Imagine floating silently over the endless golden plains of the Serengeti as the sun rises, illuminating the vast landscape below. A hot air balloon safari in Tanzania is one of the most magical ways to experience the African wilderness, offering a unique perspective on the region’s breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife.
Unlike traditional game drives, a hot air balloon safari allows you to:
✔️ See the Serengeti from a new angle – Experience vast herds, meandering rivers, and stunning acacia-dotted landscapes from above.
✔️ Witness the sunrise over the savannah – The colors of dawn create a surreal, picture-perfect experience.
✔️ Spot wildlife undisturbed – Animals behave naturally as they are unaware of your presence.
✔️ Experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure – Few experiences compare to soaring above the Serengeti at sunrise.
Your adventure begins before dawn (around 4:30–5:00 AM). A safari vehicle will pick you up from your lodge or camp and take you to the launch site.
Upon arrival, you’ll receive a safety briefing as you watch the balloon being inflated—a mesmerizing process in itself.
Just as the sun begins to rise, the balloon lifts off, gently ascending into the sky. The flight lasts about 60 minutes, with your pilot adjusting altitude to provide the best views of the wildlife below.
From your vantage point, you might see:
🦁 Lions on an early morning hunt
🦓 Zebra & wildebeest migrating across the plains
🦒 Giraffes gracefully strolling among the acacia trees
🐘 Elephants moving in herds
🐊 Crocodiles basking along the riverbanks
After landing, you’ll be treated to a luxurious champagne breakfast in the middle of the Serengeti—an experience reminiscent of early explorers.
A game drive back to your lodge allows you to continue spotting wildlife on the way.
📍 Serengeti National Park – The most popular destination, especially during the Great Migration.
📍 Tarangire National Park – Famous for its baobab trees and elephant herds.
📍 Ruaha National Park – A remote and exclusive option with stunning landscapes.
📍 Selous Game Reserve – Perfect for those seeking a lesser-known but equally magical experience.
The best time for a hot air balloon safari depends on what you want to see:
✅ Great Migration: June–October (Northern Serengeti) & December–March (Southern Serengeti)
✅ General Wildlife Viewing: Year-round, but dry season (June–October) offers clearer skies and better visibility
While it’s a premium experience, the unparalleled views and unique perspective make it well worth it.
✅ Dress warmly – Early mornings can be chilly, but it warms up quickly.
✅ Bring a camera – A zoom lens is great for capturing wildlife from above.
✅ Book in advance – Spaces are limited, and flights fill up quickly, especially in peak season.
✅ Prepare for an early start – It’s worth it for the incredible sunrise views!
A hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti is more than just an excursion—it’s a breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to add a magical touch to your safari, this experience is unforgettable.
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We are true experts when it comes to Tanzania. We live, work and travel here. Serengeti African Tours arranges lodge and camping safaris, trekking and hiking tours and beach holidays. We carefully select our well-trained guides, drivers, cooks and porters.
