A Guide To Hot Air Balloon Safaris In Africa

A Guide To Hot Air Balloon Safaris In Africa

Thought that nothing could beat the thrill of being in a safari vehicle as it bounds along in search of the resident wildlife? Or the excitement that comes with being on foot tracking the game through the bush? Or the pleasure gained from cruising down the waters on one of Africa’s finest rivers? Think again – think hot air balloon safari.

There really is nothing to compare to soaring effortlessly across bright blue skies in a hot air balloon, soaking up the majestic views and looking down onto the action as the wildlife below carries on blissfully with its daily routines. 

What is involved in a hot air balloon safari?

An early start is inevitable, waking in darkness for a quick tea or coffee before travelling to the launch site where your balloon is slowly readied for take off. After climbing into the wicker basket things go dramatically skyward as you rise up and over the grounds below. From the safety of your reed cocoon you will witness Africa like never before – animals massing below, villagers slowly moving across the terrain, a wisp of smoke rising from a hut. After taking numerous photos and filling multiple memory cards, it’s time for a soft landing and a hearty breakfast, often accompanied by a glass of something fizzy to help celebrate such an auspicious occasion.

Where to enjoy an African hot air balloon safari?

Africa is the perfect destination to take to the skies – blessed as the continent is with spectacular vistas and sights. The ballooning bucket list destinations in Africa are really Kenya & Tanzania. In Kenya the ballooning action centres around the iconic Masai Mara, but in Tanzania balloonophiles can get their fill with a Serengeti balloon safari, or enjoy the experience in Ruaha and now also the Tarangire National Parks. Those travelling elsewhere in East Africa can get high with a Rwanda balloon safari in the Akagera National Park, and in the Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda.

Further south, visitors to Kafue can enjoy the delights of a Zambian hot air balloon ride, whilst Botswana’s Okavango Delta & the sand dunes of Namibia will never look better than from the basket of a balloon.

Finally, South Africa has a whole host of locations from which to get a bird’s eye view and enjoy a hot air balloon safari - safari lovers should head to the Mabula Private Game Reserve, culture vultures to the Cradle of Humankind, and wine-lovers to Stellenbosch.

Why book your African hot air balloon safari with Africa Travel?

With over 30 years’ experience in creating dream trips to Africa, there is no one more qualified to organise an unforgettable balloon safari in this iconic continent than Africa Travel. We have a wealth of specialist resources to help you book your perfect hot air balloon ride and as all of our staff have travelled the continent and enjoyed balloon safaris themselves you can trust that our personal recommendations will deliver the holiday you have always longed for. We even have staff living in Africa to ensure your trip runs as smoothly as possible.

Our years of knowledge mean that we can give personalised recommendations for your trip, including the best time of year to take a Serengeti balloon safari, the best safari camp to stay at when booking a Masai Mara hot air balloon ride, and the best balloon safari guides and experts to assist you.