serengeti Balloon Safari

A Once in a Lifetime Experience

The Serengeti, a world-renowned wildlife haven, is synonymous with untamed beauty and the iconic Great Migration. Spanning over 30,000 square kilometers, this vast wilderness offers some of the best wildlife viewing in Africa.

While game drives are a popular way to explore the Serengeti, there is another extraordinary experience that provides a unique perspective: a balloon safari. Floating serenely above the plains at sunrise, a balloon safari offers a breathtaking view of the landscape and wildlife that is simply unmatched.

What is a Balloon Safari?

A balloon safari is a magical journey that takes you soaring over the Serengeti’s endless plains. Picture this: an early morning start as the world below still sleeps, your balloon slowly inflating in the soft light of dawn. Once airborne, you drift gently over the landscape, suspended in silence except for the occasional burst of the burner keeping you aloft.

From this lofty perch, the Serengeti unveils itself in ways you could never imagine from the ground. Watch as herds of wildebeest move like flowing rivers below, while elephants graze and lions roam the grasslands. It’s an intimate yet expansive experience that allows you to see the Serengeti from an entirely new angle.

What to Expect on a Balloon Safari

Your balloon safari begins in the pre-dawn hours when you are picked up from your lodge or camp and transported to the launch site. As the balloon is prepared, you’ll witness the process of inflation, where giant fans fill the balloon with air, and then burners are used to heat it until it rises upright.

Once the balloon is ready, you’ll climb into the basket, and as the first rays of the sun begin to light up the sky, you’ll gently lift off. The flight typically lasts for about an hour, during which you’ll float over the Serengeti’s varied landscapes—from open savannahs to acacia-dotted plains. Depending on the season, you might even catch a glimpse of the Great Migration, with thousands of wildebeest and zebras moving in unison.

Throughout the flight, you’ll be able to spot wildlife below. From giraffes stretching their long necks to reach tree branches, to lions resting in the shade, the Serengeti’s incredible biodiversity is on full display. After an hour of awe-inspiring views, your pilot will find a suitable landing spot, and once on the ground, you’ll be treated to a celebratory champagne breakfast, a tradition that dates back to the early days of ballooning.

Why Choose a Balloon Safari?

A balloon safari offers a unique vantage point that no other safari experience can match. From above, the Serengeti’s vastness becomes even more apparent, and watching wildlife from this perspective is nothing short of mesmerizing. The experience combines adventure and tranquility, as you float effortlessly over the plains, disconnected from the hustle and bustle of the world below.

For photography enthusiasts, a balloon safari offers the opportunity to capture stunning panoramic shots of the landscape and wildlife. And if you’re lucky enough to witness the Great Migration from the air, it’s an unforgettable sight that you’ll carry with you forever.

Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or experiencing the Serengeti for the first time, a balloon safari is a must-do. It’s an opportunity to see this remarkable ecosystem in a way that very few people ever will.

The best time to embark on a balloon safari in the Serengeti largely depends on what you want to see. The Great Migration, one of nature’s most spectacular events, takes place throughout the year as millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores move in search of greener pastures. The timing of the migration varies, but typically, the best months for a balloon safari in the central and northern Serengeti are from June to September, when the herds are often concentrated in these areas.

During the dry season (June to October), the Serengeti offers excellent wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources. The weather is generally pleasant, with clear skies and cooler temperatures, making it an ideal time for a balloon safari. However, even during the wet season (November to May), the Serengeti remains incredibly beautiful, with lush green landscapes and plenty of wildlife to see. The short rains in November and the long rains from March to May create dramatic backdrops for your safari, and the wet season is also a great time for birdwatching.

  • How to Book: Most lodges and camps in the Serengeti can arrange a balloon safari for you, or you can book through a reputable tour operator.
  • Cost: Balloon safaris typically range from $500 to $600 per person. While it’s a premium experience, the views and memories are well worth the price.
  • Safety: Balloon safaris are conducted by highly trained and experienced pilots, and all safety measures are in place to ensure a smooth and secure experience. Briefings are conducted before the flight to make sure passengers are well-prepared.
  • Restrictions: Some balloon safari operators have age and weight restrictions, so it’s important to check these details when booking. Typically, children under 7 and people above a certain weight limit may not be able to participate for safety reasons.

A balloon safari in the Serengeti is a truly unique way to experience one of Africa’s most iconic destinations. The peacefulness of drifting above the plains, combined with the thrill of spotting wildlife from the sky, makes it a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Whether you’re witnessing the Great Migration or simply enjoying the beauty of the Serengeti from above, a balloon safari is a magical experience that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.