Serengeti Balloon Safari – A Once-in-a-Lifetime Adventure

What is Serengeti Balloon Safari?

A Serengeti Balloon Safari is a thrilling aerial excursion that allows tourists to experience the Serengeti in a way few others have. The adventure begins in the early morning hours, just before sunrise, when guests board a hot air balloon for an hour-long flight over the savannah. As the balloon gently rises into the air, passengers are treated to panoramic views of the Serengeti, watching the wildlife below as the sun rises over the horizon. It is a magical experience where the beauty of nature unfolds in front of your eyes from a unique vantage point.

Aerial Views of the Serengeti

The Serengeti National Park, one of the most famous wildlife reserves in the world, spans over 14,000 square miles. Its vast, open plains are teeming with wildlife, from the iconic "Big Five" (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros) to cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests. The aerial perspective provided by the balloon offers a fresh perspective of these creatures in their natural habitat. The sight of large herds of wildebeests migrating, elephants ambling through the grasslands, and lions lounging under acacia trees is truly something to behold.

The Serengeti's landscapes, from the golden plains to the woodlands and river systems, are particularly breathtaking from the air. The sight of the meandering Mara River, dotted with hippos and crocodiles, or the towering kopjes (rock formations) that are often home to predators like lions and leopards, adds to the magic of the experience.

The Balloon Ride Experience

The Serengeti Balloon Safari begins early in the morning, typically around 5:30 AM, with guests arriving at the take-off site. Passengers are welcomed with a hot drink and a briefing on the balloon ride, followed by a quick safety check. The hot air balloon itself is massive, capable of carrying up to 16 passengers along with a pilot. As the balloon rises, the tranquility and serenity of the ride become immediately apparent, with the only sounds being the soft hum of the burners and the occasional calls of birds.

The flight lasts about an hour, offering ample time to take in the awe-inspiring views below. The pilot, often an experienced guide, will provide information about the wildlife and landscape, enhancing the educational aspect of the safari. Guests are encouraged to bring cameras to capture this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Landing and Celebrating the Adventure

At the end of the flight, the balloon begins its descent, and the pilot carefully lands the balloon in a predetermined area. Upon landing, the adventure continues with a celebratory champagne toast, a tradition that marks the end of a successful flight. Afterward, guests are taken to a nearby location for a delicious bush breakfast, often served in a scenic spot in the heart of the Serengeti, surrounded by nature.

What Makes the Serengeti Balloon Safari Special?

Unlike a traditional game drive, a hot air balloon safari offers a bird’s-eye view of the Serengeti’s breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife.

Your Serengeti Balloon Safari Experience

Your adventure begins before sunrise as we pick you up from your lodge or campsite and transport you to the launch site.

What You Will Experience

• Rise above the Serengeti just in time for a breathtaking African sunrise.
• Spot an array of wildlife, from herds of elephants to majestic lions.
• Enjoy panoramic views of the Serengeti’s rolling plains and river systems.
• Capture once-in-a-lifetime photographs from the perfect aerial perspective.
• Land safely and celebrate with a traditional champagne breakfast in the wild.

Serengeti Balloon Safari Price

Only $200 per person – an unbeatable price for an unforgettable experience!

Best Time for a Serengeti Balloon Safari

June to October:

Ideal for witnessing the Great Migration as vast herds cross the plains.

November to May:

Lush green landscapes with an abundance of wildlife, perfect for photography.