Arusha: 3-Day Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Safari & Flights

Planning a safari that combines breathtaking aerial views with close-up wildlife encounters? This 3-day Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Safari based out of Arusha offers just that. It promises an immersive experience across the central, northern, and southern parts of the Serengeti, with the added thrill of flying over the plains at sunrise.

What we love about this tour is its blend of adventure and comfort: soaring over the vast landscape, enjoying a champagne breakfast in the wild, and staying in carefully chosen lodges or camps. Plus, the chance to witness the Great Migration or wildebeest calving (seasonal) adds a layer of authenticity and awe to the trip.

The one potential downside? The price tag of around $4,000 per person might be steep for some, especially considering the seasonality of certain activities like balloon safaris. That said, the exclusivity, scenery, and expert guides make it a valuable option for those seeking a premium safari experience.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of luxury, adventure, and wildlife in one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes. If you’re eager to see the Serengeti from above and on the ground, and don’t mind an upscale price, this package could be just right.

Key Points

• Multi-region exploration: Coverage of central, northern, and southern Serengeti offers a comprehensive experience.
• Hot air balloon adventure: Enjoying a sunrise balloon ride is a highlight, with a celebratory champagne breakfast afterwards.
• Seasonal opportunities: Witnessing the Great Migration or calving depends on the time of year, adding anticipation.
• Well-organized logistics: Flights, transfers, and game drives are thoughtfully coordinated, maximizing your time and experience.
• Expert guides: The tour provider’s guides are knowledgeable, enriching your understanding of wildlife and landscapes.
• Luxury stays: Accommodation in lodges or camps ensures comfort after busy days of exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary

Day 1: From Arusha to Central Serengeti – Soaring Over the Plains

The adventure kicks off with a morning transfer from your Arusha hotel or lodge to the airport, where you’ll board a flight to the central Serengeti, typically landing at Seronera Airstrip. This first leg is about setting the tone—think wide-open skies, endless grasslands, and the promise of wildlife sightings just beyond the horizon.

Upon arrival, your guides will whisk you to your lodge or camp. After settling in, the real magic begins with your hot air balloon safari. We loved the way this view changes your perception—seeing the expansive plains, herds of grazing animals, and predators stalking from above is unlike anything else. Reviewers mention that the guides are experienced and knowledgeable, adding context to the scenery.

Post-flight, a champagne breakfast in the bush is served, allowing a relaxed, celebratory start to your safari day. If energy permits, a short game drive offers a chance to spot lions, elephants, and other big game close to your camp.

Day 2: Northern Serengeti – Crossing the Mara (Seasonal)

After breakfast, you’ll fly to the northern Serengeti, often Kogatende Airstrip. This region is especially famous for the Great Migration crossing the Mara River, a spectacle that draws visitors from around the world. Many reviews praise the guides’ ability to locate wildlife, noting that “the guides are incredibly knowledgeable—they instantly knew where to find lions lounging and elephants bathing.”

In the afternoon, you might take part in game drives that showcase the rolling hills, woodland borders, and river crossings. If it’s the right season (July-October), seeing the migration in action is a bucket-list event. Unfortunately, if you’re visiting outside of the migration season, you might find fewer opportunities for that particular spectacle but still plenty of wildlife to see.

Day 3: Southern Serengeti – Calving Season and Return

Early morning, you transfer to another airstrip for a flight to the southern Serengeti, near Ndutu or Lake Masek. This area is renowned for its wildebeest calving season (December to March), adding a dramatic element to the landscape. The short-grass plains and predator activity here are captivating, especially if you’re lucky enough to witness a kill or cubs learning to walk.

Similar to the first day, opportunities for a hot air balloon safari depend on the season—many travelers mention it’s particularly spectacular during calving, when the concentration of young animals and predators makes for dramatic scenes. If ballooning isn’t feasible, game drives through this wide-open terrain deliver plenty of wildlife encounters.

Later, you’ll fly back to Arusha or Kilimanjaro, ending your safari with memories of the vast Serengeti’s changing landscapes and animal activity.

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The Experience of Flying and Staying

One of the most appealing aspects of this tour is its seamless combination of air travel, game drives, and luxurious accommodations. The flights between regions are brief but add a sense of adventure—flying over the plains provides a unique perspective that ground-based safaris can’t match.

Guests consistently praise the guides’ expertise, noting that they knew where to find elusive predators or migrating herds. This knowledge makes a real difference, especially for those eager to witness specific wildlife behaviors or seasonal events.

Lodges and camps are thoughtfully chosen to enhance your experience, offering comfort, good food, and a chance to reflect on the day’s sightings. Many reviewers mention the quality of the accommodations, which balance luxury with authenticity, often with views of the plains or close proximity to wildlife hotspots.

How Weather and Season Affect the Experience

Since balloon safaris are weather-dependent, travelers should be prepared for possible cancellations or rescheduling. Some reviewers have noted that weather conditions sometimes limit balloon flights, especially during rainy seasons or windy days. Planning your trip during the optimal season—typically July to October for migration or December to March for calving—gives you the best chance to enjoy all activities.

Cost and Value

At around $4,000 per person, this tour offers a premium experience that includes flights, safaris, and accommodations. While the price might seem high, it reflects the exclusive access, expert guidance, and unique activities like aerial views of the Serengeti. For travelers seeking a comprehensive, well-organized safari that offers both adventure and comfort, this cost can be justified.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari suits those who want to see a wide stretch of the Serengeti, enjoy unique perspectives via ballooning, and value comfort and guided expertise. It’s best for travelers comfortable with flying, and those looking for an upscale experience that emphasizes authentic wildlife encounters with a touch of luxury.

The Sum Up

This 3-day Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Safari provides an excellent blend of adventure, wildlife viewing, and comfort. Flying over the plains offers unforgettable views, while game drives and stays in quality lodges make for a balanced, immersive experience.

It’s a strong choice for travelers who want to combine aerial perspectives with ground-level wildlife encounters and are prepared for the investment in both time and money. The knowledgeable guides and carefully curated itinerary help ensure you leave with a thorough understanding and appreciation of the Serengeti’s natural wonders.

For those seeking an authentic, scenic, and curated safari adventure, this tour delivers. It’s ideal for those who prioritize quality and exclusivity, and want to make the most of their Tanzanian safari experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 7 years old, due to safety and activity restrictions.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this tour requires reservation, but you can reserve and pay later, giving you flexibility.

Can I participate if I’m pregnant or have health issues?
No, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with back or heart problems due to the nature of the activities and flight.

Are the balloon safaris weather dependent?
Yes, balloon safaris depend on weather conditions, and flights can be canceled or rescheduled if the weather isn’t safe.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, camera, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and binoculars for wildlife viewing.

What’s included in the price?
Transfers, flights within Serengeti, hot air balloon safari, champagne breakfast, and accommodations in lodges or camps are included.

What’s not included?
International flights, personal expenses, travel insurance, and visa fees are not included.

Is there a specific season for the Great Migration or calving?
Yes, the Great Migration crossing peaks from July to October; calving season is from December to March.

How long are the flights?
The flights between regions are short, typically just enough to cover the vast distances comfortably.

Can I expect to see wildlife on the game drives?
Absolutely. Guides are highly experienced in locating animals, and many guests have noted their ability to find interesting wildlife, including predators and large herds.

This safari offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Tanzania’s premier wildlife spectacles, balanced with comfort and adventure. It’s a trip for those who want a memorable, scenic, and educational experience in the heart of Africa’s wildlife paradise.

You can check availability for your dates here: