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High altitude flight in a hot-air balloon: an extreme experience in Switzerland
Have you ever flown in a hot-air balloon and dreamed of going even higher?
What is a High altitude flight in a hot-air balloon?
A High altitude flight differs from a classic balloon flight in the altitude targeted, the equipment used and the preparation required. While a Discovery flight generally takes place between 500 and 2,000 meters, a High altitude flight can go up to around 5,000 meters, depending on the conditions of the day.
This type of flight is supervised by an experienced team, with a specialized pilot and a crew member on board. The equipment is specially adapted: balloon designed for high altitude, oxygen available, careful monitoring of weather conditions and safety at every stage.
Who is this type of Flight for?
This High altitude flight in a hot-air balloon is aimed at a special audience:
- Aeronautics or mountain enthusiasts looking for an extreme but supervised experience.
- People who have already completed a classic Flight and want to go “one step higher”.
- Lovers of wide open spaces, photography and unique panoramas of the Alps and Switzerland.
Due to the altitude and physical constraints, this Flight is not suitable for everyone. Certain medical conditions may be contraindicated. Before booking, we recommend that you consult our practical information and, if in doubt, ask your doctor for advice.
How does a High altitude flight work?
As with a traditional flight, the adventure begins early, often at dawn, to take advantage of optimal aerological conditions. The process is divided into several phases:
- Preparation and safety briefing
Meeting with the team, presentation of the flight, reminder of instructions, check of equipment and on-board oxygen system. - Inflation and take-off
The balloon is inflated, then gradually straightens out before a smooth take-off. The first few minutes feel like a normal flight… until the ascent continues well above normal altitudes. - Ascent to high altitude
As the climb progresses, the view widens, the terrain simplifies and the clouds become a carpet beneath the gondola. Above a certain altitude, oxygen is made available and used according to the crew’s instructions. - Cruising phase
This is the heart of the experience: a suspended moment when you fly over Switzerland at an altitude of several thousand meters, in almost total silence, punctuated only by the breath of the burners. - Descent and landing
The pilot then begins a gradual descent back to more conventional altitudes, before choosing a suitable landing zone. The ground team follows the balloon and joins the gondola on arrival.
Safety, weather and physical conditions
A High altitude flight in a hot-air balloon requires rigorous preparation. Flights are only made when the weather conditions are right, with a significant safety margin. The date often has to be adapted or postponed to guarantee the best possible conditions.
Passengers should be in good general condition. You need to be able to stand upright for the duration of the flight, be able to withstand the cold at altitude, and follow the oxygen instructions. Certain pathologies (cardiac, respiratory, etc.) may require prior medical advice. For more details on Flight accessibility, please consult our FAQ and practical information.
How to book a High altitude flight in a hot-air balloon?
This experience is offered in very limited numbers each year, and is subject to specific organization. To find out more about the conditions, prices, possible periods and booking procedures, go directly to the dedicated page: High altitude flight – Ballons du Léman.
Our team is at your disposal to check with you whether this type of flight corresponds to your profile and expectations, and to suggest, if necessary, a more suitable alternative among our other hot-air balloon flights in French-speaking Switzerland.
How to book a High altitude flight in a hot-air balloon?
A High altitude flight is a special kind of ballooning flight that aims to reach much higher altitudes than a conventional flight, up to almost 5,000 meters depending on conditions. It requires specially adapted equipment, an experienced crew and specific supervision.
The target altitude is generally between 5,000 and 6,000 metres, subject to the day’s weather and safety conditions. The final decision always rests with the pilot, who adapts the flight to the actual situation.
Yes, a good general condition is recommended. You need to be able to stand up, stand the cold and use oxygen if necessary. If you have any doubts or health problems, please seek medical advice before booking.
These flights are organized for limited periods, when weather and aerological conditions are favorable. Dates are planned on a case-by-case basis, with a large safety margin, and can be adjusted if weather conditions do not permit.
Reservations can be made directly via the High altitude flight page on our website. Our team will then contact you to check your profile, explain the steps involved and confirm the practical details of the flight.