Are you ready for a once-in-a-lifetime Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Ride that will take you soaring above the African savannah?
Having experienced the exhilarating sensation of floating in a hot air balloon both over the Serengeti and Masai Mara, I’ve found each location offers a unique spin on an awe-inspiring phenomenon. In this guide, we’ll explore why a Serengeti hot air balloon ride might just be the ultimate aerial safari experience and how it compares to its Masai Mara counterpart.
The Magic Begins at Dawn
Getting up so early for your Serenegti hot air balloon ride might be the only con, but once in the air – it’s so worth it! Plan on getting up at 4 to 5 AM, it’ll most likely still be dark. The Serengeti hot air balloon ride tour companies do offer coffee, fruits and breads to take that morning edge off. We went in May and again in August and it was so cold that early! When you arrive at the field, the pilot’s teams are filling the balloons – quite extraordinary as the burners roar to life, these gentle giants fill up. There is also a whole process of getting into the basket. On our Serengeti hot air balloon ride, we climbed in and lay down sideways until the balloon gently lifted and righted us. On our Masai Mara hot air balloon ride, we climbed in vertically and it just lifted. On the sideways one, we dragged a bit so try and lie down in the upper birth.
This is the moment when the magic happens: the wildlife of the Serengeti begins to stir. Below, a herd of elephants enjoys a watering hole, and Wildebeests scatter, majestic and undisturbed. Nearby, a pride of lions saunters through the brush. From your vantage point in the sky, you’re not just observing nature; you’re part of it.
Why Choose Serengeti Over Masai Mara?
Both the Serengeti and Masai Mara offer spectacular hot air balloon rides, but there are subtle differences. The Serengeti covers a much larger area, giving balloonists more ground to cover and a greater chance of seeing diverse wildlife and landscapes. The timing of your visit might also influence your choice; the great migration typically reaches the Masai Mara later in the year, while it can be witnessed in the Serengeti earlier.
What to Expect During Your Hot Air Balloon Ride
Preparation and Takeoff
Your adventure begins just before dawn. After a brief safety orientation, you’ll board the balloon basket just before it’s completely full of air. If you’re sideways, you won’t see your own takeoff, if you’re upright – of course, the lift off is spectacular. The sensation as you lift off is gentle, and the peacefulness of the early morning is unparalleled.
In the Air
As you ascend, the Serengeti landscape reveals itself. You might spot hippos enjoying a swim, lions lounging after a night of hunting, or gazelles grazing. We also saw Wildebeests by the thousands, giraffes nibbling at the treetops, Cape Buffalo and lots of hyenas. The flight path follows the wind currents, making each ride unique. We nearly touched down in Kenya due to wind!
Landing and Celebration
After approximately an hour aloft on your amazing Serengeti hot air balloon ride, your pilot will find a safe landing spot. Celebrations often follow, with a traditional champagne toast and sometimes a full breakfast right in the bush!
The balloon cannot steer, so your skilled pilot uses his best judgement to find the ideal landing spot. That said, it can still be a bit rough due to termite hills.
Tips for a Memorable Hot Air Balloon Experience
- Dress in layers as it can be chilly before sunrise and warm later in the day.
- Bring a camera with a good zoom to capture the incredible views and wildlife below.
- Have a portable charger for your smart phone, you’ll probably take lots of video which can drain your battery.
- Listen to your pilot; they can offer insights into the landscape and wildlife you encounter.
Hot Air Balloon Ride Packages and Pricing
Most balloon operators in the Serengeti offer packages that include a pre-flight briefing, the flight lasting about one hour, a champagne toast, and often a bush breakfast. Prices typically range from $500 to $600 per person, depending on the season and the level of luxury.
The Ethereal Joy of Floating Above the Serengeti
There’s something profoundly peaceful and exciting about drifting over the Serengeti in a hot air balloon. It’s a chance to see the world from a new perspective, to remove yourself from the immediacy of daily life and see nature at its most raw and beautiful.
A Serengeti hot air balloon ride isn’t just a tick on a bucket list; it’s an immersive experience that combines thrill, tranquility, and the awe of nature’s grandeur. Whether comparing it with a balloon ride over the Masai Mara or any other great adventure, it stands out as a pinnacle of aerial adventures.
FAQs: Serengeti vs. Masai Mara Hot Air Balloon Rides
Which is better for photography?
The Serengeti generally offers more expansive landscapes, which can provide a more dramatic backdrop for wildlife and nature photography.
Can you go on a balloon ride any time of the year?
Yes, hot air balloon rides are offered year-round in both the Serengeti and Masai Mara. However, seasonal weather conditions may affect visibility and the types of wildlife you can see.
Are hot air balloon rides in Serengeti safe?
Hot air ballooning is very safe in both locations. Operators are required to follow strict safety regulations and pilots are highly trained.
Embarking on a Serengeti hot air balloon ride promises an adventure like no other. It’s not just about seeing the wildlife or experiencing the sunrise from above; it’s about the profound realization of our place in the natural world. As you float silently above the plains, what unfolds below is a live tableau of life on Earth, as wild and free as it has been for millennia.
➡️ DOWNLOAD MY FREE PDF SAFARI STYLE & PURCHASE GUIDE – You don’t need to overbuy and you don’t want clothes to sit in your closet when you come home. Buy chic, smart and comfortable.
You might also enjoy …
An Adventure of a Lifetime: Exploring the Wonders of the Masai Mara Safari in Africa 2024
Need help planning?
Planning is sometimes the most daunting part! I can take that hassle away. As your professional travel agent, I’m here to guide you through the maze of travel planning. Whether you need a little assistance or comprehensive support for your entire journey, I offer a range of services to suit your needs. Some of my services are complimentary, while others are provided with expert care as part of my agent offerings. If you’re interested in crafting an unforgettable travel experience, please reach out to me at by clicking here . Let’s embark on this exciting journey together!
