Getting up at 4 am in the morning, is never much fun, unless you`re about to catch a flight to a new destination or when you`re about to have a unique experience. Going on a hot air balloon ride counts as one of those experiences you gladly get up for at the crack of dawn. The last time I went up in a hot air balloon, was 16 years ago and the scenery wasn`t as spectacular as now. I`m at Wadi Rum in Jordan and about to go up in the air.
Another advantage of starting your day really early, you get to witness the sun waking up and catch a beautiful sunrise in the desert.
It`s interesting to see how they get everything ready and it`s hard to believe that a balloon can take 5 people (sometimes up to 16!) in a basket. It`s definitely a special way of flying. You could even describe it more as floating in the air.
Our balloon
This flame makes sure we keep up in the air… and gives a nice warm feeling while you`re enjoying the spectacular views over Wadi Rum.
Join me on this dazzling trip over Wadi Rum.
Some Practical Info
If you want to do this yourself, these trips are offered by Royal Aero Sports. Dress in layers, as in the morning it`s cold. If you`re in a smaller basket with only 5 people like me, you`re closer to the flame and that gives warmth up in the air.
These trips are very weather related and get confirmed on the day you leave. Lots of it has to do with the wind. We didn`t travel that far because there wasn`t much wind. But it was still a wonderful experience!
Not fond of hanging high in the sky, but still want to experience an adventure? Check out what it`s like to climb the highest mountain of Wadi Rum.
*Thanks to the Jordan Tourism Board for inviting me to Jordan and letting me experience this special trip over Wadi Rum.
Special thanks to Nikon for letting me test the Nikon D7000 and the AF-S DX Nikkor 18-200 mm f/3.5-5.6 G ED VRII camera lens.
Incredible. Seems like an amazing experience. Ashamed to say that I live in Jordan and have not yet done this! Definetly on the list.
Best,
@eculturesdaniel
That`s usually how it goes, we discover other destinations first 😉 Glad it inspired you to put on your list though!
Spectacular photography. How’d you enjoy the use of the Nikon D7000 and lens?
I’ve never been in a hot air balloon 🙁
What an amazing adventure this must have been!
Thanks! The D7000 was nice to work with. I usually shoot with my D3100, but Nikon lets me test other models. The D7000 is obviously more professional. I love the 18-200 mm lens, I think it`s the perfect travel lens, as you don`t have to changes lenses all the time. Here`s my lens review: https://www.isabellestravelguide.com/nikon-camera-lenses-review.html.
Being up in a hot air balloon is quite the adventure. If you`re not afraid of heights, I would definitely recommend it.