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Your adventure begins

Enjoy a cup of coffee with your bush wake up call. Guided Safaris® rangers transfer you to the launch site and after a briefing with the pilots, some of the most reputable balloon safari operators in Africa, the crew inflate the craft for flight.

Magic lantern

The Magic Lantern is an image projector using pictures on sheets of glass. Since some sheets contain moving parts, it is considered the first example of projected animation.

Thaumatrope

The thaumatrope housed a rotating mechanism with a different picture on each side. When rotated, you saw a combined picture (known as persistence of vision).

Phenakitoscope

The phenakitoscope featured spinning disks reflected in mirrors that made it seem like the pictures were moving.

The zoetrope was a hollow drum that housed images on long interchangeable strips that spin and made the images appear to move.

The flip-book, also known as the kineograph, reached a wide audience and is credited with inspiring early animators more than the machines developed in this era.

Movieola/praxinoscope

The praxinoscope expanded on the zoetrope, using multiple wheels to rotate images. It is considered to have shown the first prototypes of the animated cartoon.

The Magic Lantern is an image projector using pictures on sheets of glass.

Ballooning over the Masai mara

Our Signature location for hot air ballooning, the Masai Mara scenery seen from the vantage of a balloon is one of the most quintessentially African experiences. During the course of the Great Migration season, the experience of seeing the wildebeest and zebra herds spread over the plains and the interactions occurring at the crocodile-rich rivers below is truly memorable on safari.

Drift over the Dunes

This seasonal hot air balloon safari in the desert is only offered in the cooler months of Namibia. See the towering red dunes of the Namib desert offering stark contrasts and spectacular scenery for aerial photography.

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Balloon Safari

Enjoy unbelievable views shared only by the birds that soar over the Safari Park's grounds! Modeled after the hot air balloon tours of the Serengeti, the Balloon Safari tethered helium balloon rises silently 400 feet. Spend 10 to 12 minutes in the sky over the Safari Park.

The best time to fly is 9 a.m. to noon; approximate hours are 9 a.m. to dusk. Prices vary, depending on peak times and days; please inquire when at the Park. Due to social distancing, capacity may be limited.

Please note: Balloon Safari is subject to closure during inclement weather.

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Balloon Safari

Safari tours itineraries - balloon safari.

Itineraries can be customised to match your budget and travel dates

$ 570 pp (USD)

The 3 Days Maasai Mara Safari in Kenya

$ 1,410 pp (USD)

4 Days Tanzania Lodge Safari to Tarangire, Serengeti and Ngorongoro

$ 1,830 pp (USD)

5 Day Tanzania Lodge Safari Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro , and Lake Manyara

$ 2,200 pp (USD)

6 Day Tanzania Lodge Safari

$ 2324 pp (USD)

7 Day Tanzania Lodge Safari

$ 3126 pp (USD)

8 Day Tanzania Lodge Safari

$ 3000 pp (USD)

8 Days Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Mara River Crossing

$ 3900 pp (USD)

13 Days Ultimate Kilimanjaro Treks and Tanzania Safari

$ 3200 pp (USD)

8 Days Kilimanjaro Trek With Serengeti Safari

$ 957 pp (USD)

3 Days Serengeti Wildebeest Migration Tanzania Safari

$ 2,090 pp (USD)

5 Days Tanzania Safari Serengeti Wildebeest Migration

$ 250 pp (USD)

2 Days 1 Night Zanzibar Holiday Package

$ 485 pp (USD)

3 Days 2 Nights Zanzibar Holiday Package

$ 750 pp (USD)

4 Days 3 Nights Zanzibar Holiday Package

$ 800 pp (USD)

6 Days 5 Nights Zanzibar Holiday Package

$ 1270 pp (USD)

7 Days 6 Nights Zanzibar Holiday Package

$ 1700 pp (USD)

3 Days Fly-in Tanzania Safari to Serengeti and Ngorongoro

$ 4510 pp (USD)

12 Days Ultimate Tanzania Honeymoon Safari

$ 3125 pp (USD)

7 Days Unforgettable Tanzania Classic Safaris

$ 11978 pp (USD)

11 Days Fly-in Luxury Tanzania Couple Safari

$ 7978 pp (USD)

7 Days Fly-in Luxury Tanzania Couple Safari

$ 2544 pp (USD)

4 Days Fly in Tanzania Safari to Serengeti National Park

$ 4200 pp (USD)

14 Days Tanzania Safaris and Zanzibar Beach

$ 4500 pp (USD)

15 Days Tanzania Safaris and Zanzibar Holiday

$ 3300 pp (USD)

11 Days Tanzania Safaris and Zanzibar Holiday

10 Days Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Holiday

$ 3600 pp (USD)

12 Days Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Holiday

13 Days Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Holiday

$ 12870 pp (USD)

12-Days Tanzania Luxury Safari

$ 23100 pp (USD)

19-Day Tanzania Luxury Safari

$ 5830 pp (USD)

9 Days Tanzania Luxury Safari

$ 10230 pp (USD)

12-Day Tanzania Luxury Safari And Zanzibar Holiday

$ 2,772 pp (USD)

9-Day South Africa - East Coast Safari & Beach Adventure

$ 1,100 pp (USD)

5-Day Magical Choices to L Naivasha/L Nakuru/Masai Mara

$ 660 pp (USD)

4-Day On a Safari to Tsavo West, Amboseli and Tsavo East

$ 2,721 pp (USD)

7-Day Southern Adventure - Namibia

$ 2,515 pp (USD)

11-Day Best of Northern Parks (Budget) & Zanzibar

$ 2120 pp (USD)

$ 5500 pp (USD)

15 Days Classic Tanzania Safari & Zanzibar Beach

12 Days Kenya and Tanzania Safaris

$ 4100 pp (USD)

10 Days Tanzania and Kenya Safaris

$ 3175 pp (USD)

9 Days Tanzania Safari Beach Holiday to Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Zanzibar

$ 3475 pp (USD)

10 Days Tanzania Safari Beach Holiday to Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro & Zanzibar

A balloon safari is a unique way to experience wildlife and the beauty of the African savannah. It involves taking a hot air balloon ride over the vast plains of Tanzania, allowing you to see wildlife from a different perspective and capture stunning aerial views of the landscape.

During a balloon safari, y ou'll typically wake up early in the morning and be driven to the launch site where the balloon will be inflated. As you ascend into the sky, you'll get a bird's eye view of the animals below, including herds of wildebeest , giraffes, and elephants. The silence of the balloon ride allows for a peaceful and serene experience, perfect for taking in the beauty of the landscape.

After about an hour of flying, the balloon will land and you'll enjoy a champagne breakfast in the middle of the bush, complete with stunning views and the chance to spot even more wildlife. A balloon safari is a truly unforgettable experience and is perfect for those looking to add a touch of adventure to their Tanzania safari.

SERENGETI BALLOON SAFARI

Explore Other Safaris

WALKING SAFARI

FULL-DAY GAME DRIVE

CONNECTED SOULS PHOTO TOUR

SUNSET KOPJE MEDITATION

What your balloon safari experience entails

Picture this – as you climb into the basket, the breeze gently starts to lift you up, the sun just starts to rise and you can feel it’s warmth on your face, cutting through the crisp clean air of Amboseli.

You continue to ascend and slowly start to drift over the open wood savannah grasslands peppered with Acacia tortilis ( Vachellia tortilis ) trees through which a vast array of wild and majestic animals criss-cross.

Across the vista, you see one side of the park crowned by the magical Mt. Kilimanjaro, the world’s highest free standing mountain. And on the other side, the view is of lush green wetlands, open savannah grassland and Lake Amboseli.

You continue to float over pristine wilderness until the time comes to descend and land, and you are whisked away for a delectable champagne breakfast – a perfect way to end an unforgettable day.

Step 1 – Arrival

CAMP/LODGE PICK-UP

The pick-up time for your balloon safari varies depending on the Camp or Lodge you are staying at, and the time of the year. All pick-ups are scheduled to ensure that our Guests arrive at the Balloon Camp, at approximately 5:15am. Depending on the timing and distance from your Camp or Lodge, pick-ups may begin as early as 4:15am, to ensure a smooth and well-planned flight.

Pick-ups/drop-offs are available at the following camps:

AA Lodge Amboseli, Amboseli Bush Camp, Amboseli Sopa Lodge, Elephant Garden Camp, Elephant Gorge Camp, Kibo Safari Camp, Kilima Safari Camp Amboseli, Kili Springs, Kimana Public Campsite, KWS Campsite, KWS Guesthouse, Ol Tukai Lodge Amboseli, Porini Amboseli Camp, Satao Elerai Camp, Sentrim Amboseli Lodge, Serena Safari Lodge, Tawi Lodge, Tortilis Camp, Zebra Plains Amboseli Camp.

*Feel free to contact us to inquire about any other camps/lodges.

BALLOON CAMP CHECK-IN

Upon arrival at our Balloon Camp, passengers will be required to observe KCAA Approved and Established COVID-19 protocols, including temperature checks, masks, hand sanitizer and social distancing. You will visit and Check-in at our Reception Desk to complete Passenger Information Waivers, and then join the others in our Guest Pavilion, complete with morning beverages (coffee, teas or hot chocolate) and fresh biscuits. Female and Male Toilets are available, and Wi-Fi and USB chargers are available to all guests in the Guest Pavilion.

Step 2 – Preparation

PRE-FLIGHT SAFETY BRIEFING

Once at the Launch Field, you will join a Pre-flight Safety Briefing with the Captain of your Hot Air Balloon. During this briefing, you will learn how the hot air balloon works, safety features, what to expect during your flight and also your Captain will answer any questions you may have.

Watch in awe as the high-powered burners add heat to the balloon and it inflates and rises to over 25m in height! Take advantage of once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunities with Mt. Kilimanjaro and spectacular sunrises as our backdrop!

A once in a lifetime experience

Step 3 – The Flight

Once all passengers climb into the gondola and partake in another short safety briefing, the Captain will add more heat to the balloon, and it will gracefully rise into the magical skies of the Amboseli. Time for your amazing adventure in a hot air balloon!

Once we are In-flight, you will experience a spectacular 360° view of:

• The earth coming alive, as the sun rises to the East,
• The many variations of the Amboseli ecosystem,
• Kilimanjaro to the South,
• Amboseli National Park to the North,
• Plentiful wildlife Kenya is famous for throughout the area,
• The local Maasai Manyattas and Bomas in the area,
• Remember to bring your camaras and/or binoculars! Flights generally last about 1-hour, but actual flight time can vary from 45-minutes to 1 ½ hours, depending on the weather of the day, and the conditions ‘Mother Nature’ has provided us.

NOTE: We can not guarantee a flight length, or direction, or what animals/game are seen on a given day – we are “one with nature” and every day is different, fresh and changes in the wind direction can occur.

Step 4 – Landing

After we return to Mother Earth, our Chase Crew will have followed us on the ground and will be there to meet and greet us.

GAME DRIVE BACK

Our custom Safari vehicles will transport all guests back to the Balloon Camp, while taking in a Game drive and experiencing the local communities and points of interest.

Step 5 – Celebrate with a meal

TRADITIONAL CHAMPAGNE CELEBRATION

The Chief Pilot will begin the Celebration with stories, the Balloonists Prayer and Traditional Champagne Toast. For guests that do not drink alcohol or are younger, we always have optional beverages available to join in the Celebration.

CHEF-PREPARED MADE TO ORDER BREAKFAST

Enjoy a Chef prepared ‘made to order’ full hot breakfast, inclusive of fresh fruits, cereals, yoghurt, coffee, a selection of teas, hot chocolate, and juices.

Dietary limitations will be accommodated, with advance notice.

COMMEMORATIVE FLIGHT ASCENSION CERTIFICATE

After breakfast and reminiscing about the mornings Magical flight, all guests are presented with a Commemorative Flight Ascension Certificate, signed by their Captain, as a memento of their Kilimanjaro Balloon Safari experience.

Come join us for an exhilarating experience…

Preview the beauty.

kilimanjaro_balloon_safaris

What Our Guests Say

This was a dream of mine and I will be forever changed! It was the greatest thing I have ever done and I will be eternally grateful for the opportunity. I can’t believe how peaceful and calm it was and the views were out of this world!

Such wonderful memories made today for our family! The views of Kilimanjaro were beyond spectacular and seeing the elephants making their way toward the park swamps was incredible! A true Bucket List Adventure!

1st - Safety was a main concern for them, more than any other balloon ride I've been on. 2nd - The breakfast was great! 3rd - Very eco-friendly lodge (check out the charcoal fridge - impressive) 4th - The ride and views were too notch!!!!

- DocMartens (TripAdvisor)

We recently were lucky enough to experience a hot air balloon flight over Amboseli National Park with Kilimanjaro Balloon Safaris. It was the most amazing experience imaginable. When we popped up through the clouds at 8000 feet to be greeted with the sun rising in a perfect orb adjacent to mount Kilimanjaro it exceeded all of our expectations. Captain Casey did an amazing, professional job and guided us through the entire experience in a very friendly and safety conscious manner. Would we do it again? You bet, it is a real bucket list trip and one you will remember for a lifetime.

- GraemeCandy (TripAdvisor)

We would like to thank everyone involved with our great hot air balloon experience, including champagne breakfast. Amazing experience and crew. It was very organised and we were in the basket ready for take off very quickly. We will never forget the sunrise from the balloon with white Kibo in the background. A lot of adrenaline, we are thankful for such special experience. Special thanks to our captain for friendliness, professionality and good humored and obviously passionate about what he does. The breakfast was delicious, and the ambient was spectacular. Wonderful views and fantastic staff made it an absolute pleasure. We would highly recommend to everybody.

- Ivona & Josip Dubrovnik

• Hot Air Balloon Safaris

discover more about balloon safaris across Africa

Certainly not for the budget-conscious traveller, hot air  balloon safaris are an expensive way to see the African wilderness, but provide unrivaled views and an experience you’ll never forget. There are a number of companies in East and Southern Africa offering balloon safaris – particularly around the flat heavily touristed areas of the Masai Mara and Serengeti plains – and it can make a truly exhilarating add on to any land-based safari. Balloon safaris are easily incorporated into any existing safari itinerary which includes at least one night at a national park or reserve where they’re offered, and just as easy to arrange if you’re an independent traveler as transfers fro your lodge to and from the launch and landing site are generally included. The price for a balloon safari depends on location, time of year and company you book with, but expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $500 per person.

Balloon safaris begin with a pre-dawn wake-up call and quick, light breakfast at your safari lodge or tented camp. You’ll then be picked up and transferred to the balloon launch site for between 6 am and 6.30 am. Balloon flights typically leave around or just before sunrise, as this is the best time of day for ballooning conditions. Later in the day as the sun the land thermals and wind generally get stronger, making for a bumpier ride. An early start also gives you the best chance of seeing African wildlife in action. As with any safari, game viewing can’t be guaranteed, but with an experienced captain and guide on hand to spot the game below, you’ll have a very good chance of seeing a variety of wildlife from a whole new perspective.

Once airborne, the balloon is blown by prevailing winds across the landscape. Aside from the occasional blast of the burners, the flights are magically silent and peaceful. The pilot controls the height of the balloon – generally between 500 and 1,000 meters – and will descend for a close-up view of any wildlife spotted. On landing, you’ll generally be offered a brunch and drink whilst waiting for the vehicle for your return transfer – a game drive with the possibility of seeing the same herds of wildlife or dozing lions you spotted from the air. By 9.30 am you’re back at your safari lodge or tent ready to relax or take a nap before lunch.

A hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti

Best Places in Africa for a hot air balloon safari

As hot air balloons are at the mercy of the wind and can travel a great distance in the hour they’re in the air, for a specific combination of climate and habitat is required. Savannas and deserts make ideal locations for balloon safaris, the lack of foliage allowing for optimal wildlife viewing opportunities. The best places for balloon safaris in Africa are:

East Africa

• Well developed for tourists, the great plains area of East Africa ( Masai Mara National Park in Kenya and Serengeti National Park in Tanzania ) provide a wide choice of balloon safari operators and some classic safari scenery and wildlife. This area, in particular, gives the opportunity of seeing one of nature’s greatest sights from the air – the great wildebeest migration, along with accompanying gazelles, zebras, lions  and hyenas. There’s even a slim chance of spotting the big five in an hour from the air!
• Elsewhere in East Africa the giant Selous Game Reserve and Lake Manyara National Park – both in Tanzania – have a choice of balloon safari operators, along with spectacular landscapes to take in.

Southern Africa Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zambia each provide their own unique environment for balloon safaris:

• The wetlands of Botswana’s Okavango Delta are green year-round, and a haven for wildlife and bird-life. Balloon safaris here can be arranged from the tourist capital Maun, or through your lodge.
• Taking a balloon ride over the Namib Naukluft desert of Namibia you can see the towering sand dunes of Sossusvlei stretching hundreds of miles and up to 300 meters high. Alongside the scenery, there’s plenty of wildlife clustered together around water sources, with the chance of spotting the famous Namib Desert elephants.
• Zambia’s Kafue National Park contain the vast Busunga Plains, home to huge herds of grazers, plenty of large predators… and jaw-dropping scenery.
• If you fancy a break from or extension to your safari time,   Cape Town in South Africa has a range of hot air balloon rides over the Cape Winelands area . This gives a birds-eye view of the beautiful wine growing regions, with vineyards as far as the eye can see.

Tips for taking a balloon safari

• During peak season it’s advisable to try and book your balloon safari at least 2 weeks in advance.
• Shop around before you book – if you’re arranging your trip independently you’ll find that some balloon safaris are packaged with accommodation.
• It will be cold in the early morning and high in the air, so wear layered clothes – you can then remove or add as required.
• Sandals and open-toed footwear are not recommended as you will be doing at least some walking to and from the balloon. A comfortable pair of sneakers is recommended.
• Keep an eye out for any game you’re most interested in viewing, and if you spy it ask your driver/guide to take you via there on the way back to your hotel.
• Check what’s included with the company running the balloon safari. Transfers to and from your lodge, and some sort of brunch after touching down are fairly standard.
• As always, the more pictures you take the higher the chance of snapping the “perfect” picture.
• Aerial photography can lead to blurring or vibration effects, so  use a fasr shutter speed, enable any auto-image stabilization your camera has and/or increase your camera’s ISO.

Balloon safari resources

• Sun Fun Africa Safaris , offering hot air balloon safaris over the Pilanesberg National Park in South Africa.
• Bill Harrop’s “Original” Balloon Safaris in South Africa.
• Namib Sky , specializing in balloon safaris across Namibia. Can also help out with Botswana balloon safaris.
• Serengeti Balloon Safaris , across the Serengeti National Park, Kenya.
• Mara Ballooning , across the Masai Mara National Park, Kenya.

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Safari basics.

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Africa’s best game reserves

• Chobe National Park, Botswana
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• Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana
• Okavango Delta, Botswana
• Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

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Lemala Camps P.O.Box 14529, Arusha. Tanzania.

• Tel: +255 (0)682 933933
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• Tel: +256 (0)772 237400
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Balloon Safari

The iconic African experience

A Hot Air Balloon safari offers an opportunity to see the Serengeti from a unique perspective. Drink in the wilderness below as you silently float over the vast plains, in whichever direction the wind takes you. Follow a large herd of wildebeest, see a lion stalk its prey, or just marvel at the magnificent scenery before touching down for a bush breakfast like no other. If you only take one balloon flight in your life, this is the place to do it.

Need to Know

• Balloon rides are available in both the Serengeti and Tarangire
• The balloon companies we work with brief guests the night before their ‘float’. They collect guests early the following morning in order to take off just as the sun rises above the horizon and end with a hearty breakfast out on the plains.
• From USD 600 per person.
• Prices are subject to change

Ready to embark on your next adventure?

Hot Air Ballooning Tours & Safaris

Apr 24, 2024

Kim helped us for the details of trip…

Kim helped us for the details of trip planning.

Apr 23, 2024

Shann was amazing

Shann was amazing , great prompt service and went above and beyond to meet our travel requirements.

Apr 22, 2024

My experience with safari.com is always…

My experience with safari.com is always incredibly, pascal made happen my dream again. He is the best always answering questions and making everything perfect.thank you again pascal, can’t wait to tell all about my second trip to Africa in October.

Thank you Heleen Coetzee for your excellent service!

Thank you Heleen Coetzee for your excellent service. We have booked through her at Kruger park numerous times. She is very helpful and quick to assist.

Apr 21, 2024

Fantastic travel agent for African safari family trip!

Wow! Shann was and is fantastic! She figured out a way to make our entire trip work. We are going on a 2 week trip to South Africa and Botswana. She really helped tie it all together as a wonderful, cohesive trip. She is super nice and super smart and very knowledgeable. She is also flexible and thoughtful, etc., etc. When the chips were down (and we literally were considering pulling the plug on the whole trip), she found a way to make the entire itinerary work and got us excited about our wonderful adventure! Highly recommend!

Apr 20, 2024

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We were looking for a Safari. Anja from Safari.com supported us to book accommodation and flights, she was very polite, super fast and very supportive. We can recommend her and Safari.com, it was great to book there.

The customer service was top-notch!

I was really impressed with the level of service I received from Heleen Coetzee. I had a great experience with the customer service team at this company. They were very responsive and helpful, and they were able to resolve my issue quickly. I would definitely recommend this company to others.

Excellent news information and service…

Excellent news information and service from Sara. She made it a smooth experience booking a safari.

Apr 17, 2024

Great experience!

Leigh-Ann was very helpful, responsive and knowledgeable about our safari options. Handled our safari booking, transfers and even hotel in Cape Town for us! We’re excited for our trip - Thank you :)

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• May 17, 2023

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Table of contents, introduction, balloon safari.

Experience the thrill of soaring high above the African savannah , taking in the breathtaking views of wildlife and landscapes from a unique perspective. Balloon safaris have become a popular way to explore the wild, providing an eco-friendly alternative to traditional game drives. As the demand for sustainable tourism grows, more and more travelers are seeking out experiences that minimize their impact on the environment. Balloon safaris offer just that, as they have a minimal environmental impact, leaving no trace behind. Not only are these safaris eco-friendly, but they also offer an unforgettable experience that is both serene and exhilarating. Imagine floating effortlessly over herds of elephants and giraffes, watching as the sun rises or sets over the vast African plains. If you’re looking for an adventure that combines luxury, excitement, and sustainability, then a balloon safari is the perfect choice for you.

The Benefits of Balloon Safaris for Wildlife Conservation

Balloon safaris have become a popular alternative to traditional game drives, as they offer a minimal environmental impact. Unlike traditional game drives that can disturb wildlife, balloon safaris allow you to observe animals in their natural habitat without disturbing their behavior. This is because balloons are silent and do not emit any pollution, making them the perfect way to experience the beauty of Africa without causing any harm.

Moreover, balloon safaris support wildlife conservation efforts in Africa. Many of the companies that offer balloon safaris are involved in conservation initiatives, such as supporting anti-poaching efforts and wildlife research. By participating in a balloon safari, you are not only supporting sustainable tourism but also contributing to the conservation of Africa’s unique wildlife.

The History of Balloon Safaris

The history of balloon safaris can be traced back to the 18th century when the Montgolfier brothers invented the hot air balloon. However, it wasn’t until the 1960s that balloon safaris became popular for tourism in Africa. The first commercial balloon safari company was established in Kenya in the 1970s, and since then, balloon safaris have become a popular activity for travelers visiting Africa.

The Best Destinations for Balloon Safaris

Balloon safaris are available in many destinations across Africa, but some locations stand out for their incredible scenery and wildlife. The Masai Mara in Kenya is one of the most popular destinations for balloon safaris, as it offers stunning views of the wildebeest migration and the Big Five. The Serengeti in Tanzania is another popular destination, offering unforgettable views of the rolling plains and abundant wildlife. Other destinations for balloon safaris include the Okavango Delta in Botswana, Namibia’s Sossusvlei, and South Africa’s Kruger National Park.

What to Expect During a Balloon Safari

A typical balloon safari begins early in the morning, before sunrise. You will be picked up from your lodge or camp and driven to the launch site, where you will meet your pilot and crew. After a safety briefing, you will board the balloon and take off into the sky. The flight lasts approximately one hour, during which you will have the chance to see wildlife from a unique perspective.

After the flight, you will land and be greeted with a champagne breakfast in the bush. This is a great opportunity to reflect on your experience and chat with fellow travelers. After breakfast, you will be driven back to your lodge or camp, with plenty of time left in the day for other activities or relaxation.

Balloon Safari Safety Tips

Balloon safaris are generally very safe, but it’s important to follow some basic safety tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Firstly, make sure you listen carefully to the safety briefing before the flight. Secondly, wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes, and avoid loose items that could fall out of the basket during the flight. Finally, make sure you have adequate travel insurance that covers hot air balloon flights.

Eco-Friendly Practices in Balloon Safaris

As mentioned earlier, balloon safaris have a minimal environmental impact, making them an eco-friendly way to explore the African wilderness. However, there are some additional practices that companies can adopt to further reduce their impact on the environment. These include using biodegradable or reusable materials for breakfast and avoiding balloon flights during breeding seasons for birds.

The Best Time of Year for Balloon Safaris

The best time of year for balloon safaris varies depending on the destination. In East Africa, the best time for balloon safaris is during the dry season, from June to October. This is when the wildebeest migration is in full swing, and the weather is dry and sunny. In Southern Africa, the best time for balloon safaris is during the winter months, from June to August, when the weather is cooler and the vegetation is less dense.

Balloon Safari Packages and Prices

Balloon safari packages vary depending on the destination and the company. Generally, packages include the balloon flight, breakfast, and transportation to and from your lodge or camp. Prices also vary depending on the destination and the time of year. A typical balloon safari in Kenya or Tanzania can cost anywhere from $400 to $600 per person, while a balloon safari in South Africa can cost up to $1000 per person.

FAQ about Balloon Safaris

Q: Is it safe to fly in a hot air balloon?

A: Yes, hot air balloons are generally very safe. The pilots and crew are experienced professionals who prioritize safety at all times.

Q: What should I wear on a balloon safari?

A: Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes. Avoid wearing loose items that could fall out of the basket during the flight.

Q: What is included in a balloon safari package?

A: Typically, a balloon safari package includes the balloon flight, breakfast, and transportation to and from your lodge or camp.

Balloon safaris offer a unique and eco-friendly way to explore the African savannah, providing breathtaking views of wildlife and landscapes from a different perspective. They also support wildlife conservation efforts in Africa, making them a sustainable and responsible way to experience the beauty of the continent. If you’re looking for an adventure that combines luxury, excitement, and sustainability, then a balloon safari is the perfect choice for you!

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Shiri Adventures is a local operated company offering trekking & Safaris throughout East Africa. For us, adventure is more than our passion, it’s our purpose.

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Hot-air balloon safari

Experience the Masai Mara on a different level.

Flying high up in the skies above the Masai Mara is the ultimate safari experience. The landscape below is a never-ending exciting mixture of riverine forests, sprawling savannahs, towering escarpments and rugged rivers. Against a backdrop of stunning sunrises, hot-air balloon flights in the Masai Mara give you a unique vantage point of the abundant wildlife living below. There’s really nothing quite like it, the view is unparalleled and the experience is unforgettable.

• The experience
• Great Migration from above

Flying high

There is really nothing quite like the feeling of freedom and exhilaration you get when flying high above the African plains. Sure, the idea of waking up at the crack of dawn during your vacation may sound less than pleasant. However the rewards of embarking on this high flying adventure greatly outweigh the inconvenience of setting your alarm clock for somewhere between 4.00 – 5.00 AM. As your guide takes you to the balloon launch pad, you'll begin to feel the anticipation grow. While you enjoy a steaming hot cup of coffee or tea, the balloon crew will inflate your balloon and prepare everything for take-off. Once the balloon is filled and you've climbed into the basket beneath it, your pilot will give you a short briefing before setting the balloon into motion. As the sun begins to rise in a stunning colour show of fiery reds and golds, your balloon will slowly rise to the skies.

Hot air ballooning & the Great Migration

If you decide to visit the Masai Mara between the months of July and October, you will have a chance cathing the ' Great Migration ' while flying above the African plains. There’s nothing quite like this phenomenon of migrating herds of wildebeest, zebras and gazelles. Flying above the herds in a hot air balloon is one of the best ways to grasp the enormity of what’s taking place. Other exciting sights to behold include watching predators such as lions hunting their prey, spotting leopards perched up high in trees and seeing active hyena dens. Every hot air balloon flight brings with it the opportunity to see new and exciting sights below. Your pilot will make sure to fly lower at times to allow for the best possible pictures to be taken.

Masai Mara hot-air balloon flight price

Hot-air balloon flights are quite pricey, especially in remote areas such as the Masai Mara. Hot air balloon ride prices start at US$ 450 per person. One of the reasons for this is the fact that balloons can only be used for a limited number of hours before they need replacing. After approximately 850 flight hours, balloons are retired and a new balloon must be purchased in order to guarantee the safety of those who board a balloon. What also makes hot air balloon flights expensive is the cost of fuel and crew to operate the hot air balloon. Crews are made up of six crew members and a licenced balloon pilot. An additional ten people behind the scenes (per balloon) are responsible for getting each hot air balloon airborne. In total, this adds up to quite a group of people whose livelihoods depend on the proceeds from hot air balloon flights. In addition to this, each hot air balloon flight requires recovery vehicles, transfer vehicles and back-up operations. To top this off, a large portion of the hot air balloon flight fees are made up of conservation fees.

Included in the price for a balloon safari are:

• Approximately one hour hot air balloon flight
• Transfer from your safari camp or lodge
• Champagne style bush breakfast
• Transfer back to camp after breakfast
• Conservancy or national reserve landing fees

Planning a Masai Mara balloon safari

We can arrange departures for a Masai Mara balloon safari from most lodges and camps in the Greater Mara area. We strongly recommend booking a balloon safari in advance, as it concerns a very popular activity and gets booked out early (especially during peak season). Please remember to bring some warm clothing, and a bag in which you can secure camera, binoculars, and other personal items.

What happens if the weather is poor?

So, what happens if the hot-air balloon flight is cancelled due to poor weather? Naturally, safety is top priority to the hot air ballooning crew, so if weather conditions aren’t favorable your flight may be cancelled. If this occurs, you will be scheduled for a later flight if possible. If this isn’t an option your money will be refunded.

Further reading

Masai Mara animal life

read about animals in Masai Mara

Landscape & vegetation

read about Plains & forests

Masai Mara conservation

read about preserving the Mara

From the pioneers of ballooning in the Masai Mara

“Discover the experience that will stir your soul…”

As the pioneers of hot air balloon safaris in the Masai Mara, Balloon Safaris Limited (Kenya) expertise and local knowledge is sought after and respected. Launched in 1976 by Alan Root from Keekerok Lodge we have been operating for more nearly 45 years in the Masai Mara.

Our team of international pilots have a combined experience of thousands of hours (the measure for expertise in piloting) flying hot air balloons commercially all over the world. Safety is at the heart of everything we do with British built ballooning equipment and annual rigorous safety checks by the Kenyan Civil Aviation Authority.

Magical Experience

Pioneers of Hot Air Ballooning in Kenya, knowledge of the Masai Mara, passion for ballooning and Africa

Annual inspection by KCAA Safety Processes Head of Safety

Experience the ultimate safari from above

A place unchanged by the passage of time, the Masai Mara is essential Africa. Everyone who travels here says that ‘Africa gets into your blood’. It’s so true! Rugged and dramatic, this is a wilderness of emotion, survival and inspiration; with wildlife drama unravelling before you at every turn. Often raw and sometimes violent, this wildlife theatre is there before your very eyes. There is nowhere else like it!

A Journey for the Soul

Where there are no boundaries, ultimate ballooning destination.

Recognised as one of Africa’s Greatest Wildlife Reserves , the Masai Mara National Game Reserve is bordered by the Serengeti National Park in the South, Siria Plateau and Oloololo Escarpment in the West.

The adventure – your destination

Five Male Cheetah

On the Burangat and Posse Plains in the South of the reserve five male Cheetah can often be seen (season 2019) hunting Thompson Gazelle and Impala. Cheetah cover enormous distances and this group of 5 can also be seen in the Ongata Ronkai depression area.

Lions of Mara

This lion cub was photographed crossing the Talek river. There are many prides in the Masai Mara but our flights frequently take us over the Ol Keju Ronkai river, the Mara near Lookout Hill and towards Olikiombo where prides or lone lion or lioness are regularly seen on our morning flights after a kill.

Wildebeest - Great Migration

Large crossings of Wildebeest can be seen on the Mara River, west of the Mara Bridge. During the migration herds of Wildebeest can be seen cross daily in large numbers below Look Out Hill – moving from the Trans Mara and into the southern Reserve converging into the Posse and Burangat plains.

Visitor Stories

“Every dawn is a different adventure” “Under the shade of a single balanite tree” “Big ideas, big moments” “Bucket list” “Lifetime experience” “Serene silence travelling with the wind” “Essential Africa” “The circle of life”

MARA OFFICES

RESERVATIONS

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Escape the ordinary with us

HOT AIR BALLOON SAFARI

Flying over the Masai Mara or the Serengeti in a hot air balloon is one of our most exclusive activities. The adventure begins at dawn, just when the sun begins to rise, one of the most incredible experiences that can be lived in Africa starts.

The hot air balloon rises, you will float gently over the plains of the magnificent Masai Mara or Serengeti. We can assure you that starting to see the first rays of sun in the distance on the savannah is something that will take your breath away.

Slowly the horizon will flood you with images of animal herds, trees like the beautiful baobabs, the immense meadows, and all kinds of vegetation and wildlife that you would never have imagined. You will be exposed to the most genuine sounds of nature.

A Balloon safari is an unique experience that will allow you to observe and enjoy the wildlife from a different perspective. Next, our guests will experience a delicious buffet breakfast with sparkling wine in a unforgettable setting, the amazing African Savannah.

Feel like a bird contemplating the Mara or Serengeti below you from an privileged view. Book your hot air balloon safari with us .

Be in touch

If you have any question about HOT AIR BALLOON SAFARI , please contact us and we will answer you. Thanks.

For operations enquiries (only) please contact our office in Arusha: +255 765 346 525 For enquires about availability please contact: +34 679 312 481 [email protected] (Spain) Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy | Work with us

• SERENGETI PUMZIKA LUXURY SAFARI CAMP
• NGORONGORO PAKULALA SAFARI CAMP
• LAKE VICTORIA LUKUBA ISLAND LODGE
• OLENGOTI SAFARI CAMP & COTTAGES MASAI MARA
• BALLOON SAFARI
• GAME DRIVES
• MASAI VILLAGE CULTURAL VISIT
• NATURE WALK
• HONEYMOON SAFARI EXPERIENCE
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Oh, Tarangire! The wildlife viewing here is wonderful, plenty of large mammals and incredible bird life.

Serenely floating over this landscape is nourishment for the soul. We love to fly here because it has such a different feel to Serengeti, it's less of a journey and more of an immersion in the scenery, aural vista and the peace of scanning for the wildlife below.

Where we Fly

The winds in Tarangire are soft, our flights here are gentle, slow and full of peace. You can gaze over the landscape, edged with mountains and ranges of hills as you drift from the Silale swamp, vibrant with wildlife, over the ridges and down to the baobab studded Tarangire river. On your way, look for herds of buffalo, Tarangire's famous elephants, as well as Zebra, eland, waterbuck and impala, whilst immersing yourself in the soundscape of the thousands of doves calling from below.

More about Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park, nestled in Northern Tanzania, boasts a rich tapestry of vibrant ecosystems. Dominated by the life-giving Tarangire River, this sanctuary becomes a verdant haven in the dry season, enticing throngs of wildlife. Majestic baobabs, some centuries-old, dot the landscape, their silhouettes etched against the expansive sky. Herds of elephants amble through grasslands, while lions lounge in the shade. Birds embellish the skies with a kaleidoscope of color, completing the park’s dynamic biodiversity. Tarangire's canvas melds dusty earth with the vivid greens of swamps, creating a refuge abundant with serenity and life.

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