Serengeti Balloon Safari
Serengeti Balloon Safari – Travel Guide 2025
Imagine floating high above the African savannah while the golden sun rises over the horizon. Below you, herds of elephants walk quietly, lions stalk through the tall grass, and wildebeest run across the plains. This magical experience is called the Serengeti Balloon Safari, and it’s one of the best ways to enjoy the beauty and wildlife of Tanzania.
In 2025, more travelers are looking for unique and peaceful ways to explore nature. A hot air balloon safari offers just that—a calm, scenic ride over one of Africa’s most famous national parks. It’s perfect for couples, families, or anyone who wants a once-in-a-lifetime safari adventure.
Highlights of a Balloon Safari in Tanzania.
- Witness the Great Migration and diverse wildlife.
- See abundant wildlife in a volcanic caldera.
- Explore wildlife on foot.
- Affordable camps and basic hotels.
- Relax on budget-friendly beaches.
- Meet local tribes like the Maasai.
What Is a Serengeti Balloon Safari?
A Serengeti Balloon Safari is a one-hour hot air balloon ride that takes place early in the morning over the Serengeti National Park in northern Tanzania. Flights usually begin just before sunrise when the weather is calm and the light is soft and golden—perfect for taking photos and spotting wildlife.
The experience starts with an early pick-up from your lodge or camp, followed by a short drive to the launch site. Once the balloon is ready, you’ll climb into the basket and gently rise into the sky. As you float across the landscape, your expert pilot will guide you over rivers, forests, open plains, and rocky hills. After landing, you’ll be treated to a champagne bush breakfast in the middle of the wilderness—a tradition that dates back to the early days of ballooning.
Bird’s-Eye View
You get to see the Serengeti in a way that no car can show you.
No Roads or Restrictions
Unlike jeep safaris, the balloon drifts freely, taking you to untouched areas.
Sunrise Adventure
You fly in the early morning when the sun rises, creating a stunning backdrop.
See More Animals at Once
From above, you can see entire herds of animals moving together across the landscape.
Discover our most popular safaris
Plan Your Perfect Budget-Friendly Serengeti Balloon Safari Package in Tanzania
4 Days Hot Air Balloon Safari In Tanzania
- 4 Days & 3 Nights | Ballo
Starting From
On Request
Per Person On Twin Sharing
4 Day Tanzania Safari: Game Drives and Balloon Safari
- 4 Days & 3Nights | Balloon Safaris
Starting From
On Request
Per Person On Twin Sharing
5 Days Tanzania Budget Safari
- 5 Days & 4 Nights | Budget Safari
Starting From
On Request
Per Person On Twin Sharing
9 Days Serengeti Wildebeest Safari
- 9 Days & 8 Nights | Great Migration Safari
Starting From
On Request
Per Person On Twin Sharing
Where Do Serengeti Balloon Safaris Take Place?
Balloon safaris can be done in different parts of the Serengeti, depending on the time of year and where the animals are. The Serengeti is huge and each area has its own beauty and wildlife highlights.
Central Serengeti (Seronera)
This is the most popular area and offers great wildlife viewing all year. It has many rivers and permanent water sources, so animals are always nearby. You can see lions, leopards, elephants, hippos, and many other animals from above. It’s also a good place to watch parts of the Great Migration during April to June.
Northern Serengeti (Kogatende)
This area is best between July and October when the Great Migration passes through. During these months, you may see thousands of wildebeest crossing the Mara River, with crocodiles waiting below. The scenery here is beautiful, with rocky hills, woodlands, and the river. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who want to see dramatic wildlife moments.
Southern Serengeti (Ndutu and Kusini)
From December to March, this area becomes the center of action. This is the calving season of the wildebeest, when hundreds of thousands of babies are born. Predators like lions, hyenas, and cheetahs follow the herds, looking for easy prey. Balloon flights here offer amazing views of wide open plains filled with life.
When Is the Best Time for a Serengeti Balloon Safari?
Balloon safaris are available year-round, but the best time to go depends on what you want to see. The Serengeti has different seasons, and each one offers something special.
| Season | Months | What You’ll See |
|---|---|---|
| Green Season | April – May | Lush, green landscapes, fewer tourists, dramatic skies |
| Dry Season | June – October | Best for wildlife viewing and river crossings |
| Calving Season | December – March | Wildebeest babies and lots of predator activity |
For those who want to see the Great Migration, the dry season (especially July to September) is ideal. For travelers who love dramatic scenery and baby animals, the green or calving seasons are excellent.
How Much Does a Serengeti Balloon Safari Cost?
A balloon safari is a luxury experience and is priced higher than regular game drives. Most balloon safaris in the Serengeti cost between $550 and $599 per person. While it may seem expensive, the experience includes much more than just the flight.
Here’s what is usually included:
Early morning transfer from your lodge to the balloon launch site
Full safety briefing before the flight
1-hour hot air balloon ride with an expert pilot
A traditional champagne toast after landing
Bush breakfast with hot drinks, fruits, eggs, and more
Return transfer to your camp or continuation of your day’s safari
When you think about everything that’s included, plus the unforgettable views and peaceful experience, many travelers find it well worth the cost.
We've got you covered
Our tours are top-notch but give you great value. The price we tell you upfront covers most of the costs for one person, like flights and all transfers.
Includes
- Park fees
- All activities (unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
- Air Ambulance Service by AMREF Flying Doctors;
Excludes
- International flights (from/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips to your safari guide ($30-50 per day per car).
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
- Alcohol drinks
- Visas and visa fees where relevant
- Additional activities not offered as scheduled by the accommodation
- Lunch and dinner in hotel (only before and after safari);
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Get a free Serengeti balloon safari quote—no obligations whatsoever! Plan your adventure at your own pace with expert guidance, no pressure.
What to Expect on the Day of Your Balloon Safari
Here’s a simple guide to what your day will look like:
🌅 1. Very Early Start
You’ll be picked up from your lodge between 4:30 and 5:00 AM. It’s still dark outside, but this timing is important so you can take off before sunrise.
🎈 2. Arrival at the Launch Site
You’ll arrive to see the balloon being inflated. It’s an amazing sight—big flames lighting up the sky as the balloon fills with hot air. You’ll also meet your pilot and team here.
🚀 3. Safety Briefing and Take-Off
The pilot will explain the safety rules, how to enter the basket, and what to expect during landing. Then it’s time to climb in and lift off gently into the sky.
🌍 4. Enjoy the Flight
You’ll float over the Serengeti for about one hour. The pilot will point out animals and interesting sights. Every flight is different depending on the wind direction.
🥂 5. Landing and Bush Breakfast
After landing, you’ll be greeted by a team and served a full English breakfast under a tree or tent. There’s fresh fruit, eggs, sausages, toast, juice, and even champagne.
🚙 6. Drive Back or Continue Safari
After breakfast, you can return to your lodge or continue your safari with a game drive in the park.
Who Can Join a Balloon Safari?
Balloon safaris are open to most travelers, but there are a few simple rules for safety.
✅ Good For:
Adults of all ages
Children over 7 years old (minimum height usually required)
Travelers in good general health
❌ Not Good For:
Children under 7 years old
Pregnant women
People with serious back, hip, or leg problems
If you’re unsure whether you can join, just ask your safari planner or doctor before booking. It’s always best to be safe.
What to Pack for a Balloon Safari
Because the flight happens early in the morning, the weather is often cold at first. Later, it gets warmer. Here’s what we recommend bringing:
Warm jacket or fleece (especially in June–August)
Hat and sunglasses for after sunrise
Comfortable closed shoes (no sandals or flip-flops)
Camera or smartphone for photos
Binoculars (optional but helpful)
Small backpack with water, tissues, or snacks
You don’t need to bring a lot—just a few essentials for comfort and fun.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Serengeti Balloon Safari
Book Early
Balloon safaris have limited space. There are only a few balloons each day, so book early to avoid missing out—especially during peak months.Ask About Locations
Depending on the season, ask your safari company which area is best for a balloon safari. Some places have better views and more animals at certain times of year.Charge Your Camera
Bring a fully charged camera or phone with enough storage. A balloon safari gives you amazing photo opportunities you don’t want to miss.Wear Layers
Mornings can be cold, but it warms up quickly after sunrise. Dress in layers so you can stay comfortable throughout the flight.Relax and Enjoy
Don’t worry about taking the perfect photo. Sometimes, the best way to enjoy a balloon safari is to put the camera down and just look around.
Experiences to Explore in Serengeti National Park
Activities In Serengeti National Park
Best Time to Go on a Serengeti Balloon Safari
Serengeti balloon safaris operate all year, but the best time depends on what you want to see:
Great Migration (June to October)
This is the best time to witness millions of wildebeest and zebras moving across the plains. As the herds travel through different regions of the Serengeti, you can see dramatic river crossings and large predator activity from the air.
Green Season (November to May)
The Serengeti transforms into a lush green paradise with fewer tourists. This period is also the calving season, making it a fantastic time to see baby animals and predator action.
Year-Round Beauty
No matter when you visit, the Serengeti always offers breathtaking views and incredible wildlife. From elephants and giraffes to lions and cheetahs, every flight is a new adventure.
Dry Season vs. Wet Season
The Serengeti transforms into a lush green paradise with fewer tourists. This period is also the calving season, making it a fantastic time to see baby animals and predator action.
How Does a Balloon Safari Work? (Step-by-Step Experience)
A balloon safari offers a unique way to experience the wildlife and landscapes from above, giving you breathtaking views. The journey involves a pre-dawn launch, a peaceful flight over the savannah, and a smooth landing followed by a celebratory toast.
Early Morning Pickup: A safari vehicle picks you up from your lodge or camp before sunrise.
Arriving at the Launch Site: The balloon crew prepares the balloon while you receive a safety briefing.
Takeoff: The balloon rises gently into the air as the sun begins to rise.
Flight Over the Serengeti: You float over the savannah, watching animals in their natural habitat.
Landing: The balloon slowly descends, and the pilot finds a safe landing spot.
Champagne Breakfast: After landing, you celebrate with a special bush breakfast in the wild.
Where Do Serengeti Balloon Safaris Take Place?
Balloon safaris in the Serengeti offer an incredible way to see the park from a bird’s-eye view, and different regions of the Serengeti offer unique experiences. Here are the key areas where balloon safaris take place:
Central Serengeti (Seronera): This region is the heart of the Serengeti and offers some of the best wildlife viewing all year round. Known for its open grasslands and abundant wildlife, it’s the perfect place for seeing the big cats like lions, cheetahs, and leopards, as well as herds of elephants and buffalo. The Central Serengeti is ideal for visitors looking to see a wide variety of animals at any time of the year. The flight over this area offers panoramic views of the plains, dotted with wildlife.
Western Corridor: The Western Serengeti is famous for its dramatic river crossings during the Great Migration. If you’re visiting between July and October, this region offers some of the best opportunities to witness the iconic wildebeest and zebra crossing the Grumeti River in massive numbers. From the air, you can watch the river crossings in all their glory, along with the predators that often lie in wait. This is an extraordinary experience for anyone wanting to see the migration up close from above.
Northern Serengeti: The Northern Serengeti, especially near the Mara River, is another key location for witnessing the Great Migration, particularly the dramatic river crossings as wildebeest and other animals cross into Kenya’s Maasai Mara. This area is most active between July and October when the migration is in full swing. A balloon safari in the Northern Serengeti gives you the chance to see this awe-inspiring event from a bird’s-eye view, with the Mara River as the backdrop.
Southern Serengeti: The Southern Serengeti is particularly popular during the calving season, which typically occurs from January to March. This is when thousands of wildebeest give birth to their calves, and the plains are teeming with new life. The southern region is known for its abundance of newborn animals, as well as the predators that come to hunt. A balloon safari over this area provides spectacular views of the plains filled with baby animals and their protective herds. It’s a prime time to see the circle of life unfold in one of the most beautiful and dynamic landscapes in the world.
Each of these regions offers a unique perspective on the Serengeti’s wildlife and landscapes, making a balloon safari in the park a truly unforgettable experience
What Animals Can You See from a Hot Air Balloon?
From the sky, you can see a wide variety of animals, including:
Big Five: Lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos.
Great Migration Herds: Wildebeests and zebras moving in large numbers.
Other Wildlife: Giraffes, cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, hyenas, and many bird species.
How Much Does a Serengeti Balloon Safari Cost?
Balloon safaris are a premium experience and cost between $500 to $600 per person. The price includes:
A one-hour balloon flight
Safety briefing and pilot guidance
Champagne toast after landing
A bush breakfast in the Serengeti
Is a Balloon Safari Safe?
Yes, balloon safaris in the Serengeti are very safe.
Pilots are highly trained and experienced.
Balloons are checked daily for safety.
Flights only take place in good weather conditions.
What to Wear for a Serengeti Balloon Safari
Since balloon safaris happen early in the morning, it is important to dress properly:
Wear Layers: It is cool in the morning but warms up later.
Comfortable Shoes: You may walk a little before and after the flight.
Hat and Sunglasses: The sun can be bright after sunrise.
Serengeti Balloon Safari Package
Seko Tours offers different balloon safari packages to fit your needs. Each package includes:
Hotel/Lodge Pickup and Drop-Off: Early morning pickup from your accommodation.
One-Hour Balloon Flight: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Serengeti from the sky.
Champagne Celebration: A traditional toast after landing.
Full Bush Breakfast: A delicious meal in the wild.
Professional Pilot and Crew: Experienced team ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
Government Fees and Taxes: No hidden costs – everything is included in the price.
Packages start from $500 per person, and availability is limited, so booking in advance is recommended.
How to Book a Serengeti Balloon Safari
Since balloon safaris have limited space, it is best to book early, especially during peak seasons. You can book through a safari operator, your lodge, or a travel agent specializing in Tanzania safaris.
Feature Travel Tips
See Our Basic Tanzania Travel Info
Popular questions about Serengeti Balloon Safari
A Serengeti balloon safari is a unique experience where you ride in a hot air balloon over the Serengeti National Park, giving you an aerial view of the stunning wildlife and landscapes.
The best time for a balloon safari depends on what you want to see. The Great Migration (June to October) is ideal for witnessing river crossings, while the Green Season (November to May) offers lush landscapes and calving season.
The cost for a Serengeti balloon safari ranges from $500 to $600 per person, which includes the one-hour flight, safety briefing, champagne toast after landing, and a bush breakfast.
Yes, balloon safaris in the Serengeti are very safe. Pilots are highly trained and balloons are checked daily for safety. Flights are only conducted in favorable weather conditions.
The balloon flight typically lasts around one hour. The entire experience, including pickup, safety briefing, and bush breakfast, usually takes about 3 to 4 hours.
From the sky, you can see a wide variety of animals including the Big Five (lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos), wildebeests, zebras, giraffes, cheetahs, and many bird species.
Balloon safaris are offered in several regions of the Serengeti, including Central Serengeti, Western Corridor, Northern Serengeti, and Southern Serengeti, each offering a different wildlife experience.
You can book a Serengeti balloon safari through a safari operator, your lodge, or a travel agent. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, as space is limited.
Dress in layers as mornings can be cool, but it warms up quickly after sunrise. Wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
Children are welcome, but they must be at least 6 years old to participate in a balloon safari for safety reasons.
The safari begins early in the morning, usually before sunrise, to catch the breathtaking views of the Serengeti at dawn.
A standard Serengeti balloon can hold 8 to 16 passengers depending on the size of the balloon. Smaller groups are more common for an intimate experience.
Yes, there is usually a weight limit for safety reasons. The typical weight limit is around 100 kg (220 lbs) per person, but this can vary depending on the balloon operator.
Yes, you are encouraged to take photos during the balloon ride. The aerial views of wildlife and the landscape offer fantastic photo opportunities.
After landing, you will enjoy a champagne breakfast in the wild, where you can relax and celebrate the unique experience you just had.
Yes, Serengeti balloon safaris operate all year round. However, the experience varies depending on the season, with different wildlife events like the Great Migration or calving season offering unique sights.
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