Hot air balloon rides have been popular in Ireland for several decades. The sheer beauty and stunning views one can experience while floating above the countryside have made it a favourite recreational activity amongst locals and tourists alike.
In Ireland, hot air balloons operate in various regions, from the outskirts of Trim to Dublin to the picturesque Killarney National Park. There are also yearly Irish Ballooning Competitions, and they attract a lot of ballooning spectators.
While there are possibly only a few hot air balloon companies that offer rides, the most popular locations to take off from include the nearby towns of Athy and Trim. However, it seems that most of these companies have become insolvent post-covid, as seen by numerous reviews such as these on Tripadvisor.
Key Highlights – Hot Air Balloon Ireland Price
| Description | Flight Route | Days | Price |
| Shared Introductory Flight for One to Four persons | Dublin surrounds | Depends | €275 – €325 |
| VIP Exclusive Introductory Flight for Two persons (Mon-Thurs) | Dublin Surrounds | Mon – Fri | €1,100.00 |
| Gift Vouchers | Dublin Surrounds | Depends | €50 to €500 |
Weather Conditions
During the summer months, especially in recent years, Ireland has been blessed with warm weather, making it ideal for hot air balloon rides. And when they do, especially during competitions, you can see families and couples enjoying the experience of “flying” through the air, taking in the breathtaking views of the expansive green farmlands, rolling hills, and sparkling waterways below.
Passengers can expect an exhilarating experience as they ascend into the sky and soar up to 1,000 feet above the ground. The serenity and peacefulness of the ride is an unforgettable experience that cannot be found elsewhere.
In conclusion, a hot air balloon ride in Ireland offers a unique and unforgettable way to experience the natural beauty of the country. The ride filled with adventure and tranquillity is an experience everyone should have at least once in their lifetime.
Balloon Ride FAQs.
1. Where Can I Buy Tickets in Ireland?
Right now as we speak, I can only recommend one website with a certain degree of certainty:
From my research, it seems any other websites or voucher websites may be very unreliable.
If you would like to buy tickets as a spectator to the annual Irish Ballooning Competitions, visit the IBA website here.
2. What is the Price for a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Dublin – Ireland?
Around €275.00 – €350.00 per person.
Location: Dublin surrounds
Weekends or Weekdays
As for the Ballooning competitions, they happen around September. But keep an eye out on their Facebook page for more information.
3. What month is best for hot air balloon trips?
The short answer is anytime between April and October. And if it is not at all safe, your pilot will make a responsible decision.
4. How far is a Balloon Trip? And How much time?
According to SKy High Adventures Ireland, the distance traveled is down to the wind speed on the day, and can be up to 20 kilometers on some days. On calm days, it might only be a few kilometers.
A typical flight journey would be around 1 hour.
5. What are the Hot air balloons made of?
They are made of durable materials such as nylon, polyester, and vinyl, and the baskets are constructed with rigid materials like wicker, bamboo or steel.
The balloons themselves also come in a variety of colours and designs, from traditional patterns and bright colours to bespoke designs with special themes.
6. How safe is a hot air balloon?
Decades of data show that hot air balloons are one of the safest forms of air travel. Most forms of air travel are considered safer than driving a car. Going by injury and fatality statistics alone, this is also true of hot air balloons.
7. Is there a toilet in a hot air balloon?
What? No!
In general, there are no toilets or any other bathroom facilities in a hot air balloon. Ballooning is not like riding a car where you can stop in a gas station whenever you need to. Therefore, you need to make sure that you take a toilet break before taking off.
8. How should I dress for a hot air balloon ride?
According to ROHR Balloons,
- Boots or sneakers with high socks. Depending on where you will land, it is important to protect your feet from grass burrs, because it’s very likely you will take off or land in a field.
- Pants that you can move easily in.
- Ball cap or hat.
- Layered clothing depending on the weather.
9. Are hot air balloons loud?
Hot air balloon burners are hot and make a loud sound.
So if you or your child is timid or afraid of loud sounds, it may be better to wait until they are older.
10. Do they weigh you before a hot air balloon ride?
Pilots ask their passengers to be weighed before a flight as it is important information for both passengers and pilots. Each has corresponding weight limitations depending on how large the balloons are.
11.What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my flight?
Safety is a top priority, and flights will be rescheduled in case of poor weather. Most operators offer flexible rebooking options or full refunds if a flight cannot proceed.
12. Can I bring a camera or phone?
Yes!
Capturing the stunning views is highly encouraged. Ensure your device is secured with a strap to prevent accidents.
13. Can I book a private or themed hot air balloon ride?
This depends on the operator , how long in advance you order and the specific details of your order.
Themed experiences, such as sunrise flights or wedding proposals are a good way to bargain or negotiate for themed rides to happen.
14. Are there night-time hot air balloon rides in Ireland?
No, flights only occur during daylight hours to ensure safety and visibility.
See our blog to see more – HERE.
