Bill Harrop's "Original" Balloon Safaris

Bill Harrop's "Original" Balloon Safaris is a hot air balloon operator in South Africa. It flies sunrise balloon safaris over the Magalies River Valley near Hartbeespoort. The site says the operator has been trusted since 1981. It celebrates 45 years of ballooning. The site says the company combines aviation discipline with a sense of occasion.

The site describes the company as Southern Africa's longest established licensed balloon airline. It was started by Bill and Mary Harrop. Mary handled sales and reservations. The site describes her as the steady hand behind each flight. Bill was a balloonist and aviation professional who was known for hospitality.

A typical flight lasts about one hour. Guests get pre flight tea or coffee. After landing, guests receive a sparkling wine toast. A buffet breakfast follows at the Clubhouse Pavilion. Each guest also gets a personalised Certificate of Bravery.

The company flies from a private launch site. The site says each flight is planned around weather conditions. Licensed pilots and an experienced ground crew support every flight. The site says the private launch site and Clubhouse Pavilion make the day easy for guests. The launch site sits in a river valley with farmland and bushveld.

The site sells gift vouchers. Vouchers suit birthdays, anniversaries, weddings and retirements, according to the site. These vouchers are valid for 12 months from the date of issue. The site says advance booking of the preferred date is essential. Private flights for groups of four are also offered.

The site says the company flies daily, weather permitting. Reservations are handled by phone at +27 83 457 3402. The reservations office is open from 8 AM to 5 PM every day. The site also lists a WhatsApp line for office hours. The site describes Bill as an extrovert who drew people into the story.