Flying over a game reserve in a hot air balloon sounds like something straight out of a dream, and this tour makes that dream come true—without you even needing wings. While we haven’t personally floated above Pilanesberg, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a truly special experience.
What we love most? The chance to see Africa’s Big Five from the sky, the engaging commentary from knowledgeable pilots, and the lovely combination of adventure with a luxurious breakfast. A small downside is that the experience is highly weather-dependent, which can mean cancellations if the weather doesn’t cooperate.
This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to combine wildlife spotting with a unique, peaceful flight. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate authentic experiences, stunning scenery, and a touch of glamour.
Key Points
- Aerial Views of the Big Five: See lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo from above.
- Sunrise Over Pilanesberg: Experience the park waking up in the early morning light.
- Expert Guides & Commentary: Pilots like Japie and Harman are praised for their knowledge and professionalism.
- Luxurious Finish: Toast with sparkling wine and enjoy a full English breakfast afterward.
- Inclusive Pricing: Park fees and transportation included, adding to the convenience.
- Weather Dependency: Cancellations happen if the weather isn’t suitable, so flexibility is essential.
An Overview of the Experience
The hot air balloon safari at Pilanesberg is a carefully curated blend of adventure, wildlife observation, and comfort. Starting early—around 4 am—you’ll be picked up from select Sun City hotels, setting the tone for an exclusive, hassle-free experience. The roughly five-hour tour includes pre-flight preparations, the flight itself, and a breakfast celebration afterward.
Looking for more options in North West? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Flight Over Pilanesberg National Park
Flying during sunrise is an incredible way to observe the park as it begins to stir. From the basket, you’ll glide silently over the landscape, with only the occasional burst of flame from the pilot’s burner breaking the serenity. The views are central to why this tour is so well-loved: vast open plains, lakes, and clusters of animals all become part of your panorama, with some reviewers noting their ability to spot the Big Five from the air—a feat sometimes harder to see during ground safaris.
Reviewers frequently mention how the knowledgeable pilots enhance the experience. Japie, Harman, and Mark are among the pilots praised for their friendly, informative commentary, making you feel safe while learning interesting facts about the park’s flora and fauna. The aerial perspective gives a unique, unobstructed view of animals like giraffes, zebras, and rhinos, often spotted in their natural habitat from a height that offers both perspective and tranquility.
The Landing & Breakfast Experience
The landing is described as smooth, with some reviewers noting that the crew takes extra care to ensure safety and comfort. Once on the ground, the celebration begins with a glass of sparkling wine—a traditional toast to a successful flight.
The breakfast that follows is often highlighted as a standout feature. Guests are welcomed at a private lodge, where they enjoy a hearty full English breakfast—think eggs, bacon, sausages, toast, and perhaps some traditional South African touches—paired with more bubbly if desired. This relaxing meal allows everyone to share their stories from above, often with stunning photos in hand.
The Logistics & Practicalities
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from select hotels, which is a real plus for convenience. The national park fees are also covered, saving travelers the hassle of additional costs. The entire experience lasts around 5 hours, with approximately 45-60 minutes in the air—a perfect window that balances excitement with comfort.
However, it’s worth noting that a minimum of four people is required for the flight to proceed, and all passengers need to be taller than 1.2 meters for safety reasons. The early start time means you’ll need to be prepared for cold mornings, especially in winter, but most travelers find the experience well worth the early wake-up.
What Sets This Tour Apart
One of the biggest draws is the combination of aerial wildlife viewing and a luxurious breakfast, creating a special kind of safari that’s both exciting and relaxing. Several reviews mention how the crew, including guides like Tony and Harman, go out of their way to make the experience memorable, offering insightful commentary that enhances the sense of connection to the landscape.
The quality of the guides and pilots is repeatedly praised—reviewers say they come across as professional, friendly, and extremely knowledgeable. This adds a layer of confidence and enjoyment, especially during the takeoff, flight, and landing phases.
The views from the air are often described as breathtaking, with some reviewers stating they saw a variety of animals traveling across the park or resting beside waterholes. The silence of the balloon ride, broken only by the pilot’s explanations, makes for a peaceful yet awe-inspiring experience.
Authentic Experiences & Authentic Guests
Guests often share that the post-flight breakfast is not just a meal but a celebration, with sparkling wine and a relaxed atmosphere where everyone can swap stories. Some mention going to a nearby resort hotel after the flight for the breakfast, which adds a touch of luxury to an already memorable day.
The reviews highlight the value of the experience, especially considering that park fees and transportation are included in the price. While $346.31 may seem steep, many feel the exclusivity, the chance to see wildlife from above, and the beautiful scenery justify the cost.
A handful of reviews mention weather cancellations, which can be disappointing, but it’s clear that the operators prioritize safety and will rebook or refund if conditions aren’t suitable. This transparency means you need to be flexible and patient, especially during seasons with unpredictable weather.
Detailed Itinerary Breakdown
Early Morning Pickup and Prep
Your day starts before dawn with hotel pickup—most likely around 4 am—giving you plenty of time to arrive at the launch site as the first light appears. Reviewer Clive D mentions Greg, the driver, was fun and friendly, making the early start more bearable.
Launch and Flight
You’ll witness the preparation of the balloons, a spectacle in itself, as the crew lays out the vibrant envelopes. The quiet anticipation builds as everyone climbs into the basket. The actual flight, lasting about 45-60 minutes, offers unparalleled views of the park’s landscape and wildlife.
Reviewers like Raymond F rave about the weather, noting that perfect conditions make for an incredible experience, with one even describing the flight as “life-changing.” Others mention the importance of dress—wear warm clothes since it’s early morning and open-sided baskets can get chilly.
Touchdown and Celebration
After landing, the crew’s professionalism shines. The champagne toast is a traditional highlight, with guests often describing it as a joyful, celebratory moment. Many also mention that guides are eager to share their knowledge, pointing out animals and explaining their behavior from the air.
Post-Flight Breakfast
The final part of the journey is a hearty breakfast at a nearby private lodge. This setting offers a relaxed environment to unwind, share photos, and reflect on the flight. Several guests note how the breakfast, paired with more champagne or coffee, makes the entire experience feel luxurious and well-rounded.
Value and Practical Considerations
While the price of around $346 might seem high for a 45-60 minute flight, the value lies in the inclusive nature—park fees, transportation, champagne, and breakfast are all part of the package. The experience offers a rare perspective of Pilanesberg, which is known for being home to the Big Five, and the chance to see animals from above adds a layer of excitement that ground safaris often can’t match.
That said, the experience is weather-dependent, which can lead to cancellations. Several reviewers have experienced cancellations due to weather, with some waiting days or needing to reschedule. Flexibility and patience are key if weather conditions aren’t perfect during your intended dates.
The group size can go up to 80 people, but most reviews suggest that the actual flight is intimate enough for guests to feel comfortable, especially with pilot commentary and crew support.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This tour is ideal for adventure seekers who want more than just a game drive—those who crave a peaceful, scenic, and exclusive perspective on African wildlife. It’s also a fantastic choice for romantic couples, families with older children (over 1.2 meters tall), and anyone wanting a memorable, photo-worthy experience.
If you’re someone who values professional guides, luxury touches like champagne and breakfast, and a unique view of Africa’s Big Five, this tour checks all the boxes. However, if you’re on a tight schedule or are highly weather-sensitive, it’s wise to keep flexible plans or alternatives in mind.
The Sum Up
The Hot Air Balloon Safari at Pilanesberg offers a genuinely special way to see South Africa’s wildlife and landscapes from a peaceful altitude. The combination of expert-guided flights, stunning vistas, and a hearty breakfast makes it more than just a flight—it’s an evocative, memorable experience that captures the essence of African adventure.
This tour is especially perfect for travelers who enjoy unique perspectives, luxury touches, and learning from passionate guides. It’s an investment in one of the most scenic, tranquil safaris you can imagine, provided the weather cooperates.
If you’re after a once-in-a-lifetime experience that marries wildlife, scenery, and serenity, this balloon safari deserves a spot on your South African bucket list.
FAQ
How early do I need to wake up for this tour?
You’ll be picked up around 4 am, so be prepared for an early start, but it’s worth the breathtaking sunrise and cooler morning temperatures.
Are children allowed on this tour?
Yes, children can participate as long as they are taller than 1.2 meters and are accompanied by an adult.
What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions aren’t suitable, the tour is likely to be canceled. You’ll either be rebooked for another day or receive a full refund.
Does the price include park fees and transportation?
Yes, both the national park fees and round-trip transportation from select hotels are included in the price.
How long does the entire experience last?
From hotel pickup to drop-off, expect about 5 hours, with the flight itself lasting approximately 45-60 minutes.
What should I wear?
Dress warmly, especially in winter, as mornings can be chilly before sunrise. The baskets are open-sided, so layers are advised.
Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, a minimum of four people is required for the flight to go ahead.
Can I book this last minute?
Although most travelers book about 56 days in advance, last-minute availability depends on weather and group size.
Whether you’re after a peaceful glide over wild landscapes or a stunning photo opportunity, the Pilanesberg hot air balloon safari offers a remarkable way to connect with Africa’s nature from above.