Hot Air Balloon Flights:
A Safari Experience in Serengeti National Park
Serengeti hot air balloon safari
A hot air balloon safari in Serengeti National Park is an unparalleled way to explore the vastness of the park and its wildlife. Imagine gliding silently over the plains, skimming the treetops, and enjoying panoramic views of the landscape below. This experience is essential to any safari for those visiting Serengeti National Park
Locations and Schedule
Serengeti hot air balloon flights are available daily at 6:00 am from four launch sites within Serengeti National Park. One site is open year-round near Seronera, while others are located in the Ndutu area (from December 25 to March 15), the Western Corridor (from June to October), and northern Serengeti (from July to October).
Most flights include sections flown at higher altitudes, offering unobstructed views of the Serengeti, while low-level flying provides the chance to see wildlife up close. Experienced pilots can follow rivers and streams, gliding just meters above grunting hippos or wandering giraffes. Flying low also allows for some impressive aerial wildlife photography. The balloon crew follows your flight from the ground, tracking your path and ensuring a safe landing at the journey’s end.
The Experience
While not inexpensive, the hot air balloon safari experience is well worth the cost. Drifting serenely over the treetops as the sun rises, you can take in the endless Serengeti plains from an unforgettable perspective. Early morning departures also provide the opportunity to catch nocturnal predators preparing for the day.
Most flights include sections flown at higher altitudes, offering unobstructed views of the Serengeti, while low-level flying provides the chance to see wildlife up close. Experienced pilots can follow rivers and streams, gliding just meters above grunting hippos or wandering giraffes. Flying low also allows for some impressive aerial wildlife photography. The balloon crew follows your flight from the ground, tracking your path and ensuring a safe landing at the journey’s end.
Serengeti hot Air Ballooning and the Great Migration
To have the best chance of seeing the Great Migration, booking a flight in the Ndutu area between December and March is recommended. During this time, large groups of wildebeest and zebra gather in the area. Although you may be able to spot the migration in other places, it’s essential to remember that the herds move around and may only be in one spot for a short time, sometimes just a couple of days. Seeing the Great Migration from the air is also a gamble, as it can depend on luck and timing.
Pricing
A hot air balloon flight in Serengeti National Park costs US $599 per person, which includes the Tanapa ballooning fee of US $40. This price covers the transfer from your lodge or camp to the departure site, the balloon flight, and a champagne breakfast following the landing. Flights last between 50 and 70 minutes, and breakfast is served at a different location daily, depending on the landing site. Each balloon can accommodate up to 16 passengers.
Planning Your Safari
Be prepared for an early start. The transfer from the Seronera area departs at 5:30 am, while other lodges depart around 4:00 am. Bring warm clothing and a bag to secure your camera, binoculars, and other personal items. We can arrange hot air balloon departures from most lodges and camps in Serengeti National Park. We strongly recommend booking in advance, as it’s a popular activity that fills up quickly, especially during peak season.
Weather Cancellations and Pricing
Hot air ballooning is weather-dependent. If your flight is canceled due to poor weather, we will rebook you on a later flight, or a refund will be issued. Balloon flights are expensive, particularly in remote areas like Serengeti National Park. Balloons must be in top condition and require replacement after around 850 flight hours. One balloon costs over US $100,000, and fuel and crew costs are significant. Each crew consists of six people plus a licensed pilot. Ten individuals work behind the scenes to get the balloon airborne, and there are recovery and transfer vehicles and backup operations. A large portion of the total price is allocated to conservation fees.
Experience the Serengeti from a New Perspective
Book Your Hot Air Balloon Adventure Today!
Rise above the plains and witness the stunning wildlife and landscapes from a bird’s-eye view. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to elevate your safari experience.