Hot air balloon flight over the Sicilian Calanchi

The Calanchi desert is one of Sicily's natural wonders: an expanse of arid hills that look like the ideal setting for a western film. Flying in a hot-air balloon over this landscape is something truly unique!

During the hour-long flight, you can fly over the Calanchi del Cannizzola area and, depending on wind conditions, some delightful inland villages such as Paternò, Grammichele and Centuripe.

After landing, you can enjoy a little refreshment prepared for you and toast to the beauty of this experience.

What we will do

We will meet at the designated take-off site, near Centuripe (EN). The meeting will be early in the morning to take advantage of the best thermal conditions of the day. If you would like to watch the balloon being inflated and take some photos before departure, we advise you to arrive early.

Once everything is ready, we will have a short briefing where we will receive the necessary information for the flight, then we will board the wicker basket. Accompanying us on our 'aerial walk' will be an experienced pilot, who will ensure that the flight is safe and unforgettable.

Did you know that every balloon flight is unique and unrepeatable? This is because it is the wind that decides the route of the journey and determines the landscapes that we will be able to admire from above. Taking off over the Calanchi del Cannizzola, we will be able to enjoy this surreal landscape of arid, barren hills shaped by the weather.

The desert will then give way to delightful villages with incredible geometries: such as Grammichele, a hexagonal-shaped town in the province of Catania, or Centuripe, the star-shaped town. Flying over the province of Catania, we could also sight Paternò, but above allMount Etna: an infinite thrill!

After about an hour's flight, it will be time to prepare forlanding. The staff will have already prepared a breakfast for us on site, to be enjoyed in company after the experience.

Finally, we will be driven back to the starting point in a pick-up truck. The total duration of the experience, including briefing, balloon flight, various transfers and refreshments, will be about 3 hours.

Who it is aimed at

Hot air ballooning is a suitable activity for anyone over 130 cm tall and weighing a maximum of 130 kg. If you exceed 95 kg, there is a surcharge of €40.

For safety reasons, pregnant women, persons with reduced mobility or injuries that prevent them from independently climbing into the wicker basket; persons with heart problems and persons who have been diving in the 24 hours preceding the flight or who have recently undergone invasive surgery are not allowed to fly.

Other information

The flight takes place from May to July and in September and October, depending on weather conditions. The landscapes that can be seen during the flight may vary, as the direction of the balloon trip depends on which way the wind is blowing.

Important: the take-off time may vary depending on the period chosen. The day before the activity, you will receive confirmation from the pilot of the exact time and location.

Breakfast includes sweet and savoury food, such as yoghurt and cappuccino, as well as typical local products. Any allergies and intolerances must be reported to the organiser in advance (you will receive contact details by e-mail with your booking confirmation).

Small items such as smartphones and small video cameras are allowed on board.

Animals are not allowed on board the hot-air balloon.

Recommended clothing

• Comfortable clothing
• Low shoes

Don't forget to bring

• Cap
• Water bottle
• Camera