Sunrise or sunset?
When booking a balloon ride, you're almost always asked the same question: would you rather fly early in the morning or late in the afternoon? We've deliberately kept both as our fixed departure slots, because they're the only two times of day when the wind is usually calm enough for a safe take-off. Which one suits you best mostly comes down to the kind of experience you're after.
There's no wrong answer — our pilots fly at both times throughout the season, and flight duration, price and approach stay identical. Below, we lay out the differences so you can choose with confidence.
Sunrise
Departure early in the morning, usually half an hour to an hour before sunrise. The landscape is still at that hour: mist sometimes hangs low over the fields, animals are active and it's strikingly quiet — you'll rarely meet anyone else. The air is fresh and clear, making for sharp, far-reaching views. Ideal for early risers and anyone who loves a serene, almost meditative mood.
Sunset
Departure in the late afternoon or early evening, with the flight running on past sunset. The light turns warm orange and pink, and you round off the day instead of starting it — handy for anyone who'd rather not set off before dawn. After landing, you can head straight into dinner or an evening with family or friends.
Five differences at a glance
| Sunrise | Sunset | |
|---|---|---|
| Departure time | Very early, before dawn | Late afternoon / early evening |
| Temperature | Coolest, often crisp and clear | Still warm from the day |
| Light & photos | Soft, clear light, sometimes mist | Warm orange and pink tones |
| Activity in the field | Very quiet, few people around | Quiet, the occasional walker at landing |
| After the flight | The whole day still ahead of you | Flows straight into an evening out |
Which moment suits your occasion?
- A marriage proposal: both moments work well, so choose based on your own daily rhythm
- A birthday gift for a morning person: sunrise; for a lover of long evenings: sunset
- A corporate outing followed by dinner: sunset flows smoothly into an evening programme
- Photographers and early birds: sunrise gives the calmest, clearest light
Yes, you tell us your preference when booking. We take this into account as much as possible, though the final departure time still depends on the wind on the day itself.
That mostly comes down to taste. Sunrise gives clearer, quieter light; sunset gives warmer colours and a fuller feeling, since the day is already behind you. Both are equally spectacular from the basket.
Usually a little crisper than an evening flight, especially in spring and autumn. Dress in layers and you'll be comfortable either way.
Yes, every flight lasts at least 60 minutes, regardless of the departure time. Only the gathering time differs.
Pick your moment and book your balloon ride.
Curious exactly where we fly? Take a look at the full region overview.