Where can I fly by hot air balloon on safari?

Serengeti flights run year round near Seronera with seasonal sites in Ndutu, the Western Corridor and the north. The Masai Mara launches near leading camps, and Namibia’s Sossusvlei area offers desert flights near Sesriem and Kulala Desert Lodge.

What happens on the day?

Early pick up before sunrise, a safety briefing and a 45 to 60 minute flight with birds-eye views. After landing, enjoy a celebratory bush breakfast before continuing your safari day.

Is ballooning weather dependent?

Yes. Flights only operate in safe conditions and may be delayed or cancelled for wind. We always hold a back up morning when possible.

What should I wear or bring?

Closed shoes, a hat and layers for the cool dawn. Cameras are easy to use from the basket. We provide exact guidance with your booking.

Yes, subject to age and height limits per operator. Private baskets are available on request and we tailor transfers for a smooth morning.

Hot Air Balloon Safaris

Colorful hot air balloon above Sossusvlei, Namibia scenic desert safari at dawn

A hot air balloon safari is Africa at its most magical. Drift silently above the Masai Mara from Angama Mara or Bateleur Camp as wildebeest stir below, or rise over Sossusvlei’s dunes from Kulala Desert Lodge. From Serengeti Under Canvas, the golden plains unfold endlessly beneath your wicker basket.

Plan Your Journey

Hot air balloon basket ready at Little Kulala, Sossusvlei dunes sunrise - Namibia desert flight

Dawn Above the Wild

The day begins in hushed anticipation. At Namiri Plains, balloons glow against the first light as guests climb aboard. Slowly ascending, the Serengeti spreads into a tapestry of rivers, acacia, and roaming herds. In Tarangire, Oliver’s Camp pairs flights with bush breakfasts, the scent of fresh coffee drifting across the savanna.

QUICK FACTS
Sunrise liftoff
Birds-eye views
Silent flight
Bush breakfasts
Photographic haven

Balloon sailing low over Kenya's Mara River and riverine forest â€“ wildlife panorama

Balloon launch near Chem Chem, Tanzania - Great Rift Valley scenery and baobab plains

Experiences & Highlights

Ballooning adds a calm, unforgettable perspective to safari days. In the Serengeti, early launches near camps such as Sayari, Dunia or Namiri Plains lift you above plains where giraffe and buffalo cast long shadows at dawn. Pilots drift with the breeze, adjusting height for sweeping views or closer looks at herds, before a gentle landing and a celebratory bush breakfast. In the Masai Mara, Angama Mara, Bateleur Camp and Serian The Original pair morning flights with big game viewing later in the day.

Namibia offers a different mood with Sossusvlei Desert Lodge and Kulala Desert Lodge arranging desert flights over glowing dunes and ancient riverbeds. Teams handle transfers, timing and safety checks, and flights are scheduled for the softest light when the air is still. Weather can shift plans, so an extra morning helps. Cameras are easy to use from the basket and guides help position for photographs once back on the ground. The result is a seamless blend of gentle adventure and classic safari.

CUSTOMISE YOUR JOURNEY.

Talk to us to customise your journey

Journey Inspiration.

Desert Horizons, Sossusvlei to the Kunene

Quick View

Desert Horizons, Sossusvlei to the Kunene

$695.00

*Indicative of per person sharing/night. Subject to availability, season, reserve fees, and exclusive of seasonal flight transfers

Trace Namibia’s desert spine from Sossusvlei’s apricot dunes to Palmwag’s rhino country and the far Kunene River. Stay at intimate camps, use the private Kulala gate for quiet dune hours, track black rhino with Save the Rhino Trust, then drift the Kunene between golden dunes and Angola’s mountains. Quiet luxury, starry nights, effortless light aircraft links.

Highlights/Activities

Private Kulala gate to Sossusvlei and Deadvlei, sunrise and sunset dune outings, e-bike rides, rooftop sleep outs, guided night walks, Sesriem Canyon stop, black rhino tracking with Save the Rhino Trust, nature drives in Palmwag, desert adapted elephant and giraffe sightings, stargazing, scenic light aircraft sectors, Kunene River boating when water levels allow, quad bike outings, guided walks, respectful Himba cultural visit, pool time with desert views.

Countries Covered: Namibia

Remote Adventure: A Safari Across Zambia & Zimbabwe

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Remote Adventure: A Safari Across Zambia & Zimbabwe

$1,230.00

*Indicative of per person sharing/night. Subject to availability, season, reserve fees, and exclusive of seasonal flight transfers

Journey deep into Africa’s wildest corners on this exclusive 9-night safari through Zambia and Zimbabwe. From the predator-rich Busanga Plains to Hwange’s vast elephant herds and the riverside beauty of Mana Pools, experience remote landscapes, exceptional wildlife, and intimate luxury camps in complete seclusion.

Highlights/Activities

Busanga Plains game drives, lion and cheetah tracking, Hwange elephant herds, walking safaris, night drives, birdwatching, Mana Pools canoeing, Zambezi River sunsets, alfresco dining under the stars, seasonal hot air ballooning, catch-and-release fishing, expert-guided wildlife encounters, intimate tented accommodations

Countries Covered: Zambia, Zimbabwe

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Tanzania Luxury "Slow Safari" Experience - Up Close and Immersive

$1,660.00

*Indicative of per person sharing/night. Subject to availability, season, reserve fees, and exclusive of seasonal flight transfers

Embrace Tanzania’s ultimate “slow safari” across Arusha, Lake Manyara, Tarangire, and the Serengeti. From elegant garden cottages to exclusive tented suites under ancient baobabs and the vast Serengeti plains, this journey offers private guides, immersive walking safaris, hot air balloon rides, and intimate wildlife encounters. A deeply luxurious, authentic safari for travelers seeking space, connection, and raw African beauty.

Highlights/Activities

Private safari guides and vehicles, walking safaris, hot air balloon experiences, exclusive tented camps, immersive wildlife encounters, big tuskers of Tarangire, Great Migration river crossings, cultural visits to Maasai communities, alfresco bush dining, spa treatments, private picnics under baobabs, photography hides, butler service, children’s safari activities, secluded locations, no crowds, Serengeti lion sightings