Experience the most breathtaking views of the Yangshuo karst formations on an unforgettable hot air balloon ride

Enjoy the awe inspiring landscapes of Yangshuo from the sky, floating over paddy fields, watching farmers plough their fields with water buffalo and gaze into the distance as the sun rises or sinks across the magnificent scenery in front of you. This is most certainly an unforgettable and unique experience that is sure to be one of the highlights of your visit to China.

There are two types of flights available and both can be booked from the Yangshuo Mountain Retreat. The balloons fly either early in the morning to catch the sunrise approximately 5:30am or in the evening to watch the sunset (5:00pm). The price of the ticket includes pick-up and drop-off from/at the hotel.

1. Tethered flight
The hot air balloon is anchored to the ground by a rope and is let out slowly. You will float up gently and be able to watch the scenery transform as you ascend. This option is particularly favoured for those who are scared of the thought of flying up too high. Generally these flights last about 15 minutes and reach approximately 100 meters.

2. Free flight
The hot air balloon flies for about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on the thermals. The pilots are all experts and have many years experience piloting the balloons around the region. Be ready to skim the tops of the mandarin orchards, meander through karst peaks and soar high above the landscape reaching heights of 1500 meters on this memorable balloon ride.

Precautions
Though hot air ballooning is known as one of the safest sports in the sky, people with certain conditions should not take a flight. Please see the following:
- Heart Disease
- Epilepsy
- Pregnant women (more than 4 months)
- Drunken people
- Bad physical and psychological condition

For more great hot air balloon pictures go to
http://www.flickr.com/photos/yangshuomountainretreat/sets/72157603689762003/