While visiting Luxor Egypt, I had the incredible opportunity to take a hot air balloon ride over the area. I’m afraid of heights so I was extremely nervous, but I wasn’t going to let fear get in the way of this once in a lifetime ride over Egypt. As soon I posted the pics, I received various questions from friends and followers about my experience. Here are some FAQ’s about the experience.
What did you wear?
I layered up in some casual clothes, and had more clothes in reserve in my backpack. My biggest concern was if it was going to be really cold once we started to rise. We went in the middle of October, which the lows were in the 70s, so I decided to wear grey light weight harem pants, a tank top, and jean jacket…but in my backpack I stored away a scarf, sweatshirt, and a sweater just in case we were told by the flight crew that it will get colder when we go up. But what I quickly learned was that it’s not called hot air ballooning for no reason! We felt the heat from the flames as the balloons are being prepped. As soon as the group stepped in the basket, there is a warmth (read: strong heat) that puts all fears aside of a freezing, uncomfortable flight. Turns out I couldn’t bring the backpack in the basket anyway, I left it in the transfer van that we came in, but was completely fine with just my jean jacket.
Were you able to bring cameras and equipment on the flight?
DSLR cameras were not allowed in the basket, only cell phones were allowed.
How long were you in the air?
Our ride was about 45-50 minutes, however we waited for close to an hour on the ground before getting permission from the radio tower to take off.
How many people were on your flight?
There were 16 people that went on our flight. There are five compartments in the balloon’s basket, one is in the center, reserved for the pilot, and the other four baskets fit four people each comfortably. There were different size baskets, some that were larger, and others that were smaller.
Was it scary?
I’m afraid of heights and I was really nervous of how I would react to the flight. As we first started to ascend I stayed focused on the horizon and tried not to look down too much. After about 10 minutes I relaxed more, I could barely tell we were moving. I was able to enjoy the flight without apprehension. We literally floated gently up in the air, there weren’t any sudden jerks, movements, or surprises. It was extremely peaceful. The scariest part was signing your life away with all the paperwork before heading onto the flight!
How much did the ballon ride cost?
It was $175 USD for the experience. We were asked to provide tips for the ground crew. Additionally, we were able to purchase a DVD or USB with pictures or images from the morning that was an additional $20.
What did you see?
We flew over temples, one of them being Hatshepsut’s. We also were able to see the stark difference between the green lush land and the sandy desert juxtaposed next to each other. It was an amazing feeling to see and hear life wake up as we were gently floating above the fields and desert. It was peaceful, and relaxing. I made it a point to put down my cell phone to take in the moments of serenity.
What company did you fly with?
We flew with Sindbad Balloons. The guide picked us from the hotel, took us to a small boat to ferry us across the Nile River, then we were driven to the launch area. After the flight, we were taken back to the Nile for our boat ride back, where the guide and the other employees hosted a little dance party for us. It was an incredible experience with an amazing crew, on ground and above!