Balloon safaris are a unique way to experience the wilderness of Kenya. The Maasai Mara inspires and amazes you, offering everything you could dream of on a safari—vast grasslands, open savannah, and rich African wildlife. A magical hot air balloon safari is not to be missed! Let yourself be gently carried over the plains as the sun rises and the animals below begin a new day of survival.
WHAT IS A BALLOON SAFARI?
A balloon safari is a balloon flight that takes place in a wilderness area and often includes wildlife viewing. Before the flight, you leave very early, before sunrise, from the camp to the take-off area. Usually, the balloon is filled with hot air at the first rays of sunshine so that it can take off at sunrise.
HOW LONG DOES THE FLIGHT LAST?
The flight covers between 15 and 25 kilometers and lasts about an hour, depending on weather conditions. The entire experience, including transfer to the launch site, flight, breakfast, and safari back to the lodge or camp, begins at 5:00 a.m. and ends at 10:30 a.m.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
PRICE: from $450 per person
AGE & WEIGHT RESTRICTIONS
Children under the age of 3 are not accepted. Although there is no weight limit, if you are above average weight, please let us know in advance so that we can adjust the weight distribution in the basket if necessary.
HOW DOES THE PILOT CONTROL THE BALLOON?
The balloon is carried by the wind, but at different altitudes the wind often blows in different directions; by skillfully navigating this vertical landscape, the pilot finds directional control. To gain or lose altitude, the pilot manipulates the air temperature inside the balloon using butane gas burners.
WHAT CAN BE CARRIED ON A BALLOON SAFARI?
We recommend that you bring binoculars and a camera. It is advisable to wear closed shoes in case you have to walk through grass after landing and to dress in layers for the transition from the cold, dark hours of the early morning to the relatively hot sun of the late morning.
WHAT IS SERVED FOR BREAKFAST?
A typical breakfast menu on a balloon safari consists of the following:
- Champagne
- Fresh juices (mango, passion fruit, orange)
- Kenyan coffee and tea
- Hot chocolate
- Bottled water
- Fresh tropical fruits
- Various cereals and muesli
- Yogurt
- Eggs to order
- Sausages and ham
- Fried mushrooms and tomatoes
- Fresh and toasted bread
- Pancakes
TAKEOFF, LANDING & SAFETY
Takeoff is generally smooth, but can be a little fast in windy conditions. If the wind exceeds 15 knots at the takeoff site, flying will not be possible for safety reasons. Approximately 50% of landings are landings in which the balloon basket drags on the ground for about 20 meters before stopping and settling on its side.
IS IT NECESSARY TO BOOK IN ADVANCE?
We recommend that you book as early as possible to secure your place. There are only a few balloons and, as this is an exclusive activity, places are often unavailable.