From start to finish a first class adventure. Our pilot Helena and her 2 helpers,her son and Miguel were fantastic. I felt 100 percent safe in their capable hands. This is a ride everyone should take. It's beautiful to see sunrise from the air. After our ride we enjoyed a lovely sparking wine with snacks. The view from above is not to be missed. Thank you for a wonderful day in the skies!
About Activity
What's Included
Includes
- Transport back to the launchsite
- Hotel transfer available at extra cost
- Complimentary photos and videos
- Post flight celebation - Bubbly and local juices
- Pre flight biefing
- Appox 1 hour flight
- Guaranteed Good Times
- Insurance
- Flight Certificate
Excludes
- Hotel transfers not included
Departure & Return
Departure Point
- Our base is the Aeodrome of Lagos is just off the EN125 on the East side of Lagos. Follow the Aerodrome sign board. But we normally take off in a 20km radius from there. So meet us at the launchsite which will be confirmed the day before, depending on wind direction.
Return
- Our base is the Aeodrome of Lagos is just off the EN125 on the East side of Lagos. Follow the Aerodrome sign board. But we normally take off in a 20km radius from there. So meet us at the launchsite which will be confirmed the day before, depending on wind direction.
Itinerary
With no ties, destination and time limitations we ride the winds of the barrocal valleys in the western Algarve or the warmer breezes of the rolling hills of the Baixo Alentejo. Travelling at the same speed as the wind you will enjoy a sensation of unique privilege and experience absolute silence . Hopping over the inland hills, lakes and villages you will explore the Algavian hidden countryside. Progressing onwards to viewing the entire Algarve at high altitude. Exploring local agriculture and economy. Finally approaching the pictureresque coastline and it´s fishing villages for a tranquil landing. With such a diverse landscape, a 1 hour of flight time will leave memories that will last a lifetime. The flight is about 1 hour but The whole trip can take 3-5 hours … Whether a birthday, anniversary, important occasion or even a “must do” … we promise all our passengers a wonderful time!
The highest mountain, Monchique, in Southern Portugal will set the backdrop for ou flights
We always aim for this beautiful town
View how this fishing village nestles along the Alvor Estuary
Language Offered
Additional Info
Cancellation Policy
Reviews
Every moment was filled with emotion. Watching the sunrise and admiring the breathtaking Algarve landscape from above was magical. Helena , who has 35 years of experience, were friendly, professional, and genuinely welcoming. Helena’s enthusiasm and love for both her profession and passengers made the experience even more special. Before the flight, she provided clear instructions and carefully explained everything, giving us a strong sense of safety and confidence throughout the journey. Flying with Helena, her son Daniel was a pleasure, and we will treasure these wonderful memories for years to come. Highly recommended to anyone wishing to experience the Algarve from a spectacular new perspective!
Incredible experience, would recommend. The team was prompt and informative. Relaxed atmosphere… go .…
Excellent morning out with the team. Good comms prior to meeting up followed by a professional experience from beginning to end. Champagne picnic was a nice bonus. Highly recommended!
A fantasic experience. One ticked off the bucket list. Highly recommend. Helena and the team were great!
What a fantastic experience! Helena is a master of her craft and her knowledge and experience shone to give us a magical experience with a beautiful sunrise! Thank you to the team at Algarve Balloons! Eitti, Ireland!
So fun! So many pictures and a great landing!
It was a great journey!! Thank you so much.
Floating peacefully over the countryside at sunrise was an unforgettable, bucket-list experience that exceeded every single expectation. From the moment we arrived, the team made us feel welcome, safe, and genuinely cared for. They are simply wonderful people who bring so much warmth, passion, and positive energy to the entire adventure. Our pilot was a true expert—incredibly knowledgeable, calm, and skilled. You can immediately tell you’re in the hands of a seasoned professional, which allowed everyone on board to completely relax, take deep breaths, and soak in the breathtaking views. The sheer serenity of drifting above the clouds and watching the landscape unfold beneath us created beautiful memories that we will cherish forever. If you’re on the fence about booking, do it! A five-star experience from start to finish. Thank you Helena
We had an amazing flight with Helene watching the sunrise and then a picnic where we landed! It was a great experience and I would really recommended them
Wonderful experience from start to finish.. Helena and her gang really know their stuff and the views were fantastic 😍 felt so safe and would definitely recommend 👌🏽 .. little lunch afterwards with everyone was a really nice touch. Worth every penny 🙌🏼
Amazing experience! It was beautiful from start to finish. The pilot and crew were friendly and awesome in every way. We even got pictures and videos from them!
From beginning to end this was a fantastic experience. Communication was excellent with Helena, we were due to fly Wednesday but weather was not suitable, rescheduled to Friday. It is an early start but so well worth it. Hot drinks and cookies on arrival, excellent instruction and safety talk before take off. A very relaxed vibe, Helena & Daniel were excellent, very smooth take off and felt so safe. Beautiful views, the wind didn’t take us exactly where Helena wanted to go towards the coast but we did have a view of the sea. Lovely soft landing. Had a lovely glass of champagne or orange juice afterwards with a lovely spread of crackers section of cheeses etc. Again such a relaxed vibe, lovely to have a chance to chat to Helena and her team and other passengers. A bucket list item ticked off! Great experience and would highly recommend.
Fantastic and really helpful. Made it a really inclusive experience for disabilities. Safe, serene and sensational . Thank you!
Absolutely fabulous experience. Helene is just so amazing. Her experience shines through and makes everyone feel very comfortable! Teaches as much about ballooning as you can soak in and tells of the beautiful sights of the Algarve. I can’t say enough great things! The ground crew was fun and helpful as well, pre and post ride snacks were fantastic!
An amazing experience with Helena and her newly qualified son Daniel. Very professional and I felt very safe and cared for. Helena even bought along a ladder to allow easier access! Thankfully I didn’t need it. It was a dream come true for me and exceeded all my expectations, thank you!
This was recently purchased for me as a gift from my partner while we were on holiday. Do not be put off by the early start, I can assure you it's definitely worth it. Helena and her family/crew were all so welcoming and made you feel totally at ease. It was a very relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere throughout the experience. We were offered a range of hot drinks and cookies before the flight. The flight itself was an amazing experience, if you've never experienced balloon flight, I would 100% recommend it, it was so serene. Watching the sunrise and the panoramic views over the Algarve was just gorgeous. Helena was always happy to answer questions and offered great insight into what we were seeing. After we landed & everything was packed up we were treated to champagne and a lovely selection of cheeses, hams, local delicacies, everything was really considered and delicious. Overall I would 100% recommend this experience to anybody, it's one of those things you should definitely tick off in life. I cannot speak highly enough of Helena and her family/crew, they were all lovely and make the experience what it is, wonderful.
Absolutely brilliant - my other half and I are still buzzing from the experience. Helena was super helpful when organising the booking, keeping us fully informed when to call to check the trip was on, and where to meet - wouldn't let me pay until the trip was actually completed! As for the flight, we arrived pre-dawn at the designated take-off site, were given a thorough safety briefing and in a very short time were airborne- in time to see the sun rising over the horizon! The flight went really well, just over an hour , and Helena kept us informed and entertained throughout, whilst piloting the balloon in an utterly professional manner. The views were amazing. She brought us in for a really slick landing (YMMV - she did warn us that faster landings could be lively, but prepared us for that possibility and had us practice before and during the flight the position to adopt), after which we helped pack up the balloon envelope with her team of -again- very professional errmmm.... balloonists? Glass of champers and tasty nibbles afterwards, then we were ferried back to the tale-off point by Helena. Upshot? We had the most brilliant time and we thoroughly recommend Algarve Balloons!
Wonderful experience. Helena is an exceptional pilot and hostess, supported with a team of great guys. From the early welcome with coffee to the after landing party it has been great.
This was something I’d always wanted to do and am so glad i finally did The whole experience was incredible from beginning to end From the coffee and biscuits before the flight to the champagne picnic at the end The flight itself was so peaceful and scenic from the mountains to the sea in the distance We were made to feel so comfortable and safe in Helena’s very experienced hands , it was an experience we’ll never forget 🩷
This was a once in a lifetime experience. The company was extremely responsive to our inquiries, both in scheduling, and to follow up for confirmation. We stayed at a resort in Lagos, and were able to arrange transportation to the take off site for an additional fee. Fernando met us in the lobby, and was very personable. At the launch site, while the balloon was inflated, Daniel and Helena went over the safety briefing while we got to enjoy some tea, coffee, and light snacks. This, along with the background roosters singing, while the sun rose was the perfect start to the day. When the balloon was inflated, and upright, we got to board, and though we were a group of 10 strangers in a basket, it still felt like a private trip, as the basket was sectioned off nicely. The take off was smooth as we felt weightless flying up into the air. The views were breathtaking. Helena spoke on some Algarve history, and pointed out some key areas to look out for. The landing was equally as smooth, and we landed in a field. Once the balloon was packed away, we got to enjoy a light breakfast that consisted of some cheeses, crackers, and some veggie options . The sparking wine was a nice way to celebrate the beautiful trip we went on. We were provided with a flight certificate, and for those who drove to the departure site were transported back to their vehicles, and we were transported back to our resort. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity and a very beautiful place to enjoy the views from up above. Thank you to Helena, Fernando, and the rest of the crew for making this a very memorable experience
It was just wonderful to fly across the Algarvian landscape as the sun rose. It was a beautiful experience which I would highly recommend. Above all, Helena and her team made the experience extra special with their knowledge of ballooning in other localities, the science of ballooning and their love of the Algarve.
Wow what a great experience. Booking was easy and the team were always on hand if we needed anything. The views were breath taking, very peaceful.
It was truly amazing, so wonderful to see the beautiful countryside and sunrise from above, the team and our pilot Helena were amazing, we felt well looked after and extremely safe, what an experience, with out a doubt would do it again! Got the bug!
The whole trip is professionally done. Such fun! Helena is very knowledgeable and informative. My granddaughter and I had a fabulous trip!
From the moment we arrived at the takeoff site we experienced nothing but first class service and professionalism. We were greeted with coffee/tea and biscuits. We then received info on the flight and on the wind speeds and travel. Safety was made a priority for all. The flight was smooth and quiet when burners were not engaged. The view was breathtaking!!! Landing was smooth as can be and the wine/snacks were delicious and welcomed. Just cannot say enough good things about Helena and her crew. Do NOT miss this adventure.
Amazing experience, this should be on everyone’s bucket list. Helena and her family were great fun and very professional.
Amazing experience. Helena and crew took great care of us. A 20th Anniversary treat for my husband and I. It exceeded our expectations, beautiful day, breathtaking views and a lovely spread of cheese, meats and champagne to celebrate. Would highly recommend.
It was an amazing experience to be floating in silence over the Algarve landscape. The crew were amazing. They were attentive, and accommodating to all passengers. I would recommend the experience to others who are travelling to the Algarve area.
Our family was visiting Portugal celebrating my daughter's college graduation. I made reservations for my husband daughter and I to do the hot air balloon experience. I was very excited but a little nervous about it as my husband is afraid of heights and we really did not know what expect. The day we had scheduled it for was cancelled because of winds. Helene was able to reschedule us to the following day. It was a fantastic experience from beginning to end. When we arrived on site Helene welcomed us warmly and had coffee and cookies. She explained that we would be taking off as soon as our fellow passengers arrived. Before boarding the balloon she gave our thorough instructions. Once we were in flight she had complete command of the balloon, checking that all of us were fine and having a good time. The experience was a whimsical and peaceful. Helene and her crew are amazing and made us feel like family. I recommend this experience without reservation and hope I can do another one again. Make sure you book it at the beginning of your stay in case of wind. Thank you very much Helene from the Gallagher Family.
Four generations of our family travelled to Portugal for 3 weeks mid June - early July, 2024 and enjoyed an amazing Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Flight over the Algarve. The crew and pilot were amazing and made you feel safe and welcomed. The view was out of this world and sunrise?? Perfect!! Thank you from the bottom our our hearts for this amazing adventure, well worth it on all accounts!! Sally & Gerry
This was a bucket list activity for me and it definitely didn’t disappoint. It was simply amazing. I highly recommend Algarve Balloons. So professional and friendly. It was the highlight of my 3-week vacation in Portugal! Don’t miss your chance to experience this truly unforgettable activity.
Helena and team were great and the ride was breathtaking. Would request to anyone wanting to do an excursion while in the Algarve!
Our family had the best time on this flight; it felt like a true once-in-a-lifetime experience to glide effortlessly above the Algarve during sunrise. Helena, our pilot, was friendly and professional and made me feel at ease. After landing, there was a lovely little picnic; it was the perfect end to an unforgettable morning. If you’re looking to add a truly special experience to your Algarve vacation, look no further; this experience is absolutely worth your time and money!
I unequivocally recommend this experience. This is coming from someone who watches his spending and is somewhat afraid of heights. The countryside is beautiful and the pilot and equipment are top notch. Our pilot, Helena, demonstrated her years of experience through her careful preparation and command of the balloon. She is a great communicater. Her calm, confident demeanor was infectious. If you plan to only take one hot air balloon ride in your life, take this one.
Great views. Never been in a hot air balloon before and it was a very nice time. Delicious picnic and great hospitality.
Fabulous experience. Helena and her family were do lovely. .would 💯 recommend doing this. Helena made sure everyone was relaxed safe and had a good time.
Such a great way to see the Algarve region. I felt safety was a very high priority. Go! You'll love it
absolutely stunning views, great crew! went out of their way to make our first balloon ride a forever memory!!
It was great to fly today. Thanks for the photo and for the communication until late to arrange us before the flight.
We had a gorgeous morning and the flight was perfect. Communication with the pilot the night before was excellent and she was a bundle of joy and energy during the trip. It was a safe and professional flight and we enjoyed talking with the pilot and other guests.
Unforgettable experience!! You are fantastic! Thanks to the kindness of Helena and her staff we had the opportunity to live a dream! Michele & Vanessa
Had the most amazing experience! 50th birthday gift to Husband and Dad of our 3 boys. Met on arrival with a much needed coffee. Biscuits and chocolate milk for the kids. Helena and her crew were nothing but professional. From the off we knew we were in safe hands. So happy we chose this once in a lifetime, never to be forgotten experience. Thanks to all the crew.
An amazing experience. So smooth and spectacular. We all loved it. My wife did not know what was happening, she was shocked but delighted. Our pilot, Helena, gave us confidence with her professional skills. A really gentle landing. Brilliant.
The hot air balloon flight was the highlight of our trip to the Algarve! After a few reschedules due to wind conditions, we were rewarded with a clear morning and light winds and were able to fly for quite a distance. Helena (pilot), Miguel & Aldis (ground crew and pilots-in-training) were an absolute delight - professional, safe, and personable. We were invited to participate in the set-up and pack-up the balloon before/after the flight, which was lots of fun and added to the entire experience. We learned a great deal from Helena about the area and about balloon flight in general - very fascinating! We felt extremely safe during the entire flight, including a very gentle take-off and landing. We would highly recommend this adventure when visiting the Algarve! One piece of advice would be if you are staying in the area for a period of time, reserve the balloon flight early in your stay so you have other potential options to reschedule if the weather conditions are not suitable for flying. Thanks again Helena and team!
What an adventure it was!!! From arriving and inflating the balloon to drifting above the rooftops and seeing the algarve in a truly magnificent way while the sun come up. Even for someone who is afraid of heights the pilot Helena (and her crew) were amazing, they checked everyone was happy and comfortable with everything and the whole experience was incredibly smooth and well explained leaving you calm and able to fully enjoy what was truly a memorable experience. If you get the chance, do this.
Espetacular. From the beginning to the end. This was my girlfriend birthday present, and waht a present it was. Our pilot was superb. The views were Incredible, all around it was an awsome experience that is recommended to everyone I've lived in Algarve for 25 years and only now I discovered that the best views are from up there.
This was one of the most incredible experiences we had and will stay unforgettable. The organization starts at 07:00 pm the day before the scheduled flight. We called Helena to confirm if the flight can take place the next morning. As balloon pilot she has to check the weather condition and wind direction to plan departure and landing zones. In our case we had to re-schedule the flight two days later due to the forecasted wind. So be prepared to be a bit flexible and do not schedule it at the end of your holiday. The alarm clock rang early in the morning so that we could make it on time. We met Helena and her team at 06:40h am at the coordinates she sent us via WhattsApp. They built a small picknick table with coffee and cookies. As interesting as the flight itself, is setting up the balloon and tearing it down afterwards. The more hands the better, so feel free to help :). Bring some long trousers and a light jacket, as it may be chilling cold in the morning. It will become quite warm soon after sunrise. As the balloon flows with the wind, you will hardly feel any wind „on board“. After landing and packing the balloon we were brought back to the starting point. We were allowed to drive in the balloon basket on the trailer. That is as fun as the flight itself. Helena was so gentle and full of passion. She was a wonderful host from the beginning until the end, always caring about their guests. Indeed this trip raised our desire for more ballooning.
A once in a lifetime experience, would highly recommended. It really was an amazing trip, and organising it could not have been easier with the help of Helena who also organised transport from our hotel in Lagos. We had a beautiful morning for the balloon ride and met some fabulous people too! You really are floating!
Such a lovely team led by our pilot, Helena whose relaxed style belies her great skill and professionalism. If we were nervous to start with that all vanished as we took off into a sublime sunrise. Stupendous views were supplemented by the humorous commentary from Helena and spirited conversation with our basket mates! The champagne was hardly needed but lovely anyway. An amazingly gentle landing at a mystery location was followed by an impromptu lesson on raw, wild carob eating. What a way to start the day! Thank you xxx
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