Maasai Mara: Hot Air Balloon Safari with Breakfast

Travelers often dream of seeing the Maasai Mara from a perspective that truly captures its vastness and wild beauty. The Hot Air Balloon Safari with Breakfast offered by Affable East Africa Tours and Safaris promises just that—an early-morning flight that offers stunning vistas, wildlife sightings, and a touch of adventure. While it comes at a premium price of $650 per person, many agree that the experience’s visual rewards and exclusivity make it worth every cent.

What we particularly love about this tour is the chance to see the Maasai Mara at dawn, when the light hits the plains just right, creating a spectacular backdrop for wildlife spotting and photography. The elegant ritual of the balloon inflating before your eyes adds a magical element to the adventure. Plus, the inclusion of a full bush breakfast afterwards turns the experience into a true luxury safari. On the downside, weather dependency means the flight might be canceled or rescheduled, which could affect your plans—something that’s worth keeping in mind if your schedule is tight. This tour is ideal for those seeking a combination of adventure, comfort, and incredible views with a touch of exclusivity.

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Key Points:

Unmatched aerial views of the Maasai Mara’s vast plains and wildlife.
Early morning start for optimal lighting and animal activity.
Includes breakfast, transforming the flight into a luxurious experience.
Weather-dependent activity—plans may need flexibility.
Suitable for travelers seeking a memorable, unique safari experience.
Not recommended for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or heart conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience at a Glance

The Maasai Mara Hot Air Balloon Safari begins well before sunrise, with pickup from your accommodation around 5:30 – 6:00 AM. The early start is crucial because the best flying conditions and wildlife sightings happen in the cool, quiet hours just after dawn. Upon arrival at the launch site, you’ll witness the awe-inspiring sight of the hot air balloon inflating—a process that draws gasps of excitement from onlookers. The crew, made up of experienced pilots, will give a safety briefing that’s both reassuring and informative.

Once in the air, you’re greeted with a sensation of gentle weightlessness—there’s nothing quite like drifting above the savannah as the landscape unfolds beneath you. The views are panoramic: golden grasses stretching to the horizon, winding rivers, and distant acacia trees. As your pilot guides the balloon, you’ll be able to spot herds of elephants, prides of lions, and zebras grazing, all from a privileged vantage point that’s impossible to get from ground level.

The flight duration is around an hour, which is enough time to soak in the scenery without losing the sense of intimacy and tranquility. Several reviewers mention how the peacefulness of floating above the wilderness is both calming and exhilarating. One noted, “It’s hard not to be impressed by how quiet and still everything is up here—except for the occasional bird call or distant lion.”

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Wildlife Viewing from Above

The real magic of this tour lies in the bird’s-eye perspective. From high above, you can see the sprawling herds of animals in their natural environment. Many guests mention how the experience offers a new appreciation for the scale and diversity of the Maasai Mara.

Reviews highlight that lions are often spotted lounging in the shade, elephants moving in family groups, and giraffes browsing the treetops. The aerial view also reveals the winding rivers that serve as wildlife corridors—perfect for spotting crocodiles or hippos in the water. The ability to observe predator-prey interactions from above adds a captivating element that enhances the safari experience.

The Breakfast in the Bush

After landing around 9:00 AM, you’ll be treated to a full English breakfast in the bush, a highlight for many. The setting varies but is usually at a scenic, open-air location that complements the grandeur of the flight. Guests typically raise glasses in a celebratory toast, savoring fresh coffee or juice alongside hearty food, surrounded by the sounds of the wilderness.

One reviewer shared, “There’s something incredibly special about enjoying breakfast in the middle of the Mara, with all the sounds of wildlife around you and the sky behind you.” This meal not only refuels you but also makes the whole experience feel luxurious and well-curated.

The Logistics

The itinerary is carefully designed to maximize comfort and safety. You’ll meet for an evening briefing to go over safety tips and what to expect, followed by an early morning transfer to the launch site. The pilot safety briefing is thorough, giving you confidence before takeoff.

The group size is typically small, as most flights are shared but intimate, allowing for better views and a more personal experience. The price of $650 includes:

Pre-flight tea or coffee
The hot air balloon ride
A champagne toast upon landing
The full breakfast afterward
Transfers to and from your lodge or camp
A flying certificate to commemorate your adventure

However, not included are international flights, visas, vaccinations, gratuities, or optional extras outside the standard package.

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Important Tips for Travelers

Since this activity is weather dependent, flexibility in your schedule is advisable. According to reviews, cancellations or rescheduling are rare but can happen for safety reasons.

You’ll want to dress in comfortable clothing and shoes, with layers to adapt to early morning chill and potential warmth later. Don’t forget your camera, as the views are too stunning to miss. A wide-angle lens helps capture the entire landscape, while a zoom can bring distant wildlife into focus.

Children under a certain age are usually not allowed to fly, and pregnant women or those with medical conditions, such as heart problems, are advised to check with the operator beforehand. The tour provider offers services in English, Spanish, French, and German, accommodating a variety of travelers.

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Why Choose This Experience?

This safari offers a rare opportunity to see the Maasai Mara from an elevated vantage point, transforming your usual game-drive perspective into an unforgettable aerial adventure. The combination of a gentle flight, stunning scenery, and a luxurious breakfast makes it more than just a wildlife safari—it’s a celebration of nature’s grandeur.

The small group sizes and professional pilots ensure safety and personalized attention, adding to the appeal. For wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, or anyone wanting a new way to explore Kenya’s iconic landscape, this experience hits all the right notes.

The Sum Up

The Maasai Mara Hot Air Balloon Safari with Breakfast excels at offering an extraordinary view of Kenya’s premier wildlife reserve. As long as you’re comfortable with early mornings and weather variability, it’s a truly special way to see the plains, observe animals from above, and enjoy a delicious breakfast in the middle of the wilderness.

This experience is ideal for travelers craving a blend of adventure, comfort, and stunning visuals. It’s perfect for those who want to add something memorable and visually spectacular to their Maasai Mara trip. While the price might seem high, the exclusivity, quality of the views, and overall experience make it a worthwhile investment for an unforgettable safari highlight.

FAQ

How early do I need to wake up for this tour?
You should be ready for pickup around 5:30 to 6:00 AM, as the activity begins with an early transfer to the launch site to catch the sunrise.

What does the price include?
The $650 covers the pre-flight tea or coffee, the balloon flight, a champagne toast upon landing, a full breakfast in the bush, transfers to and from your lodge, and a flying certificate.

Is the activity suitable for children?
Children under a certain age may not be permitted to fly; check with the operator for specific age restrictions. It’s also not recommended for pregnant women or those with certain medical conditions.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can affect balloon flights, and cancellations or rescheduling are possible for safety reasons. It’s good to have flexible plans just in case.

How long does the flight last?
The hot air balloon ride generally lasts about an hour, giving enough time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera are essential. Layers are recommended because early mornings can be chilly.

Is the experience shared or private?
Most flights are shared but small, providing an intimate and personal experience with fellow travelers.

This hot air balloon safari offers a memorable and picturesque way to experience the Maasai Mara. Whether you’re an avid photographer, wildlife enthusiast, or simply craving a lush, panoramic view of Kenya’s wilderness, this adventure is likely to leave you with spectacular memories—and some incredible photos.