Imagine soaring quietly above one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes as the first light of dawn paints the plains in gold and pink. That’s what this Serengeti Balloon Safari promises—a blend of breathtaking views, expert-guided wildlife spotting, and a delicious breakfast in the bush. With a perfect 5.0 rating from thousands of travelers, this experience isn’t just a photo op; it’s a full-on immersion into the magic of the Serengeti from a perspective few get to enjoy.
What makes this tour special? For starters, the professional pilots, like Captain Kevin and Captain Jeff, who have flown since the 1970s and bring a mix of seasoned expertise and humor. Add to that the luxurious bush breakfast under an acacia tree, often praised for its top-quality food and seamless organization, and you’ve got a memorable morning adventure. The stunning sunrises, combined with wildlife sightings—elephants, zebras, hippos—are enough to make anyone’s Instagram feed pop. However, a possible consideration is the price: at $550 per person, it’s an investment, but one that many believe offers excellent value for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
This tour suits travelers craving extraordinary views, wildlife lovers eager for a new perspective, and anyone wanting a luxurious start to their Serengeti adventure. If you’re after a family-friendly, well-organized, and highly praised safari experience, this is an excellent choice. Just remember to book well in advance—most travelers plan around 55 days ahead—to secure a spot during peak months.
Key Points
- Unmatched Views: Float silently over the Serengeti at sunrise for a perspective on wildlife and landscape that’s hard to beat.
- Expert Guides: Pilots like Kevin, Jeff, and Mohamed are highly experienced, making safety and wildlife spotting a top priority.
- Luxury & Authenticity: After the flight, enjoy a gourmet bush breakfast featuring high-quality food in a stunning natural setting.
- Flexible Itineraries: Different routes cater to various seasons and regions (Kogatende, Ndutu, Seronera, Grumeti River), offering diverse scenery and wildlife experiences.
- Great reviews: Consistently near-perfect ratings, with travelers emphasizing the organization, views, and special touches like champagne toasts.
- Group Size & Timing: Limited to 16 people, with early morning departures around 5:00 am, making it a serene, intimate experience.
What to Expect from the Serengeti Balloon Safari
Looking for more options in Serengeti? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Start with an Early Pickup
Most tours kick off at around 5:00 am. Transportation from your lodge or camp is usually included, ensuring a smooth start. The early wake-up is well worth it—think about catching the sunrise from the skies, which is arguably the most spectacular time to witness the Serengeti.
Pre-Flight Briefing and Launch
At the launch site, you’ll get a safety briefing, along with warm drinks like ginger tea and coffee to help shake off the early chill. The pilots, such as Kevin or Mohamed, will share insights about what to expect, and many guests comment on how professional and friendly the crew is. The atmosphere is relaxed but organized, with a focus on safety and enjoyment.
The Flight Itself
Flights last for approximately 1 hour, but with the entire experience including preparations, it spans about 5 hours. The pilots are highly skilled, with experience dating back to the 1970s, and will adjust the route based on wind conditions. This unpredictability adds to the adventure—sometimes the basket skims just above the grass, other times it climbs high enough to give a broad view of the plains and wildlife below.
Wildlife & Landscape
While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, many travelers report seeing elephants, zebras, hippos, and even predators like lions, depending on the season and route. Reviewers note that the flight paths—whether over Kogatende, Ndutu, Seronera, or Grumeti River—offer varied scenery, from lush lakes to expansive plains and river crossings.
Post-Flight Celebration & Breakfast
After landing, many guests toast with champagne—an age-old tradition—and then enjoy a hearty bush breakfast under a shady acacia tree. The food is often described as scrumptious, and the experience of dining in the middle of the wilderness adds a special touch. Reviewers frequently mention the professionalism of staff and the quality of the meal, which turns a simple breakfast into a memorable event.
The Different Regional Experiences
- Kogatende (June to November): Known for its lush landscapes and river crossings, this area is a hotspot for wildebeest migration. Expect sweeping plains and abundant wildlife.
- Ndutu (Mid-December to March): Famous for the calving season of the migration, offering stunning views of herds and predator activity.
- Seronera (All year-round): Central Serengeti, with a mix of plains and woodland, providing diverse scenery and wildlife sightings.
- Grumeti River (June to October): Known for river crossings and large herds, making it a spectacular area for sightings.
Group Size & Timing
Limited to 16 guests, the tour offers an intimate experience with plenty of space for everyone to enjoy the views and take photos. The early start at around 5:00 am means you’ll beat the crowds and witness the Serengeti waking up. Many reviewers highlight the professionalism of the crew, especially pilots like Kevin, Jeff, and Mohamed—all praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor.
The Price & Value
At $550 per person, this experience is on the higher end, but reviews suggest it offers excellent value—especially when considering the quality of service, safety, and the once-in-a-lifetime nature of the flight. The included transportation, champagne toast, and gourmet bush breakfast make it a comprehensive package that exceeds expectations for many travelers.
Authentic Experiences & What Travelers Say
Guests consistently highlight the professionalism of pilots and staff, noting how they go above and beyond to make the experience memorable. For example, reviewer responses mention “seamless organization,” “outstanding service,” and “knowledgeable guides,” which contributes to a stress-free, enjoyable adventure.
Many travelers appreciated the personal touches, like the champagne toast after landing and the breakfast under the stars, which elevate the experience from just a hot air balloon ride to a genuine safari celebration. The stunning sunrise views, combined with wildlife sightings, result in countless “bucket-list” moments, as echoed by reviewers.
A common theme is the value of the experience—while the price is significant, many see it as a worthwhile splurge for the memories, photos, and stories that last a lifetime. The knowledgeable pilots, especially Captain Kevin, Captain Jeff, and Captain Mohamed, are often singled out for their professionalism, humor, and wildlife expertise.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This balloon safari is perfect for adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a unique way to explore the Serengeti. It’s especially suited for those who value luxury and authentic experiences—think gourmet breakfast in the wild, champagne, and stunning aerial views.
Families with children over 7 will find it a memorable activity, as the experience is generally safe and calm. However, couples, solo travelers, or groups of friends looking for a special occasion will find this to be a highlight of their Tanzanian safari.
The Sum Up
The Serengeti Balloon Safari combined with an authentic bush breakfast offers a rare blend of adventure and luxury. From the moment of takeoff at dawn to the celebratory toast afterwards, every element is crafted to create a truly memorable experience. The professionalism of the pilots, the stunning scenery, and the delicious breakfast are all standout features that elevate this trip beyond a simple tour.
While it’s an investment at $550, many travelers report it’s worth every penny, especially considering the expert guides, flexible routes, and intimate group size. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, a photo enthusiast, or simply in search of a magical morning, this experience will likely be a highlight of your Serengeti journey.
Ideal for those who want a high-quality, memorable adventure, and don’t mind splurging a little for an experience of a lifetime. It’s a carefully curated, well-organized activity that combines breathtaking views, wildlife sightings, and genuine luxury in the heart of Africa’s most famous wildlife destination.
FAQ
Is transportation from my lodge included?
Yes, most tours include a pre-dawn pickup from your lodge or camp, making it easy to start your adventure without hassle.
How early do I need to wake up?
The tour typically starts around 5:00 am, which means an early wake-up but a rewarding experience waiting in the skies.
What is the group size?
Limited to a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
Are children allowed on this tour?
No, children under 7 are not permitted, mainly for safety reasons and the quiet nature of the activity.
What should I wear?
Dress in layers—early mornings can be cool, but it warms up quickly as the sun rises. Bring sunglasses and a hat for sun protection.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
While sightings aren’t guaranteed, guests often see elephants, zebras, hippos, and sometimes predators like lions, depending on the time of year and route.
Can I book this experience last-minute?
Booking about 55 days in advance is recommended, as flights are popular and tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak migration seasons.
What makes this experience worth the price?
The combination of expert pilots, breathtaking views, wildlife sightings, and the luxury bush breakfast creates a memorable, high-value adventure that many consider well worth the cost.
Planning a Serengeti hot air balloon safari is about more than just soaring through the sky. It’s about the stories, the photos, and the feeling of being truly immersed in the wilderness at dawn—an experience not soon forgotten.