BALOON SAFARI
Balloon safaris in Tanzania offer a unique and breathtaking way to experience the country’s vast wilderness, particularly in the Serengeti. Floating silently over the savannah at dawn gives you an unparalleled perspective of the wildlife, landscapes, and natural beauty that are harder to appreciate from the ground.
BALLOON SAFARI IN THE SERENGETI
The Serengeti National Park is the most iconic location for balloon safaris in Tanzania, offering a bird’s-eye view of one of the world’s most famous ecosystems. It’s particularly popular during the Great Migration when vast herds of wildebeest and zebras move across the plains in search of fresh grazing land. The entire balloon safari experience uses 45 minutes to 1 hour on air
- Flight Experience:
- Early Morning Departure: The adventure begins before dawn. You are typically picked up from your lodge or camp around 4:00-5:00 a.m. and driven to the launch site in the Serengeti. The early start ensures you catch the first light of day, which is when the landscape is at its most magical.
- Take-Off: As the balloon inflates, you’ll watch the sunrise over the Serengeti’s endless plains, a breathtaking moment that sets the tone for the entire experience.
- In-Flight: Once airborne, you’ll float silently over the Serengeti, guided by the breeze. The height varies throughout the flight – sometimes you’ll hover just above the treetops, and at other times, you’ll ascend higher for panoramic views.
- Best Wildlife Viewing: Expect to see various wildlife from above, including lions, elephants, giraffes, hippos, and even cheetahs if you’re lucky. During the Great Migration, you can witness the awe-inspiring sight of thousands of wildebeest and zebras moving in massive herds below you.
- Landscape: Beyond the animals, the balloon ride offers sweeping views of the Serengeti’s rivers, grasslands, kopjes (rock formations), and acacia-dotted plains. The beauty of the landscape at dawn is simply breathtaking.
- Landing and Champagne Breakfast:
- After an hour of floating over the Serengeti, the balloon lands at a predetermined site. The landing can be a gentle or slightly bumpy affair, depending on wind conditions.
- Upon landing, a Champagne breakfast is served in the bush. The breakfast is typically a lavish spread with fruits, eggs, pastries, and, of course, champagne, offering a luxurious end to the adventure.
- What to Expect and Prepare For
- Early Wake-Up: Be prepared for an early start (before sunrise). It’s essential to get to the launch site in time for the flight.
- Weather: Balloons are sensitive to wind and weather conditions, so safaris are usually conducted early in the morning when the air is calm. Occasionally, flights may be delayed or canceled due to weather.
- Clothing: Since the flight takes place in the early morning, it can be quite chilly before the sun rises, so dressing in layers is recommended. Once the sun is up, temperatures warm up quickly.
- Fitness Level: Balloon safaris are suitable for all ages and require no special physical fitness. However, passengers must be able to stand for the duration of the flight and should be able to climb into the basket (with assistance, if needed).
Other Balloon Safaris
- Tarangire National Park: Known for its massive elephant herds and iconic baobab trees, Tarangire offers a different but equally beautiful balloon safari experience.
- Ruaha National Park: A more remote option, Ruaha provides a wild and off-the-beaten-path experience, with fewer tourists and a more rugged landscape.
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Although less common, ballooning in Ngorongoro can offer stunning views over the crater and its diverse wildlife.
