Review / Bali’s first hot air balloon ride reviewed – what’s it like to take Tanah Gajah’s ride over the Island of the Gods

If you’ve ever wanted to go on a hot air balloon ride in Bali, the wait is over. Tanah Gajah, a Resort by Hadiprana, is the first on the island to offer visitors a chance to soar in the skies above Bali’s famed rice paddies.

The set-up

No matter if you’re an in-house guest or not, visitors can enjoy the opportunity to step into a wicker basket and take to the blue skies for a first of its kind experience in Bali. Giving you a perspective of the island – and Ubud, in particular – like never before, the 23-metre colourful balloon rises 50 metres above ground and floats at the end of a tether for five to seven minutes.

Per government law in Bali, nothing can float above the temples that stretch across the island. This is why the balloon is tethered to the ground.

There are multiple flights scheduled at three times each day – at dawn, in the late afternoon, and just after moonrise.

The hospitality

A certified pilot joins you in the basket and there are more than enough staff on hand to prepare the balloon – preparatory bursts of fire, secure the tethered ropes, ensure a smooth lift-off and a light landing.

Riders can choose a morning or afternoon package that includes breakfast or afternoon tea, or a dinner package. There’s also an ultimate experience that offers a five-course dinner post-ride on a private platform in the middle of the paddies.

Location