather does not permit?

    We recommend booking your departure at least one week ahead. You are welcome to book as far ahead as you like. To confirm your booking we will require credit card information, you can pay on the day with cash or card if you wish.  Cairns provides some of the best weather conditions in Australia for Hot Air BAllooning however, if the weather conditions do not permit flying on your scheduled day we will offer you an alternative travel date or a 100% refund.

  • How much is it for spectator if I already have friends travelling from Cairns?

    If you wish to join your group for a morning of hot air ballooning but do not wish to fly you can book to come along as a spectator for $60 per adult. This cost includes return transfers from your Cairns accommodation, watching the spectacular balloon flight display, cross country balloon chase and packup games and fun. All spectators must travel with people that are already going ballooning.

  • How high can you go in a hot air balloon in Cairns?

    The height the balloon flies depends on the air temperatures and wind patterns on the day. On average balloon flights from Cairns fly at approximately 3000 ft (apx.1000 m) From this height you will be able to view a patchwork of mountains, valleys and Australian bushland. On the way down keep your eye out for local wildlife hopping by!

  • Why do hot air balloons only go up in the morning in Cairns?

    Hot Air ballooning requires stable air temperatures and wind patterns which are mostly occur in the early hours of the morning as the sun is rising. Hot Air Balloon Cairns is fortunate that the conditions are some of the best in the world for ballooning and perfect for take off nearly all year round. We also believe it is a beautiful way to wake up as the scenery is spectacular in Cairns that time of the day!

  • What makes hot air balloons in Cairns fly?

    Hot Air Balloons fly because hot air rises. By heating inside the balloon envelope it mixes with the cool air temperatures outside causing the balloon to float upwards. As the air cools in the balloon it will go back down. To make it go back up again to make the balloon float for longer the pilot will release more heat.

  • ​How much does it cost to go up in a hot air balloon with a transfer from the Cairns Northern Beaches?

    Our most popular ride and daily departure from the Northern Beaches of Cairns.This includes return transfers from Cairns city or Cairns northern beach accommodation, of Palm Cove, Trinity Beach, Clifton Beach and Kewarra beach, Classic Hot Air Balloon flight with a glass of bubbly or Juice on landing and a digital photo package Pricing is available here

  • ​How much does it cost to go up in a hot air balloon from Cairns?

    Our most popular ride and daily departure from the Northern Beaches of Cairns.This includes return transfers from Cairns city or Cairns northern beach accommodation, of Palm Cove, Trinity Beach, Clifton Beach and Kewarra beach, Classic Hot Air Balloon flight with a glass of bubbly or Juice on landing and a digital photo package Pricing is available here

  • Are there any weight restrictions for hot air ballooning?

    As our balloon loadings are weight dependent we just ask that if you are over 100kg that you notify us upon booking your tickets. This will help us to ensure you are in an appropriate position in the basket.

    For safety it is a requirement that all passengers are able to climb in and out of the basket unassisted. The basket is 1.2 meters in height with two foot holes to assist the climb. This will be demonstrated on the day by your ballooning crew.

  • ​How many people fit in the balloon basket?

    The number of passengers in a balloon basket can vary on our daily departure as there are a few factors to consider such as air temperatures and loadings for the day. A commercial balloon basket can between 15 to 24 passengers at a time. 

  • We are staying in the Northern Beaches of Cairns, how long will be up in the Hot Air Balloon?

    We have our daily departure which is a classic flight, we prioritise a safe flight with a suitable landing location over meeting any flight duration targets. most flights are between 39-65minutes.

    Hot Air sets the standard in the industry with our approach to flight durations, addressing the timeless query: "how long will the flight be?" Discover how our company distinguishes itself from the majority of hot air balloon operators by emphasising "flying to the conditions" rather than pledging fixed flight times. Our priority is safety, not adhering strictly to a clock.

    For more details, visit our website: https://www.hotair.com.au/experience-hot-air-ballooning-without-time-constraints-safe-exciting-and-progressive-approach

  • How long is a hot air balloon flight in Cairns?

    We have our daily departure which is a classic flight, we priorise a safe flight with a suitable landing location over meeting any flight duration targets. Most flights are between 39-65minutes.

    Hot Air sets the standard in the industry with our approach to flight durations, addressing the timeless query: "how long will the flight be?" Discover how our company distinguishes itself from the majority of hot air balloon operators by emphasising "flying to the conditions" rather than pledging fixed flight times. Our priority is safety, not adhering strictly to a clock.

    For more details, visit our website: https://www.hotair.com.au/experience-hot-air-ballooning-without-time-constraints-safe-exciting-and-progressive-approach

     

  • Will the flight be 60 minutes non-stop?

    We have our daily departure which is a classic flight, we priorise a safe flight with a suitable landing location over meeting any flight duration targets. most flights are between 39-65minutes

  • Do u guys offer any local price?

    Yes we are happy to offer discounts for locals. We will require proof of residency upon check in. Locals can make a booking HERE or you can contact our reservations team between 8am and 8pm daily. 

  • I’m interested to do a hot air balloon experience and want to propose to my girlfriend. Do you have any suggestions on how to make the morning extra special?

    To make your morning an unforgettable experience we have Proposal packages available. This includes private return transfers, classic balloon flight, gourmet breakfast by the beach and a photo package to download after your morning. For further details on this package click HERE

  • We plan to stay in Yunguburra where is the closest meeting point?

    The closest meeting point is approx a 35 minute drive at the Mareeba Heritage Centre. Upon booking we will advise the meet time.

  • What's the drivers contact number for on the day?

    Our drivers are available to be contacted from 3.30am - 5am on 07 4039 9900, outside these hours you will be able to speak to our reservations team from 8am to 8pm seven days a week. Please ensure you provide us with your contact details so we are able to reach you on the day should there be any delays in your pick up schedule. 

  • What time will we be sent back to the hotel on the express tour? We have a boat cruise at 9am.

    Our Express return departure will return back to Cairns CBD between 8.30am-9am. We are able to drop you off directly to the Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal in time for your boat tour, please advise us upon booking. You will find most of the departures listed in the drop off list when booking. 

  • Once I pay do I receive the tickets?

    In the booking process you will be required to enter your payment and prepay for your tickets to confirm the booking. You can select ZipPay if you wish to pay in smaller amounts. Once your booking has been confirmed with your information you will be emailed the tickets. Please check your spam file if you can not find them straight away.

  • We are 10 people do you do any group discounts?

    If you are a group of 10 or more, we are happy to offer a group discount, please contact our reservations either on our website chat to discuss group discount options as it is subject to availability. 

  • what are the departure and return times if we are staying in Cairns?

    The departure times vary in summer and winter and are always early morning. Pick up from Cairns Hotels is approximately 4am, we will confirm the exact time upon booking. You will return to your hotel around 9.30am

  • What is the best way for me to book ?

    For instant confirmation you can book via our website at www.hotair.com.au alternatively you can call our reservations team between 8am and 8pm AEST daily on 07 4039 9900

  • Where in the hotel do I need to wait at 4.30am? Also will you drop us off to the Skyrail after ballooning?

    Please be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby. Your driver will come in and collect you. You will be dropped to your selected drop off location, this can be at the Skyrail Terminal, Reef Fleet Terminal or Airport.

  • Can we see the reef from the Cairns balloons in October?

    From your balloon you will be able to see outback landscapes, mountains, farm lands and fresh waterways. On clear days you may be able to see through to the ocean but due to distance the Great Barrier Reef can not be seen while ballooning in Mareeba.
    If you wish to go to the Great Barrier reef check out some of our great tour partner combinations for day tours. Tours include Green Island with Great Adventures and the Outer Reef with Quicksilver Cruises.
  • I was just double checking if the balloon ride in the morning is still happening even with all the rain in Cairns city?

    We prioritise safety and will only fly our balloons if the conditions are perfect. Our pilots work very closely with the bureau of meteorology and check the conditions several times through the day. As the conditions can change rapidly, we can only tell if the conditions are suitable or not the evening before the scheduled flight the next morning. In the event of cancelling your balloon flight we will let you know by 5pm the day before. We will offer you an alternative day to travel or a 100% refund.

  • I have already booked the Cairns hot air ballooning tickets, I want to propose to my partner when should I do it?

    Romance speaks for itself while you are floating above the clouds in a hot Air balloon and is perfect for proposing to the special someone. 

    If you are planning to propose please let us know so we can advise our pilots to ensure you are in a suitable position in the basket to do so. They will make sure you have enough space around you in the basket while you are up in the air. 

    We also have packages available to make the morning really special. our proposal package includes private transfers to and from the balloon, 60 minute balloon ride and gourmet breakfast by the beach in Palm Cove. (More Information on Proposal Package Here)

  • Where does your Atherton Tablelands balloon ride launch and land from?

    We have many properties in the Mareeba area that we are permitted to take off and land. These sites are chosen each morning by our Pilots that choose them according to the conditions of the day. To save confusion our self drive meeting location is at the Mareeba Heritage centre, from here we will transfer you to and from the balloon.

  • May I know the time of pick up and return of our Cairns hot air balloon tour?

    Balloon take off times vary summer and winter according with the sunrise. We will confirm the exact time of pick up when you book. All ballooning Australia wide is early morning, which is when the conditions for flying are most suitable. 

  • what time of the day do the flights depart?

    Balloon flights depart according to the sunrise for the cooler air temperatures which are the most permitable for us to fly. Pick up times vary summer and winter. Pick up in the Cairns CBD in summer are between 03.50-4am and in winter are between 4-4.30am.​ 

  • I want to book a flight for two people. How much does it cost to balloon in Cairns?

    For up to date pricing and packages avilable check here https://www.hotair.com.au/cairns.
  • Can we fly in the balloon on Christmas Day in Cairns?

    ​Ballooning in Cairns is scheduled daily all year round with the exception of Christmas Day (25th December) and New Years Day (1st January). To book a flight we recommend buying your tickets at least a week in advance as we do sell out during the holiday season.

  • Am I able to change my pick up location and drop off location please, we are staying in Cairns?

    Changes to your pick up location can be made up until the day before you travel. Please email [email protected] or phone (07) 4039 9900, our reservations team to update your changes. Hot air balloon transfers are available from most hotels and serviced apartments around the Cairns CBD or if you have your own transport you can ask us about our self drive options to book tickets at a discounted rate.

  • The hot air balloon website is not allowing me to proceed past the "let's Start" button - does that mean the date selected is not available for Cairns?

    If you have selected a day for hot air ballooning that is already fully booked then our system will not let you proceed. Please click on our live chat button and double check the details with our reservation team who will be able to give you alternative options. 

  • We are staying in a Palm Cove Hotel, what does self drive mean?

    Self drive is meeting our ballooning team in Mareeba instead of having a transfer from Cairns. We meet at the Mareeba Heritage Centre and from there we will take you to the balloon launch site. Unfortunately we can not have you meet us at the take off site as we depart from private property and we will land in a different location. 

  • I need to change the drop off location for my Cairns balloon trip, how can I do this?

    If you wish to amend any of the details for your ballooning you can click on the live chat button via our website and one of the friendly staff members will be able to assist you right away between 8am and 8pm daily. Alternatively you can email us at [email protected] or by calling 07 4039 9900

  • Is a diving suit a must for snorkelling?

    Balloon with Hot Air Cairns in the early hours of the day and then enjoy a relaxing adventure to Agincourt Reef with Quicksilver Cruises for the rest of your day. Snorkelling equipment and floating devices are included in your ticket and available when you arrive at the pontoon for the day. 

    During the tropical wet season we recommend you make use of the complimentary stinger suits available for your use while you are with Quicksilver on the Great Barrier Reef, these suits are also great sun protection while you are snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef.

  • Can I know the child minimun age for flying in a Balloon in Cairns? Also for infants, is a ticket applicable?

    Sure, we'd be happy to help! The minimum age for a child to enjoy hot air ballooning in Australia is 3 years old, in accordance with aviation laws. We may ask for proof of age for children between 3 and 5 years old. Do note that all children under 17 must be travelling with an adult. Our baskets are 1.2 meters in height, complete with footholds to help you climb in and out.

    For more details, check out our terms and conditions.

  • I have a booking with Hot Air Balloon, Can you confirm it?

    Yes, you can confirm your booking 3 ways, online at www.hotair.com.au/reconfirm you just need to know your 6 digit booking ID number and the name the booking was made under or you can call our office between 8am and 8pm daily on 07 4039 9900 or on our website chat.

  • What should I bring for my balloon ride in Cairns?

    Dress as for a casual walk in the bush, sensible sturdy shoes are recommended. We suggest you bring sunglasses, a hat/cap and dress in layered clothing. During the morning as the sun comes up, the day will become warmer. Remember there is so much to see from an entirely new perspective, you will want to record it all to relive later, your own camera is welcomed on board. Don't forget your cash or credit card for that extra special souvenir of your fantastic hot air balloon experience. if you are visiting the Great Barrier reef after your balloon ride then please bring a bag with swimwear, sunscreen and a towel.

  • how long beforehand should I book if I want to fly from Cairns?

    We recommend booking at least a week in advance but between November to March, that is our busiest times and we suggest booking earlier than that.

    Keep in mind special dates, like mother's and father's day and public holidays always sell out, so book in advance to secure your place. 

  • After my Hot Air balloon flight on the Atherton Tablelands where can I be dropped off?

    We can drop you to a combo tour that you have booked such as to the Reef Fleet terminal, Skyrail Caravonica Station, Kuranda Village, Tjapukai, Blazing Saddles or your accommodation. 

  • Can I extend my Cairns Hot Air Balloon Gift voucher?

    Yes, gift vouchers if advised before the expiry date can be extended for 3 months for $25-, to extend your voucher please call us or chat to us on our website daily between 8am and 8pm AEST​. Please have your ticket reference number available.

  • Which areas of Cairns does Hot Air Balloon offer a door to door transfer?

    We offer a pickup service included in your ticket from all hotels and accommodation between South Cairns to Palm Cove. Pickup times varies between seasons here in Australia, summer and winter, so check your balloon ticket for actual pickup time, specific to your hotel and date of your balloon ride.  We do not pick up from private addresses as we find often it is easy to get lost and delayed. The best place for locals to meet us is at Tjapukai (our last pickup) where you can leave your car and hop onto our bus to be taken to the launch location. Or you can self drive and can meet us at  Mareeba Heritage Centre in Mareeba.  After your flight we can drop you back to your accommodation or to your next tour at the Reef Terminal, Skyrail Caravonica Station, Kuranda village, Tjapukai.

  • Where can I find photos from my balloon ride in Cairns?

     

    You can find the images from the day you flew at midday on the same day you flew on HERE and the password is the number on your flight certificate. The Hot Air staff take a number of photos with different angles such as the morning, portraits, special remote control in flight photos and team pack up photos. We capture the best moments from the morning for you to treasure when you go back home. Once you have purchased the photos, we offer different sizes perfect to post on your social media.

  • Do you fly over the Great Barrier Reef?

    We fly over Mareeba on the Atherton Tablelands, not over the Great Barrier Reef. Mareeba is a perfect place for hot air ballooning, just over one hour drive from Cairns. We don't fly near the coast because morning sea breezes can often make the take off rate unreliable and we would need to cancel the flight,  heading just an hour inland over the mountains and into the valleys close by gives us the most reliable takeoff conditions and a spectacular flight location too. 

  • What time does ballooning return to Cairns?

    Return times vary for each location and individual tour - please let us know what your deadline is and we will see if we can guarantee to make it. Cairns and Port Douglas balloon tour return times are approximately 9.30am, or if the express return tour option is chosen this can be brought forward to 08.30 in order to meet a Reef cruise etc,  there is an extra charge for the Express Tour option. 
    Please refer to the itinerary pages for each tour for a better indication of return times.

  • What can I see from my balloon ride on the Atherton Tablelands?

     

     

    You will mostly be flying over Mareeba, In the local Aboriginal language, Mareeba means meeting of the waters - referring to the point at which the Barron River is joined by Granite Creek. Mareeba is a small country town that has many types of farms such as mangoes, lychees, bananas and sugar. You can see the Great Dividing Range which is flooded in sunlight early in the morning. The Atherton tablelands have a large ecosystem and from the balloon basket you can see kangaroos, cows, horses, cockatoos and small winding rivers.

     

  • What can you do to make my marriage proposal special?

    When booking please advise us that you are planning to propose and we will try to allocate your own section of the balloon basket, please however know that this is not guaranteed. Luxury packages are great as they includes private return transfers and some other extras (ballooning is non-private)

  • Can you drop us off at Cairns International Airport after our Hot Air Balloon ride, before 10am?

    Yes we can drop you off to the Airport if you advise us in advance. If you need to be dropped to the Airport, please let us know your flight number and departure time so we can make the arrangements to have you there.

  • Can you pick us up at Palm Cove apartment and drop us to Cairns Reef Terminal?

    Absolutely! We're more than happy to pick you up from your apartment in Palm Cove and, after your memorable Hot Air Balloon ride, drop you off at the Cairns Reef Terminal. Please do inform us about your preferred drop-off location when you make your booking so we can make the necessary arrangements. Enjoy your journey across the skies and seas!