Enjoy views like no other of the spectacular Gulf Country including Australia’s largest salt pan, Albert River and out over the ocean. See this beautiful natural landscape from a whole new perspective, while learning about the rich cultural heritage of the land and the unique flora and fauna from our local Gangalidda and Garawa crew.
The Indigenous name for Burketown is Moungibi, meaning little island, due to the surrounding salt pans flooding during the wet season. But it’s when the salt pans dry out over the winter months that the spectacular tapestry of the salt pans is revealed, and it is all best viewed from the air.
Sunset flights are scheduled most days and are approximately 30-40 minutes in duration. Occasionally the weather may be better for a flight at sunrise. Your pilot will contact you in advance to let you know if changing the time of your flight is recommended. All flights are followed by a Champagne celebration with your pilot and fellow passengers upon landing.
Balloon Aloft Burketown (Moungibi) adventures fly over the traditional lands of the Gangalidda and Garawa People.
Arrival
On arrival at the at Burketown Visitors Information Centre, located at 87 Musgrave Street, Burketown, you will meet with your pilots and ground crew team. This is a great time to ask any questions you may have as you sign in for your flight. See how the pilot checks the local wind conditions and listen while he or she gives you a short flight briefing.
LAUNCH SITE
Hop aboard our vehicles as we travel out to the day’s chosen launch site. This is determined by your pilot and depends on the wind direction on the day. With over a dozen launch sites to choose from, your experienced pilot will be able to determine the most suitable launch site for the day’s conditions to ensure you have the best possible flight. Once you arrive at the launch site it only takes around 25 minutes for the balloon to be inflated, heated and standing upright ready for boarding. You are welcome to help with the setup of the balloon or simply stand back and take photos as your aircraft takes shape and comes to life.
THE FLIGHT
Your balloon will rise and float gently along the breeze; in your basket you will feel completely secure with virtually no sensation of movement. During your flight you may find yourself drifting just a few hundred feet above the ground then, moments later, effortlessly ascending to heights of 2000 feet or more. Make sure you have your camera ready to capture extraordinary views of the Gulf Country.
LANDING & PACK UP
Depending on the wind speeds on landing, your balloon may touch down with the basket up-right and the balloon above your heads or, in a light breeze, the balloon basket may drag a short distance, with the basket coming to rest on its side. Both landing types are completely normal and lots of fun. The Balloon Aloft Ground Team will be on hand to greet you as your balloon lands. Join in as we deflate the balloon by squishing the air out or feel free to stand back and take photos of all the fun.
