Unforgettable Hot Air Balloon Safaris in Serengeti and Masai Mara | Ultimate Aerial Adventure

Hot Air Balloon Safaris in Serengeti and Masai Mara – A Once-in-a-Lifetime African Experience

Imagine silently soaring over the endless golden plains of the Serengeti or the lush, wildlife-rich valleys of the Masai Mara National Reserve at sunrise. Below you, herds of elephants march through ancient game trails, giraffes feed among acacia trees, and lions prowl the tall grass — all bathed in the soft morning light. This is the magic of a hot air balloon safari in Serengeti National Park and Masai Mara National Reserve, one of the most unforgettable ways to experience East Africa’s legendary landscapes.

A hot air balloon safari offers more than just an aerial view of Africa’s wildlife. It delivers a unique perspective on the Great Migration, a front-row seat to untamed beauty, and a sense of peace and wonder unlike any traditional game drive. Whether you’re watching wildebeest thunder through the Mara River or catching a glimpse of a leopard slinking beneath the trees, the experience is immersive and utterly unforgettable.

This blog will guide you through everything you need to know about booking a hot air balloon safari in Serengeti National Park or Masai Mara National Reserve — from what to expect during the flight, the best times and locations, to pricing, age limits, safety standards, and tips for getting the most out of your journey. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a family adventure, or a photography expedition, this guide will help you make the most of your bucket-list experience.

So, if you’ve ever searched for:

• “Is a hot air balloon safari in Africa worth it?”
• “Best hot air balloon rides in Serengeti or Masai Mara”
• “How much does a hot air balloon safari cost?”
• “Hot air balloon Serengeti vs Masai Mara”

…then you’re in the right place.

Let’s begin your journey into the skies of East Africa.

What is a Hot Air Balloon Safari and How Does It Work?

A hot air balloon safari in Serengeti or Masai Mara is one of the most awe-inspiring ways to witness Africa’s wildlife from a bird’s-eye view. Unlike traditional game drives, which keep you on the ground, a balloon safari lifts you silently into the sky at dawn, giving you a panoramic view of the vast savannah, rivers, and valleys teeming with wildlife.

The Experience Step-by-Step:

1. Early Morning Pickup:
Your adventure begins before sunrise. You’ll be picked up from your lodge or camp (either inside or near the park) as early as 4:30 AM to 5:00 AM, depending on the season and launch site. A light breakfast is typically served before departure.

2. Safety Briefing and Inflation:
Upon arriving at the launch site, you’ll meet your experienced and certified balloon pilot. The ground crew will prepare the balloon for flight — a dramatic process as flames roar into the envelope, bringing the massive balloon to life.

3. Takeoff at Sunrise:
Just before the sun rises, you gently lift off. The launch is smooth, and soon you’re floating over the landscape, watching the Serengeti’s endless plains or the rolling hills of Masai Mara awaken with life.

4. One-Hour Scenic Flight:
Flights usually last 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on wind conditions. Your pilot will navigate with the breeze at varying altitudes, offering both sweeping aerial views and low passes that bring you just above treetops and herds of animals.

5. Wildlife Spotting from the Sky:
Expect to see herds of zebras, wildebeest, elephants, giraffes, buffalos, and even predators like lions or cheetahs — all without disturbing their natural behavior. In the dry season, you might witness the dramatic Great Migration from above, including the famed Mara River crossings.

6. Champagne Bush Breakfast:
Upon landing, you’ll be greeted by the ground crew and treated to a traditional champagne bush breakfast, set up under a shaded acacia tree or open plain. Fresh fruits, pastries, eggs, sausages, and coffee or juice await — all served with breathtaking views of the wilderness.

7. Certificate Ceremony and Transfer Back:
To commemorate your journey, you’ll receive a hot air balloon safari certificate, signed by your pilot. After breakfast, a game drive transfer will return you to your lodge or a central pickup point.

Hot air balloon safaris operate under strict safety protocols, and all pilots are licensed and trained extensively in aviation and bush conditions. The flight is smooth, safe, and suitable for most travelers — though there are some restrictions

Top Locations for Hot Air Balloon Safaris – Serengeti vs Masai Mara

When planning a hot air balloon safari in East Africa, the two most iconic destinations come to mind — Serengeti National Park in Tanzania and Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya. Both are part of the same ecosystem and offer front-row seats to the Great Migration. But how do they compare when it comes to balloon safaris?

Let’s explore each region to help you decide where to lift off.

Hot Air Balloon Safari in Serengeti National Park (Tanzania)

The Serengeti is a vast expanse of grassland stretching over 14,750 square kilometers, offering unmatched diversity and scale. It is the birthplace of the Great Migration — where over 1.5 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras begin their circular journey.

Best Balloon Safari Locations in Serengeti:

• Central Serengeti (Seronera): Year-round balloon safaris with abundant resident wildlife. Excellent for first-time visitors and photography.
• Ndutu Region (Southern Serengeti): Ideal from December to March during the calving season. Balloon flights here offer dramatic views of birthing herds and predators.
• Western Corridor (Grumeti): Peak season between May and July during the Grumeti River crossings. It’s less crowded than Mara River and equally thrilling.
• Northern Serengeti (Kogatende/Lamai): Best from July to October, during the Mara River crossings, when thousands of wildebeest plunge into crocodile-infested waters.

Why Choose Serengeti for a Balloon Safari?

• Larger area with fewer crowds compared to Masai Mara
• Multiple launch sites tailored to the migration’s movement
• Quieter skies — fewer balloons flying at once
• Deeper bush experience, especially when combining multiple camps

Hot Air Balloon Safari in Masai Mara National Reserve (Kenya)

The Masai Mara is smaller but intensely rich in wildlife. It covers about 1,510 square kilometers and lies directly along the path of the Great Migration from July to October. The landscape is a mosaic of rolling hills, acacia trees, and meandering rivers.

Popular Balloon Safari Zones in Masai Mara:

• Mara Triangle: Excellent views of wildlife, river crossings, and open plains.
• Talek and Musiara sectors: Often used by many balloon companies. Scenic and easily accessible.
• Private Conservancies: Mara North, Naboisho, and Olare Motorogi offer exclusive balloon rides with fewer visitors and vehicles.

Why Choose Masai Mara for a Balloon Safari?

• Higher density of big cats (lions, leopards, cheetahs)
• Shorter distances between lodges and launch sites
• Often more affordable balloon safaris due to competition
• Great for those already on a Kenya safari itinerary

Serengeti vs Masai Mara: Which is Better for Hot Air Balloon Safaris?

Final Take:

If you’re after a remote and immersive wilderness with flexible ballooning regions and fewer crowds, the Serengeti hot air balloon safari is ideal. If you’re traveling in Kenya or seeking slightly lower ballooning costs, the Masai Mara hot air balloon ride is still a breathtaking choice.

Both offer world-class experiences — and many travelers choose to combine both parks in a single East African safari itinerary.

Best Time for a Hot Air Balloon Safari in Serengeti National Park and Masai Mara National Reserve

Timing is everything when it comes to the magic of a hot air balloon safari. Both the Serengeti National Park and Masai Mara National Reserve offer breathtaking flights year-round, but certain seasons provide more dramatic scenery, migration spectacles, and better weather for safe flights.

Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Safari – Best Times by Region

Because of its size and ecosystem diversity, the Serengeti is a year-round ballooning destination. But different regions shine at different times:

• Central Serengeti (Seronera) – Best from June to October and December to March
  Ideal for seeing resident wildlife like elephants, giraffes, lions, and leopards even outside migration periods. Morning skies are usually clear and safe for flying.
• Southern Serengeti (Ndutu) – December to March (Calving Season)
  Experience the unforgettable birthing season of wildebeest — over 8,000 calves are born daily. It’s a predator’s paradise and a photographer’s dream from the sky.
• Western Serengeti (Grumeti) – May to July
  A quieter Great Migration highlight: the wildebeest crossing the Grumeti River. Balloon safaris here are lesser-known and more exclusive.
• Northern Serengeti (Kogatende/Lamai) – July to October
  This is the time to witness the famous Mara River crossings in Tanzania’s corner of the ecosystem — with dramatic predator-prey interactions and crocodile-filled waters.

Masai Mara Hot Air Balloon Safari – Best Time to Visit

• Peak Season (July to October):
  During the Great Migration, balloon rides soar over vast herds crossing the Mara River. Early mornings in this period are often calm and clear — perfect for flights.
• Green Season (November to June):
  Though the migration may be gone, the Masai Mara still delivers. Balloon flights in these months offer beautiful green landscapes, baby animals, and fewer crowds.

Best Time to Go for a Hot Air Balloon Safari | Dry Season vs Green Season

Best Overall Months for a Hot Air Balloon Safari:

• In the Serengeti: July–October (for migration river crossings) and December–March (for calving season).
• In the Masai Mara: July–October (Great Migration peak).

Pro Tip:

Hot air balloon safaris always begin at sunrise, when winds are calm and visibility is ideal. Regardless of location, it’s best to book your balloon safari on your first available morning, in case weather causes rescheduling.

What to Expect During a Hot Air Balloon Safari in Serengeti or Masai Mara

Whether you’re soaring above the golden plains of the Serengeti National Park or the rolling savannah of the Masai Mara National Reserve, a hot air balloon safari offers a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. But what exactly happens from the moment you’re picked up to the final celebratory breakfast? Here’s a detailed guide to the full experience — what to expect and why it’s worth every second.

1. Early Morning Pickup & Drive to Launch Site

Your hot air balloon safari day begins long before sunrise. Expect a pickup time between 4:30 AM and 5:00 AM, depending on the distance from your lodge to the launch site. In the darkness of the African wilderness, your transfer vehicle glides through the park, offering the chance to spot nocturnal animals like hyenas or bush babies.

You’ll arrive at the balloon launch site around 5:30 AM, where you’ll be greeted with coffee, tea, and light snacks while watching the impressive inflation process begin.

2. Balloon Inflation and Safety Briefing

The balloon is inflated with roaring bursts of flame that light up the pre-dawn sky. The crew ensures the envelope is fully expanded and tethered securely, and the pilot gives a full safety briefing. You’ll be assisted into the basket, which is divided into secure compartments for safety and balance.

3. Sunrise Takeoff – A Magical Moment

As the sun rises over the Serengeti or Masai Mara horizon, the balloon gently lifts off the ground. There’s no jerking or noise — just an incredibly smooth and peaceful ascent, offering 360-degree views of the landscape. It’s often said the first five minutes in the sky are unforgettable, and that’s no exaggeration.

4. Wildlife Viewing from the Sky

Once airborne, the true beauty of a hot air balloon safari unfolds. You’ll float silently above vast open plains, rivers, acacia forests, and rocky kopjes, often flying at different altitudes to catch unique perspectives.

Expect to see:

• Herds of elephants, zebras, wildebeest, and antelopes grazing below.
• Towering giraffes wandering alone or in pairs.
• Big cats like lions or cheetahs hunting or resting on rock outcrops.
• In migration season, thousands of wildebeest on the move or gathered near rivers — a truly spectacular sight.

Flight duration is usually 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on wind conditions and terrain.

5. Gentle Landing in the Bush

After an awe-inspiring flight, your pilot begins a slow descent. Landings are controlled but may involve the basket tipping on its side — a normal part of ballooning, especially in grassy terrain. The crew will already be at the landing site waiting to assist.

6. Champagne Bush Breakfast

A traditional champagne toast and bush breakfast await you at a beautifully set table near the landing site. Enjoy fresh fruit, eggs, bacon, pastries, and local specialties — all while basking in the post-flight glow and surrounded by untamed nature.

The breakfast location often overlooks scenic plains, rivers, or forests — allowing for a quiet, surreal connection with the African wilderness.

7. Certificate Ceremony and Game Drive Transfer

Before departing, you’ll receive a Hot Air Balloon Safari Certificate, signed by your pilot — a special keepsake to commemorate your flight. From there, you’ll be transferred back to your lodge or join a morning game drive to continue your day of adventure.

This magical experience is suitable for couples, families, solo travelers, and photographers — and can be enjoyed as part of any Serengeti safari itinerary or Masai Mara safari package.

How Much Does a Hot Air Balloon Safari Cost in Serengeti or Masai Mara?

One of the most frequently asked questions about this unforgettable experience is: “How much does a hot air balloon safari cost in Serengeti or Masai Mara?” While the cost may seem high compared to other safari activities, what you’re paying for is exclusivity, logistics, and a once-in-a-lifetime experience that few travelers ever get to enjoy.

Prices vary depending on location, season, and operator, but here’s a general idea of what to expect:

Why the Price Is Worth It

The cost of a hot air balloon safari in Serengeti or Masai Mara reflects the exclusive nature of the experience. It includes:

• A limited number of passengers per flight (usually 12–16 max)
• Pre-dawn transfers across the park
• Full support crew and certified pilot
• Fresh bush breakfast with drinks
• Unique aerial access to remote parts of the park

If you’re already investing in a safari to East Africa, adding a balloon flight is one of the best ways to elevate your trip and create memories that last a lifetime.

When Is the Best Time to Book a Hot Air Balloon Safari in Serengeti or Masai Mara?

Timing is everything when planning a hot air balloon safari in Serengeti or Masai Mara. Your goal should be to fly during periods of clear skies, minimal wind, and — if possible — during major wildlife events such as the Great Migration. That said, both locations offer incredible ballooning experiences year-round, each with its own highlights.

Best Time for Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Safaris

The Serengeti National Park is vast, and balloon flights typically take off in the Central Serengeti (Seronera area), where wildlife is abundant throughout the year. However, if you’re chasing the Great Migration, timing your safari right can make your flight even more epic.

• January – March: Calving season in the southern Serengeti (Ndutu). Expect thousands of wildebeest giving birth — and predators lurking.
• June – July: One of the best times for ballooning in the western corridor as herds begin their northern journey.
• August – October: Central and northern Serengeti are ideal as the migration moves toward Kenya. Expect epic aerial views of huge herds and potential river crossings.

Best Time for Masai Mara Hot Air Balloon Safaris

The Masai Mara in Kenya is slightly smaller and more compact, making balloon safaris incredibly rewarding almost any time of year.

• July – October: Peak season for the Great Migration in Masai Mara. Wildebeest and zebra cross the Mara River, and balloon flights often float above dramatic scenes of life and death.
• November – March: The “green season” offers lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and excellent photographic conditions.

Year-Round Ballooning? Yes — Here’s Why

Hot air balloon safaris are not limited to just migration months. Even outside of peak migration, the resident wildlife in both Serengeti and Masai Mara is extraordinary — including lions, elephants, cheetahs, giraffes, buffalo, and more. The weather is generally stable in the early mornings year-round, making ballooning possible almost every day (subject to wind).

When to Book?

Balloon safaris sell out fast, especially in high season. It’s strongly recommended to book at least 3–6 months in advance, particularly if you’re traveling from June to October or during festive periods like Christmas and New Year.

Booking early ensures:

• Guaranteed seat on the balloon
• Best takeoff zones aligned with the migration
• Smooth coordination with your safari itinerary

What to Expect on the Day of Your Hot Air Balloon Safari (Step-by-Step)

Experiencing a hot air balloon safari in Serengeti National Park or Masai Mara National Reserve is unlike any other wildlife adventure. The day begins early and ends with memories that last a lifetime. Here’s exactly what to expect:

1. Early Morning Wake-Up Call (Around 4:30 AM – 5:00 AM)

Your balloon safari begins well before sunrise. A staff member from your lodge or camp will gently wake you up and offer a quick refreshment — typically tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. Dress warmly, as early mornings in the bush can be chilly.

2. Transfer to the Launch Site

A short 15–30 minute drive in a safari vehicle takes you to the designated balloon launch site. En route, you might spot nocturnal animals like hyenas, owls, or early risers like jackals.

3. Pre-Flight Briefing by the Pilot

Upon arrival, the balloon pilot will greet you with a warm welcome and a safety briefing. You’ll be shown how to get in and out of the basket, proper landing posture, and general dos and don’ts. All pilots are highly experienced and licensed professionals.

4. Watching the Balloon Inflate

One of the most magical moments — seeing the enormous balloon slowly fill with hot air as the flame roars. It glows softly in the dark, and the excitement builds. Don’t forget to take photos!

5. Takeoff at Sunrise (Around 6:00 AM)

As the sun rises over the savannah, your balloon gracefully lifts off the ground. You’ll ascend into the sky for a 50–60 minute flight, gliding silently over the Serengeti or Masai Mara.

Expect to see:

• Herds of elephants, zebra, giraffes, and perhaps even a pride of lions below
• Breathtaking landscapes, rivers, acacia trees, and distant kopjes
• The Great Migration (season-dependent), with tens of thousands of wildebeest and zebra thundering below

6. Soft Landing and Balloon Deflation

After the flight, your pilot will guide the balloon to a gentle landing. The ground crew will be waiting to assist. The balloon is deflated and packed — and then it’s time for your celebration!

7. Champagne Bush Breakfast

A tradition dating back to the early balloon flights in Africa — you’ll be treated to a full bush breakfast with champagne, freshly prepared on-site. Enjoy fresh fruits, eggs, sausages, pastries, coffee, and bubbly amidst nature.

8. Presentation of Flight Certificate

To commemorate your experience, you’ll receive a personalized flight certificate, signed by the pilot. A small gesture, but a big memory.

9. Return to Lodge and Resume Safari

You’ll be transferred back to your lodge or meet up with your guide to continue your regular game drive. It’s only around 9:00 AM, and you’ve already had the adventure of a lifetime.

Hot Air Balloon Safari Cost – What’s Included & Is It Worth It?

One of the most common questions travelers ask is: “How much does a hot air balloon safari cost in Serengeti or Masai Mara?” While it may be one of the pricier experiences on your itinerary, it is often cited as the highlight of an entire trip — and for good reason.

How Much Does a Hot Air Balloon Safari Cost?

The average hot air balloon safari price varies depending on location, operator, and time of year. Here’s a general price breakdown

These prices include everything from pickup to the champagne breakfast and are often pre-booked as part of your safari package.

What’s Included in the Price?

Despite the premium price tag, a hot air balloon safari in Serengeti or Masai Mara offers incredible value when you consider what’s bundled in:

• Early morning hotel/lodge pickup and return
• Pre-flight safety briefing with certified pilot
• 50–60 minutes flight across the national park
• Scenic wildlife viewing from the air
• Spectacular sunrise experience over the savannah
• Full champagne bush breakfast post-flight
• Personalized flight certificate
• Government park and balloon landing fees
• Emergency evacuation and insurance cover

There are no hidden fees — the price is all-inclusive.

Is a Hot Air Balloon Safari Worth the Money?

Yes — absolutely, for most travelers. Here’s why:

1. Aerial Wildlife Views: Seeing herds of elephants, giraffes, and (if timed right) the Great Migration from above offers a cinematic perspective that is impossible from a safari vehicle.
2. Once-in-a-Lifetime Moment: This is not an everyday experience. It’s a milestone — a safari memory that guests never forget.
3. Perfect for Special Occasions: Honeymoons, birthdays, anniversaries, engagements, or family celebrations — the balloon safari turns any moment into something magical.
4. Photography Heaven: The soft golden light, sweeping panoramas, and wildlife scenes below make it a favorite for photographers and content creators.
5. Low Environmental Impact: Balloon safaris leave minimal footprint and are one of the most sustainable ways to observe wildlife.

If you’re seeking a luxurious, unique, and unforgettable wildlife encounter, this is it. While the hot air balloon safari price in Serengeti or Masai Mara may seem high at first, the sheer value and memory it brings make it worth every cent.

Tips for Booking and Making the Most of Your Hot Air Balloon Safari

Booking a hot air balloon safari in Serengeti or Masai Mara is a once-in-a-lifetime experience — and with the right preparation, it can be even more magical. Below are smart travel tips and expert advice to help you get the best value, timing, and experience.

1. Book in Advance – Especially in Peak Season

Balloon safaris are limited in capacity and sell out quickly, especially between June and October when the Great Migration is in full swing. Book your balloon safari at least 3–6 months in advance, or as soon as you confirm your safari itinerary. Operators fly only once per day, early morning, so availability is limited.

2. Pick the Right Location Based on Migration Timing

• Ndutu (South): Best from December to March (calving season)
• Western Corridor: Ideal between May and June
• Central Serengeti (Seronera): Good year-round
• North Serengeti: Best from July to October (Mara River crossings)

For Masai Mara, July to October is peak time when the migration enters Kenya. Year-round flights also offer incredible sightings of resident wildlife.

3. Don’t Forget Warm Layers

Early mornings in the bush are chilly. Bring a warm fleece or jacket — you’ll appreciate it during the pre-dawn drive and ascent. Once airborne, the burner warms the basket, but it’s still cooler than daytime temperatures.

4. Carry a Good Camera (or Phone with a Great Lens)

A hot air balloon safari offers some of the most photogenic landscapes and aerial wildlife shots you’ll ever see. Zoom lenses or drones are not allowed, but a steady hand and a good phone or DSLR are perfect for capturing sweeping vistas and animal herds.

5. Be Ready for an Early Start

Most balloon safaris begin with a 4:30–5:00 AM pickup. You’ll arrive at the launch site before sunrise and be airborne by dawn. Sleep early the night before to fully enjoy the magical start to your day.

6. Travel Light

Don’t carry bulky items — space in the basket is limited. Keep essentials like your phone, camera, and small water bottle close by.

7. Be Honest About Medical Conditions

Although balloon rides are generally smooth, you will need to climb in and out of the basket and stand for up to an hour. Let your tour operator know if you have back issues, are pregnant, or have mobility challenges.

8. Choose Reputable Operators

Not all balloon safari companies are created equal. At Nextgen Safaris, we work only with certified, experienced, and safety-checked operators to ensure the highest standards. You are covered by insurance, professional pilots, and a full emergency plan.

9. Embrace the Silence

Apart from the burner’s occasional roar, your flight will be eerily silent — and that’s the beauty. Soak in the sound of nature, the wind, and the distant calls of animals as you float above the wilderness.

When done right, a hot air balloon safari in Masai Mara or Serengeti is more than a tour — it’s a timeless experience that captures the spirit of Africa from the sky.

Combine Hot Air Balloon Safaris with Gorilla Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda

For the ultimate African adventure, pair your hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti National Park or Masai Mara National Reserve with an unforgettable Gorilla Trekking experience in Uganda or Rwanda. Whether it’s the dense jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda or the misty slopes of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, trekking to see the endangered mountain gorillas is one of the most profound wildlife encounters in the world. This combination offers a powerful contrast: the vast open savannahs seen from above and the intimate, ground-level experience of observing gorillas in their natural rainforest habitat.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Prices in Uganda and Rwanda (Updated Cost Breakdown)

Combine Your Hot Air Balloon Safari with the Majestic Victoria Falls

For the ultimate African adventure, many travelers choose to pair the thrill of a hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti or Masai Mara with a visit to Victoria Falls—one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. After witnessing wildlife from the skies, head south to the Zambia–Zimbabwe border to marvel at the thunderous spectacle of Victoria Falls. Whether you’re cruising the Zambezi River at sunset, swimming at Devil’s Pool, or exploring the lush rainforest trails, this combination offers a perfect blend of aerial safari excitement and natural wonder exploration. With direct regional flights and tailored itineraries from Nextgen Safaris, it’s easier than ever to experience both breathtaking experiences in one unforgettable journey.

FAQs About Hot Air Balloon Safaris in Serengeti and Masai Mara

Understanding what to expect before you book your hot air balloon safari in Africa helps ensure a safe, smooth, and unforgettable journey. Below are answers to the most commonly asked questions by travelers from around the world.

Is a hot air balloon safari in Africa worth it?

Absolutely. A hot air balloon safari offers a completely different perspective of the African wilderness. While game drives keep you on the ground, balloon flights give you a panoramic, 360-degree view of the landscape, herds, rivers, and sunrise — something truly ethereal. The silence, scale, and exclusivity of this experience make it one of the most worthwhile splurges on a safari.

How long does a balloon safari last?

The actual flight time is approximately one hour, depending on wind conditions. However, the whole experience (including hotel pickup, briefing, the flight, champagne bush breakfast, and transfer back) lasts 3–4 hours in total.

How much does a hot air balloon safari cost?

Prices vary slightly by location, operator, and time of year, but you can expect to pay:

• Serengeti: $550 – $650 per person
• Masai Mara: $450 – $550 per person
  This typically includes hotel pickup, flight, breakfast, champagne, and return.

Ask us at Nextgen Safaris for group discounts, seasonal offers, or multi-day safari combos.

Is there an age or weight limit for hot air balloon safaris?

Yes. Most operators require passengers to be at least 7 years old, and some have a weight limit of 120 kg (265 lbs) for safety. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Are hot air balloon safaris safe?

Yes — balloon safaris in both the Serengeti and Masai Mara are conducted by licensed, experienced pilots under strict safety regulations. Operators are required to have safety inspections, insurance, and ground support teams. Weather conditions are assessed every morning to ensure safe flying.

Do balloon safaris run year-round?

Yes, balloon safaris are offered throughout the year. However, the best time to fly depends on the season and wildlife movement. For example, July to October is ideal for Great Migration crossings in the Mara and Northern Serengeti, while December to March offers excellent viewing in Southern Serengeti during calving season.

What should I wear for a balloon safari?

Wear neutral-colored layers, including a light jacket for the early morning chill. Closed shoes are recommended as you’ll be walking on grass and uneven ground during takeoff and landing.

Can I do a hot air balloon safari if I’m afraid of heights?

Many people who fear heights are surprised by how calm and stable the flight feels. Since the basket doesn’t sway like other aircraft and the ascent is smooth, it’s often described as peaceful rather than scary.

Can I book a private balloon safari?

Yes, private balloon safaris can be arranged for couples, families, photographers, or special occasions like anniversaries and proposals. These come at a premium cost but offer total exclusivity.

Is it possible to do a hot air balloon safari on a budget safari trip?

Yes — even on a budget safari, you can book a hot air balloon ride as an optional add-on. Many travelers prefer to save on accommodation and invest in this unique experience.

Ready to Soar? Book Your Hot Air Balloon Safari with Nextgen Safaris

There’s no better way to witness the majesty of Africa than from the sky. Whether it’s gliding over the golden plains of the Serengeti National Park or floating above the lush wildlife havens of the Masai Mara National Reserve, a hot air balloon safari is a bucket-list experience you’ll never forget.

At Nextgen Safaris, we specialize in crafting unforgettable, tailor-made safari journeys — including hot air balloon rides in Serengeti National Park and Masai Mara National Reserve. Our team will:

• Recommend the best location based on your travel dates
• Arrange transfers from your lodge or camp
• Ensure your experience is safe, exclusive, and extraordinary
• Offer group, family, or couple packages to match your needs

Limited slots available daily due to high demand — book early to secure your seat in the sky!

Let’s make your African safari dream take flight.