Egypt Unveils New Tethered Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Giza Pyramids Amid Conservation Debates

Visitors to the Giza Plateau will soon catch a bird’s-eye view of the ancient world’s last surviving wonder, courtesy of a new tethered hot air balloon attraction. Announced by Egyptian tourism authorities, the high-flying entertainment concept—the first to land near the iconic monuments—promises panoramic vistas from 150 meters up.

The proposal, however, has reignited a fierce conversation among conservationists about visual pollution and ecological balance near world heritage sites. In response to growing public scrutiny, Tourism Minister Sherif Fathy visited the site on Sunday to audit safety preparations before the attraction begins test runs. Officials insist the 15-minute aerial experience will blend entertainment with education, delivering historical commentary to passengers floating above the desert floor.

Addressing concerns over the site’s historical integrity, the developer emphasized that the infrastructure was engineered to leave no footprint on ancient soil. Built entirely out of modular, light-gauge components anchored above ground, the setup avoids sub-surface digging and concrete work. Located more than two kilometers clear of both the Pyramids and the Sphinx, the vertically tethered system aims to offer modern thrills without compromising the ancient skyline.