Hot Air Ballooning
Have you ever wanted to experience the freedom of flight without the peril of a high-risk adventure sport? A peaceful, sunrise float over the lush rainforest canopy may sound like a dream scene straight out of The Wizard of Oz, but in a Costa Rican hot air balloon, this fantasy can become a reality.
read more closeThe hot air balloon, which operates on the simple concept that hot air rises, is the oldest successful method of carrying human beings aloft. The first triumphant human flight dates back to 1783 in Paris, France. Because of a balloon’s old-fashioned feel and complete isolation, fliers feel suspended above the world.
Hang suspended above the world, enjoying gorgeous views on an old-fashioned balloon ride.
Guests relax while taking in spectacular scenery, knowing that they are in the hands of only the most experienced pilots, who all hold International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) licenses. Due to climatic conditions, balloons only fly at sunrise, taking off between 5:00-5:45 a.m. This allows sightseers to take advantage of the most picturesque time of the day. Hot air balloons can reach breathtakingly high altitudes, allowing one-of-a-kind opportunities to see magnificent countryside, exotic wildlife and active volcanoes from a bird’s-eye view. For a thrilling change of pace, upon request your guide may also swoop down close to the ground like an eagle on a hunt.
Ballooning is offered in the Ciudad Quesada area, 20 miles east of Arenal. Half-day expeditions typically end around 9:30 a.m. Groups of up to five people can charter whole day adventures which include breakfast, lunch, round-trip transfer to and from most hotels in the La Fortuna area, and best of all, the exclusive use of the hot air balloon. In ideal weather conditions, guests can witness the brilliant eruptions of Arenal Volcano above the clouds. Named one of the world's top ten balloon trips by Forbes Magazine, the experience is peaceful and serene - and one you will not soon forget.