Experience the magic of a hot air balloon safari in Tanzania
If there is one experience that makes your safari truly spectacular, it is a hot air balloon safari. Picture yourself floating quietly, watching the wilderness from a bird’s-eye perspective. As the sun rises, the savannah plains come alive with wild animals starting a new day. Soak in 360 degree, unparalleled views, marveling at each sight unfolding beneath you. It is a safari experience that you will never forget.
What to expect on a hot air balloon ride in Tanzania?
Early in the morning a balloon safari representative will meet you at your lodge. This can be at 05.00 am or even earlier, depending on where you are staying. Together you will head to the launch site. As you journey through the wilderness, keep an eye out for nocturnal animals – it basically gives you a complimentary night game drive!
At the launch site, the massive balloon will be inflated and you will be briefed on the do’s and don’ts for your flight. Take a seat in the basket and then it is time to relax and simply enjoy! Take off at sunrise and gently drift above the rugged wilderness, while taking in breathtaking views from above. The balloon can glide right over treetops or above a river, offering perspectives you would never get from a safari vehicle. This offers you a truly unique vantage point of the wildlife below and maybe even of the Great Wildebeest Migration.
Each hot air balloon accommodates up to 16 passengers. However, the captain ensures that the basket gently rotates, providing everyone with uninterrupted, breathtaking views. You will travel wherever the wind leads you, making each journey a delightful surprise as to where you might land.
Champagne celebration and bush breakfast
After an hour of floating above the bush, your captain will gently land the balloon. With both feet back on the ground, a festive welcome awaits with a bottle of champagne, honoring the age-old tradition. Champagne has never tasted so good at this early hour!
After your toast you will head for a sumptuous English breakfast in the middle of the bush. It is the perfect way to end your balloon experience in style, before meeting up with your Ajabu Adventures guide around 10 am to continue your unforgettable journey through the wilderness.
Best place and time for a Tanzania balloon safari
A hot air balloon flight is definitely a once in a lifetime experience. But if you do it, the Serengeti is arguably the most scenic place for such a balloon ride.
In the heart of the Serengeti, Seronera offers year-round balloon flights over some of Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife. It’s an excellent spot to observe big cats and fly right over the hippo pool. In April-June and in November, you may also catch the sight of the Great Migration passing through.
From mid December till March the southern part of the Serengeti (Ndutu) is the best location to witness the Wildebeest Migration. The millions of wildebeests and zebras also attract a lot of predators. The landscape here ranges from open plains to forested areas, with Lake Ndutu and Lake Masek adding to the scenic diversity. Keep in mind that weather conditions can be less stable here than in the central Serengeti.
From July till October, northern Serengeti is the place to be if you wish to see the Migration. Flying high above the Mara river is an absolute highlight, before descending to glide low over the herds of wildebeest grazing on the lush plains.”
Balloon flights are also possible in Tarangire and Ruaha National Park.
Why a balloon safari experience is worth every cent
Yes, it is true, a hot air balloon safari can be expensive. But is it worth it? Absolutely 100%! Words cannot describe the feeling of being in the balloon – the sense of freedom, the overwhelming beauty… A hot air balloon safari offers a completely unique perspective on your adventure, creating memories that will last a lifetime.