A bucket list experience, the magic begins at sunrise. Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safari, offers a once – in -a – lifetime experience.
The hot air balloon safari lifts off at dawn after some tea, coffee and light snacks. Once inside the woven cane basket, guests receive a flight briefing before take off. Flames from the burners light the morning sky as the pilot does some final safety checks. The one hour flight will give you a bird’s eye view of the magnificent Magalies River Valley and Magaliesburg Mountain range and the Hartebeesport dam in the distance.
The balloon floats silently above farm lands, giving one a birds eye view of what happens below. Suspended beneath the rainbow-coloured canopy , you will be amazed at the stillness of the morning. Drifting wherever the current takes you and providing enough time for photography and filming.
Our pilot Marc, has been flying for over 20 years, both locally and internationally. As with other aircraft it is necessary for the pilot to gain a license and maintain his hours. All pilots employed by Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris are, of course, legal and compliant. As an airline Bill Harrop’s falls under the auspices of SA Civil Aviation and is therefore well monitored. The pilot will do pre- checks and keep a close eye on the weather conditions. While floating in the sky Marc also shared his knowledge on the surrounding landscape and explained what he did while flying the balloon, putting everyone at ease.
Wherever the balloon lands guests and crew will in the time honoured tradition of balloon flights , toast their return to earth with a glass of champagne or orange juice while the pilot recites the Balloonist Pray. Once complete everyone climbs into the bus and is driven back to the Bill Harrop’s Clubhouse Pavilion and Restaurant where you can indulge in a delectable and scrumptious breakfast at the Pavilion while Bill Harrop hands out certificates to all the brave passengers who “ had the courage and fortitude to ascend “ .
Fast Facts
Children must be over 7 years to fly
Children under the age of 12 year receive 50% off the published rate
Bill Harrop’s has a fleet of 6 balloons
Land crew is between 3 to 4 dependent on the size of the balloon.
Balloons carry between 2 – 18 passengers dependent on weight and other factors
Balloons are manufactured in the UK
The envelope (colourful section )is made of a variety of fabrics including nomex which is closest to the burner and the gores ( colourful panels ) are made of a nylon called Galvinor.
Bill Harrop is the Chief Pilot and still flies. He is still as passionate today about flying as he was when he first stepped into a balloon.
Bill began his business in 1981, a few years earlier he saw a balloon, dashed off and met the pilot & decided this was what he wanted to do. He never looked back.
Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safari became a fully licensed domestic non scheduled airline in June 1981
With 5 aviation safety awards, perfectly maintained equipment , professional pilots and friendly crew you couldn’t make a better decision when deciding to fly with Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safari.
Contact:
Head office ( 011) 705 – 3201
Mobile: 083 443 2661
Email: website@balloon.co.za
