Experience the magic of Africa’s endless plains from a perspective few ever get to witness. A hot air balloon safari in Serengeti National Park is more than just a scenic flight—it’s an awe-inspiring journey above one of the most iconic landscapes on Earth, where nature’s drama unfolds beneath you in stunning, untamed beauty.

Why a Hot Air Balloon Safari in Serengeti is Unforgettable

As dawn breaks over the vast grasslands of Tanzania, the silence of the savannah is gently pierced by the soft roar of a balloon burner. In the dim morning light, the canvas giants inflate, glowing like lanterns in the dark. With the rising sun casting golden hues across the horizon, your balloon begins to ascend—slowly, gracefully—lifting you into the sky for a breathtaking safari unlike any other.

From your basket in the air, the Serengeti opens up in all its grandeur: golden plains, winding rivers, distant acacia trees, and the silhouettes of animals below. Unlike helicopters or fixed-wing aircraft, hot air balloons float serenely and silently, offering a gentler, more immersive vantage point—ideal for photography and intimate wildlife observation.

The Safari Experience: What to Expect

Your journey begins before sunrise. Most balloon safaris pick you up from your lodge or camp—especially if you're staying in the Central Serengeti near the Seronera area or seasonal sites like Ndutu, the Western Corridor, or Northern Serengeti.

Upon arrival at the launch site, you’ll witness the mesmerizing inflation process. The excitement builds as massive balloons come to life with blasts of flame. After a safety briefing from your pilot, you’ll climb into the basket—shared by just a handful of guests—and prepare for liftoff.

The ascent is gentle. Within moments, you’ll find yourself hovering above the treetops, gliding silently with the wind. From this elevated perspective, you'll witness the early stirrings of the savannah. Lions slinking back into shade after a night hunt. Elephants lumbering in herds. Giraffes stretching their long necks toward morning light.

Depending on the season, the Great Wildebeest Migration may unfold beneath you—millions of wildebeest, zebra, and gazelle marching in unison across the Serengeti, a spectacle unmatched in scale or splendor.

As the sun climbs higher, casting long shadows across the plains, the balloon may ascend for a panoramic sweep or drift lower for a closer look at life around waterholes and acacia groves. Highly experienced pilots adjust flight levels based on wind, light, and wildlife visibility to ensure an unforgettable experience.

The one-hour flight concludes with a gentle landing, where a champagne toast and bush breakfast await. Freshly prepared and served in the open savannah, this meal is a celebratory end to your skyborne adventure.

When and Where to Go for a Balloon Safari in Serengeti

Balloon flights operate year-round from several key launch points in Serengeti National Park:

• Central Serengeti (Seronera) – Available all year, ideal for general wildlife sightings and ease of access.
• Ndutu Area (Southern Serengeti) – Best from late December to March, coinciding with the calving season during the Great Migration.
• Western Corridor – Most active from June to October, perfect for migration crossings and river habitats.
• Northern Serengeti (Kogatende area) – Operates from July to October, prime for viewing the Mara River crossings of the wildebeest migration.

Your choice of location should align with your overall Tanzania safari itinerary, especially if witnessing the Great Migration is a priority.

Wildlife Viewing from the Sky

Hot air balloon safaris offer a distinct advantage over ground game drives. The elevated, unobstructed views allow for seamless tracking of large herds and predators alike. Expect to see:

• Wildebeest and zebras (especially during migration seasons)
• Lions, leopards, and hyenas (early morning movement)
• Elephants, giraffes, and buffaloes
• Hippos and crocodiles near rivers
• Rare sightings of nocturnal predators heading back to shelter

Because of the balloon’s quiet motion and ability to hover low, wildlife is often unaware of your presence, giving you a more natural and authentic viewing experience.

Is It Worth the Cost?

While a balloon safari is considered a luxury activity, the experience it offers is unmatched. Prices typically range from $500–$650 USD per person, which includes:

• Pre-dawn hotel pick-up and transfer to launch site
• Safety briefing and one-hour flight
• Champagne toast
• Full English bush breakfast
• Return to your lodge or continuation of your safari

Yes, it’s a splurge—but the unique perspective, peaceful ambiance, and photographic opportunities make it a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The cost also supports a team of professionals including pilots, flight crew, recovery teams, and conservation efforts.