Take a Namibian Sky Balloon Safari in Namibia
There’s no better way to appreciate Namibia’s vast landscapes than from above, and a balloon over the Namib desert is just the thing to get matters into perspective during your visit to the Land of Sand.
Namib Sky Balloon Safaris is your go-to for these airborne adventures around Swakopmund.
The Team at Namib Sky
Namib Sky was started in 1991 by Eric and Nancy Hesemans, who have recently handed the reins over to husband and wife team, Denis and Andreia Hesemans. Both men are flight instructors and designated examiners for the Namibian directorate of aviation.
Nowadays, Eric and Nancy spend most of their time focussed on the Zambian branch of their operation, while Denis and Andreia run the Namibian operation. The Namibian team consists of 25 members including, pilots, caterers, ground and office staff. The crew at Namib Sky have well over 100 years’ experience between them and have delighted more than 60 000 customers over the years.
The company has 8 hot air balloons in action at a time, all maintained according to precise standards set by the European Aviation Safety Agency. All the pilots are licensed for commercial endeavours and also receive regular updates and proficiency tests to ensure their skills stay razor-sharp.
Thanks to these high standards, everything runs like clockwork – from your first contact until you’re dropped off at your venue of choice after this incredible experience.
What to Expect on a Namibia Balloon Safari
Namib Sky Balloon Safaris offer a range of ballooning experiences from their base near the Sesriem entrance to the Namib Naukluft National Park. Namib Sky has the exclusive rights to operate over the Sossusvlei area, the Kulala Wilderness Reserve and the Namib Rand Nature Reserve.
You’ll depart as the sun rises over the apricot sands of the desert, and go wherever the wind blows during your outing, but you’re guaranteed to enjoy the ride. All of these areas offer incredible sights made all the more impressive by your lofty viewpoint.
As you float along, you pilot will adjust your course and height according to the wind direction and this will determine your final landing spot. The duration of the flight is usually about 1 hour depending on the weather.
Your pilot is in constant contact with the ground crew who will meet you when you float back down to Earth. When you land, a champagne breakfast awaits among the shifting sands and lovely surroundings of the desert.
Afterwards, you’ll get a certificate to prove to your friends that you’ve done it and enjoy a scenic drive back to your starting point.
What to Wear Up in the Air
Apart from suitable walking shoes and comfortable clothing, you needn’t bring anything except your camera. High heel shoes have no place in the desert. Loading a hot air balloon is a precise science, so don’t bring anything extraneous along for the ride.
If you’re a little nervous of heights, you have nothing to worry about, from this far up your brain won’t register any inertia. Besides, the stunning views will soon distract you from your apprehension.
A balloon safari over the desert is guaranteed to be one of the highlights of any trip to Namibia. Get in touch for more information on how to book your flight.
Disclaimer
Please Note: The details shared herein were correct at the time of publishing. However, with time some of this information may change. We recommend confirming information with suppliers prior to making final travel arrangements. If you do happen to find an issue with any information we’ve shared here, please feel free to contact us so that we can make the relevant changes.
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