Have you ever dreamed of floating high above the vast, golden plains of Africa? If your answer is yes, an East Africa balloon safari is the perfect way to make that dream come true. These thrilling experiences are available in some of the most iconic safari destinations. Picture yourself soaring above herds of wildebeest, giraffes grazing on the horizon, and acacia trees dotted across the savannah – all while the sun rises in spectacular shades of red and orange over the plains of the Masai Mara in Kenya, or the Serengeti or Tarangire NP in Tanzania.
A hot air balloon safari is the ultimate addition to any East African adventure, offering a perspective on wildlife and landscapes that’s unlike anything else. Here’s why a balloon safari should be on your bucket list:
A Magical Start to the Day
Your journey begins well before dawn, often around 4am, when you’re picked up from your camp and driven through the stillness of the African bush. The drive itself is shrouded in mystery—who knows what animals you’ll spot along the way? On my trip, I was lucky enough to see a serval, lions, and even a hippo.
As you approach the launch site, your adrenaline surges. The giant balloons are lying on the ground, half-inflated, set against a deep ruby-red sky. The air is crisp, and the excitement mounts as you’re greeted with hot tea, coffee, and warming fires to fight off the early morning chill (tip: be sure to layer up and bring a beanie!).
The Thrill of Launching Into the Sky
As the sky lightens and the sun begins to rise, it’s time for the launch. You and your group will be allocated to your balloon based on weight distribution, ensuring a safe and balanced flight. After a comprehensive briefing from your pilot, the real adventure begins.
In East Africa, boarding the balloon is an experience in itself! You’ll climb into the massive basket while it’s still on its side, and in an almost weird twist (think Escher!), you end up sitting down but lying on your back, securing your harness with the balloon only partially inflated. Don’t worry – the crew is there to help you every step of the way.
Once everyone is settled, your pilot starts pumping hot air into the balloon, which gradually tilts the basket upright and then lifts it off the ground. It’s a surreal feeling when the balloon begins to rise, and the earth slowly recedes below you. As the balloon ascends, you’ll be able to stand and witness the incredible landscape unfolding beneath you.
A Glimpse of African Wildlife from Above
The true magic of a balloon safari lies in the ability to silently drift over the plains, allowing you to observe animals from a vantage point you’ll never experience in a vehicle or on foot. As you float through the air like a bird, the basket constantly rotating to share the views amongst you all, you might see giraffes ambling across the grasslands, a herd of wildebeest spread across the plains, a huge elephant staring at you with disdain, or even a pride of lions – heads turned upwards with eyes wide.
Your pilot will skillfully navigate the winds, taking you higher or lower to give you the best views. Whether you’re flying over the vast Serengeti, witnessing the Great Migration, or floating above a kopje (granite hill), the experience is simply unforgettable. The gentle drift of the balloon combined with the vast, open sky creates an unparalleled sense of peace and awe.
The Final Descent and a Traditional Champagne Toast
After about 45 minutes to an hour of flight, it’s time to begin the descent. The balloon doesn’t just drop – your pilot carefully lines everything up, communicating with the ground crew and the vehicles that will be waiting to pick you up. The landing itself is a gentle bumpity bump, and you gently tip over as the balloon deflates. It’s such fun watching the world tilt over and catching the eyes of some startled zebra in the distance.
Once you’re safely out of the basket, the fun isn’t over. You’ll gather for a traditional champagne toast, celebrating the incredible experience you’ve just had. From there, it’s time for a thrilling safari drive to the breakfast site, where a gourmet feast awaits. Picture a full breakfast spread in the middle of the savannah, complete with a loo with a view!
Why You Should Take an East Africa Balloon Safari
While balloon safaris are undeniably a premium experience, the memories you make are priceless. Yes, they’re not cheap, but if you save early, the experience will be worth every penny. For those travelling on a budget, balloon safaris in Kenya tend to be slightly more affordable than in Tanzania’s Serengeti.
The sights, the sounds, and the feeling of gliding peacefully above the African plains will stay with you forever. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or someone looking for an unforgettable safari experience, a hot air balloon ride is an absolute must.
Plan Your Balloon Safari in East Africa
Ready to experience the thrill of an East Africa balloon safari over Africa’s most stunning landscapes? Whether you’re planning a trip to Kenya or Tanzania, we can help you book the adventure of a lifetime. Get in touch with us today to start planning your dream safari.
Key Takeaways:
- Location: Hot air balloon safaris are available in the Masai Mara in Kenya and the Tarangire & the Serengeti in Tanzania.
- Experience: A magical start to the day, stunning aerial views of wildlife, and an unforgettable sunrise over the African plains.
- Wildlife: Look out for giraffes, zebra, wildebeest, lion, elephant and even the chance to witness the Great Migration.
- Price: Balloon safaris are a luxury experience, so start saving early for this incredible adventure.
Look at these Travel Africa packages and small group tours for inspiration:
7 Day Best of Kenya Small Group Tour
7 Day Best of Tanzania Small Group Tour
13 Day Best of Kenya & Tanzania Small Group Tour