About this tour
Rise before dawn over Melbourne's skyline in a hot air balloon, watching the city emerge from darkness as you drift silently above the Yarra River. This 3–4 hour experience combines the spectacle of controlled flame-powered flight with sweeping vistas of the MCG, Port Phillip Bay, and Eureka Skydeck. Land with an appetite and settle into a full breakfast at the Amora Hotel Riverwalk Richmond to wind down the morning's adrenaline.
Highlights
- Watch sunrise paint Melbourne's landmarks from 300+ metres up
- Float above the Yarra River in near-total silence
- Witness the burner ignite and feel the balloon rise beneath you
- Receive complimentary in-flight photos emailed after landing
- Full buffet breakfast at riverside hotel included
- Suitable for most fitness levels and abilities
What to expect
You'll arrive well before sunrise at the launch site. After a safety briefing and gentle introduction to your balloon and pilot, you'll help steady the basket as the burner roars to life and hot air fills the envelope overhead. The ascent is gradual and remarkably smooth. Once aloft, the city below transforms as morning light spreads across the water and landmarks emerge. The flight lasts roughly an hour of floating and drifting; wind direction determines your exact route. On descent, a small team helps guide the basket down. You'll then head to the hotel for a cooked and cold breakfast spread with other passengers and crew, recounting the morning's views over coffee.
Good to know
Not suitable if pregnant, recovering from spinal surgery, or with serious heart conditions. Service animals welcome. Public transport nearby if you're not driving. Bring layers—it's cooler at altitude. The photographer captures moments at pilot discretion; images arrive via email post-flight.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.





