FAQ Everything You Need to Know Before Your Hot Air Balloon Adventure

• You’ll typically meet at a designated launch site, which will be provided by our flight coordinator the day before your flight.
• The meeting time varies depending on the sunrise or sunset schedule, but it’s usually around 5:30 – 7:00  in the morning or 18:00 – 19:00 in the evening.
• We will provide you with the exact meeting time and location details in advance of your scheduled flight. It’s important to arrive on time to ensure a smooth and timely take-off.

• A hot air balloon flight usually lasts from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on weather conditions. 
• The entire experience, including pre-flight setup and post-flight celebrations, can take several hours.

A group flight includes other guests (up to 6–8 people), ideal for social experiences or those on a budget. A private flight is exclusively for you and your guest(s)—perfect for romantic getaways, engagements, or VIP experiences. Both offer identical views and flight times.

Yes, you can typically bring your camera or smartphone on the flight. Just be sure to secure your devices during the flight to prevent any accidental drops.

• Safety is a top priority, and flights may be canceled or rescheduled due to adverse weather conditions like strong or soft winds, storms, rain, or fog.
• We will work with you to find a suitable alternative date and time for your flight.
• Typically, meteorological conditions are forecast and checked in advance, but they are sometimes inaccurate or incomplete.
• Therefore, even on arrival at the starting point, cancellation is still possible in order not to compromise safety.

Dress comfortably for the weather and wear layers, as temperatures may change during the flight.

• Light jacket or sweater is often recommended.
• In the morning, the grass is usually wet, closed-toe shoes are advisable.
• In the evenings, mosquitoes can be trouble at the landing site, so it is a good idea to wear a long-sleeved shirt.
• Hat and sunglasses for sun protection.

While hot air balloon rides are generally considered safe, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant. They can provide guidance based on your specific circumstances and advise whether a hot air balloon flight is a suitable activity during pregnancy. Your safety and comfort are the top priorities. Passengers must inform the pilot of any health problems or pregnancy.

Hot air balloons work on the principle that hot air is lighter than cold air. The balloon envelope is filled with heated air, which makes it buoyant. As the air inside the envelope heats up, it becomes less dense than the surrounding, cooler air, causing the balloon to rise. The pilot can control the ascent and descent by adjusting the temperature of the air inside the balloon, making hot air balloons a fascinating and simple yet effective mode of air travel

Before the flight, you’ll typically meet your pilot and crew at the launch site.

They’ll provide a safety briefing and may involve you in the inflation process, giving you a chance to see how the balloon is prepared for flight.

Yes, hot air balloon rides are generally safe.

Professional pilots undergo rigorous training and are certified, and the balloons are well-maintained. Safety measures include pre-flight safety briefings, regular equipment checks before each flight, and recertification by the Air Navigation Authority at least every 100 hours of flight or 12 months. Additionally, adherence to weather conditions is crucial for safe flying. 

Our safety record is spotless, with hundreds of successful flights each year.

• We have a minimum age requirement, it’s 5 years old.
• Depending on air conditions and the total weight of all passengers, there may be a restriction for individuals weighing over 100 kg. If you are flying with other passengers, please make sure to provide the total weight of all passengers, including yourself, when making your booking. Our flight coordinator will then be able to clarify availability for you.

It’s crucial to be aware that the use of strong alcoholic drinks, drugs, and psychotropic substances is strictly prohibited throughout the pre-flight and in-flight phases of a hot air balloon ride. This policy is in place to ensure the safety of all passengers and to maintain a responsible and controlled environment during the entire balloon experience. Safety is paramount, so please adhere to these restrictions.

The best time to fly is a hour after sunrise or one hours before sunset, when the wind is calm and the views are most stunning. Flights are available all year round, with peak visibility and weather conditions typically from May to October.

You can book online 24/7. Choose your preferred flight type, date, and location. After booking, we confirm the flight by phone 1–2 days in advance (depending on the weather).
If weather conditions are unsafe, your flight is rescheduled free of charge. We also offer gift vouchers, which are valid for 12 months.

Some of the most breathtaking views in Lithuania can be seen from a hot air balloon over Trakai, with its famous island castle and lakes, and Vilnius, the capital city known for its red rooftops and Old Town charm.

These two locations offer stunning scenic landscapes and historical landmarks that are truly breathtaking from above.

You can easily book a hot air balloon ride in Lithuania through Smile Balloons, one of the top-rated companies in the country.

Their website offers online booking, gift vouchers, and details about various flight options across Lithuania’s most scenic locations.

In Vilnius, Smile Balloons is among the top hot air balloon companies, renowned for its excellent safety record, experienced pilots, and numerous successful flights each season.

The company offers both group and private flights and has a perfect safety record. Flights over Vilnius Old Town and nearby landscapes are popular with both locals and tourists.