Chiang Mai Balloon Adventure: Classic Basket Balloon Ride
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September 2026
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Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 29 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Chiang Mai Balloon Adventure: Classic Basket Balloon Ride worth booking?
Chiang Mai Balloon Adventure: Classic Basket Balloon Ride is a 3.3-hour experience in Chiang Mai, Thailand, from $405 per person. It scores 68 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 29 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 68 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (29)
- Duration
- 3.3 hours
- From
- $405 per person
Experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with a hot air balloon ride over Chiang Mai’s stunning countryside at sunrise. Soar up to 2,000 meters high, gliding peacefully through the sky, and enjoy panoramic views of lush
What you get
About this experience
Experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure with a hot air balloon ride over Chiang Mai’s stunning countryside at sunrise. Soar up to 2,000 meters high, gliding peacefully through the sky, and enjoy panoramic views of lush landscapes, ancient temples, and cultural landmarks. Your experienced commercial pilot will guide you over the remarkable terrain, providing a unique perspective of northern Thailand. Upon arrival at the launch pad, located just 10 kilometers from the city center, watch the crew prepare the balloon for takeoff. After a 45-minute flight, celebrate with a delightful breakfast, fresh fruits, hot coffee, tea, and a Champagne toast. Capture magical moments with your camera as you float effortlessly through the skies. Following your journey, enjoy a smooth transfer back to your hotel, arriving around mid-morning. This unforgettable experience leaves you with lasting memories and a signed balloon flight certificate from your professional pilot.
What's included
Included
- Hot Air Balloon flight of approximately 45 minutes
- Welcome Drinks and Coffee Break
- 'Champagne Celebration' after landing
- Return transportation from/to hotels in Chiang Mai city area
- Balloon Flight Certificate
Not included
- Gratuities (optional)
What you'll see and do
Capture the stunning views as you float over the Chiang Mai countryside on a hot air balloon. Take in views of Northern Thailand’s lush landscapes.
50 minutes here
Tweechol Botanic Garden
Beautiful, well maintained gardens of more than 100 acres.
Pass by without stopping
San Sai
San Sai is a district in the central part of Chiang Mai Province in northern Thailand and is adorned with beautiful scenery.
Pass by without stopping
Wat Phra That Doi Saket
Located high in the hills above Chiang Mai, this magnificent temple was commissioned by King Kuena, ruler of the region from 1367-1388.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 30 minutes before departure.
Options you can book
Special Occasion Flight for 2
Special Occassion: This flight is for Anniversary, Marriage Proposal, Birthday and any celebrations. Flower Bouquet or Cake Included Pickup included
Private Balloon Ride
Private Balloon Ride: This is a Private Balloon Ride Pickup included
Shared Basket Balloon Ride
Pickup included
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- I Asia Thailand
Know before you go
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- A child passenger is defined as: aged 5 years to 11 years inclusive AND MUST be above 137cms. in height. (Any person 136cms. or younger no permitted, regardless of age, due to the height of the basket. No child 4 years or younger permitted.
- Passengers over 75 years of age must produce a medical certificate advising fit for flight.
- Balloons/baskets vary in size. Capacity is between 4-8 passengers. Maximum weight is 120 kilograms or 260 pounds. If above this, additional charge of 100% payable at location. If total weight exceeds permissible weight for flight by law, no refund or alternate flight can be offered.
- Passengers must pay full attention to the safety briefing given by the pilot in command before the launch of the balloon, ad questions should be put to pilot if the briefing is not understandable or unclear.
- The pilot’s decision is final on all matters, and he or she has full authority over passengers and crew who are to fully comply with his or her instructions or orders at all times.
- The launch-pad in Amphur Doi Saket may need to be changed due to various factors, such as winds, etc., as instructed by the Chiang Mai airport tower. Operator is the only licensed Thai ballooning company for commercial flights in Thailand, has received approval for commercial flights and Standard Certification by the Department of Civil Aviation Thailand and therefore guarantees all appropriate safety standards are met.
- All pilots are very experienced and fully licensed, having logged hundreds of hours flying passengers in hot air balloons.
- A balloon flight cannot be delayed because of the late arrival of passengers! Because of meteorological reasons like heat and the thermals building up in the early morning hours the balloon has to take off and land on time!
- A Flight assessment will be taken before each flight. Balloon Operator reserves the right to cancel or delay the flight for any safety reasons, unfavourable weather conditions or operational difficulties without prior notice at any time prior to the scheduled departure for any reasons. Full refund will be made.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 29 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Photo opportunities
4 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Organization
4 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Traveler reviews
29 verified traveler reviews for Chiang Mai Balloon Adventure: Classic Basket Balloon Ride. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Fantastic Flight
What a great excursion! The whole experience was top notice. Thank you for the fantastic flight and wonderful memories. This is a “must do” in Chiang Mia!!
Response from the operator: Hi Kathy, Thank you so much for the 'top-notch' review! We are thrilled that you had such a fantastic flight with us. There is truly nothing like watching the sunrise over the Chiang Mai countryside from a balloon basket, and we are so happy we could help you create those wonderful memories. Thank you for the 'must-do' recommendation—we’ll be sure to share your kind words with our pilots and ground crew! Thanks, Nick (IAsia Thailand Online)
via Tripadvisor
Skilled off and landing,...
Skilled off and landing, fantastic views, and an unforgettable experience. I highly recommend to anyone who is not afraid of heights.
Response from the operator: Hi Lenore, Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re so glad to hear you enjoyed the smooth takeoff and landing, stunning views, and the unforgettable experience overall. Your recommendation means a lot to us! It's great to know the adventure left such a strong impression — definitely a treat for those with a head for heights! Thanks, Nick (IAsia Thailand Online)
via Viator
Exciting Balloon Ride Chiang Mai
Amazing way to start the day. Very well organized and friendly staff. The balloon captain was great and got us down safely.
Response from the operator: Hi Felix, Thank you for your review! 🎈✨ We're thrilled to hear that you had an amazing start to your day with the Chiang Mai Balloon Adventure! It's great to know that the experience was well-organized and that the team was friendly and professional. Safety is always a top priority, and we’re glad you felt in good hands with the balloon captain. We hope to see you again for another unforgettable adventure! Thanks, Nick (IAsia Thailand Online)
via Viator
It was a truly amazing...
It was a truly amazing experience worth every penny. The pick up was right on time arrived to coffee and snacks. The pilot a true pro 14 years of flying the take off and landing so smooth not even a bump. The scenery was fantastic have your camera ready!! It can get a little hot in the basket but not uncomfortable. Champagne toast and chatting with the pilots at the end was great and the picture with the certificate that I did it was a nice touch. Thank you for making this so memorable.
Response from the operator: Dear Joann, Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear that your Chiang Mai Balloon Adventure was such a memorable experience and worth every penny. It’s great to know that everything, from the timely pickup to the smooth takeoff and landing, met your expectations. We’re especially glad you enjoyed the breathtaking scenery, the champagne toast, and the special certificate to commemorate your flight. Your kind words about our experienced pilot mean a lot, and we’ll be sure to share your compliments with the team. We truly appreciate you choosing to fly with us and hope to welcome you on another adventure in the future! Best regards, Nick (IAsia Thailand Online)
via Viator
1st class ballooning experience
1st Class experience, we had been looking forward to a balloon ride for years and decided that we would book it while on holiday in Chiang Mai. It was absolutely amazing from take off to landing. We couldn't fault any part of this experience. It was peaceful and the landing was very very gentle. Thank you for turning a dream into a wonderful experience
Response from the operator: Hi John, Thank you for sharing your fantastic experience with us! We’re delighted to hear that your long-awaited balloon ride lived up to your expectations and became such a memorable part of your holiday in Chiang Mai. It’s wonderful to know you enjoyed the peaceful journey and the gentle landing. We’re honored to have been part of making your dream come true and hope to welcome you back for more magical adventures in the future! Thanks Nick (IAsia Thailand Online)
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 3.3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $405 to $36000
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 10
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Why this scores 68
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Chiang Mai Balloon Adventure: Classic Basket Balloon Ride: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Chiang Mai.
How much does Chiang Mai Balloon Adventure: Classic Basket Balloon Ride cost?
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Prices start at $405 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Chiang Mai usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Chiang Mai Balloon Adventure: Classic Basket Balloon Ride take?
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Plan for about 3.3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Chiang Mai is not rushed.
Is Chiang Mai Balloon Adventure: Classic Basket Balloon Ride worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 68 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 29 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Chiang Mai, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Chiang Mai Balloon Adventure: Classic Basket Balloon Ride?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Chiang Mai Balloon Adventure: Classic Basket Balloon Ride suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3.3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Chiang Mai Balloon Adventure: Classic Basket Balloon Ride?
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Around 10 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Chiang Mai can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Chiang Mai and add a light layer if any part of the 3.3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Chiang Mai Balloon Adventure: Classic Basket Balloon Ride start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Chiang Mai within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Chiang Mai?
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On Outty we rank every Chiang Mai experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Half-Day Thai Cooking Class at Organic Farm in Chiang Mai, Full Day Thai Cooking at Farm (Chiang Mai), Thai and Akha Cooking Class in Chiang Mai. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Chiang Mai?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Chiang Mai?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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