Serengeti: Hot Air Balloon Safari with Breakfast & Champagne

Exploring the Serengeti on a hot air balloon safari is often hailed as a bucket-list experience, and for good reason. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed reviews and carefully curated itinerary suggest it’s a truly memorable way to see Africa’s legendary wilderness. From sunrise flights to a gourmet bush breakfast, it combines adventure, luxury, and incredible wildlife viewing—all from a unique vantage point.

What we love about this experience is the chance to soar over sprawling plains and spot animals from above—something truly special that ground safaris can’t match. The idea of sipping champagne as the sun rises over the savannah feels both glamorous and authentic. Plus, the personalized flight certificate adds a keepsake to remind you of this once-in-a-lifetime moment.

A possible consideration is the early start—with a 5:00 AM pick-up, it’s not for late risers. But if you’re an early bird who enjoys the quiet magic of dawn, this timing ensures the best lighting and wildlife sightings. This experience is best suited for travelers who want a blend of adventure, comfort, and unforgettable views, especially those seeking a luxury safari with a touch of elegance.

Key Points

• Unmatched wildlife views from above, including lions, elephants, and giraffes.
• Sunrise flight offers stunning lighting and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Luxury bush breakfast with personalized mementos like a flight certificate.
• All transfers and logistics handled smoothly, making it a hassle-free experience.
• Cost of $725 provides access to a premium adventure with memorable extras.
• Suitable for adventure seekers and luxury travelers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Magic of a Hot Air Balloon Safari in the Serengeti

Imagine drifting gently over the expansive Serengeti plains as the first light of dawn breaks. This is what a hot air balloon safari promises—an experience that elevates your safari to new heights—literally. The tour begins early, with a 5:00 AM pickup from your lodge or camp, ensuring you’re ready for the breathtaking moments ahead.

As the balloon ascends, you’re greeted with panoramic views that stretch across the vast, open landscape. The one-hour flight feels like a gentle, serene glide, with the silence broken only by occasional bursts of flame and the sounds of the wilderness below. From this vantage point, spotting wildlife becomes a game of patience and awe—lions lounging in the morning sun, elephants ambling across the plains, and giraffes gracefully browsing tall trees.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Sunrise Advantage: The earliest flight means you’re among the first to see the park wake up, with the soft glow of dawn casting long shadows and highlighting the landscape’s contours. This lighting makes wildlife spotting easier and the views more dramatic.

Wildlife sightings from above: Many reviewers mention how different and enriching it is to see the Serengeti’s animals from the sky. One shared, “Watching lions from above was surreal—such a different perspective.” From the air, herds appear like moving patches of color, and you get a sense of the vastness of the park.

Champagne and breakfast: After landing, you’re treated to a luxury bush breakfast. Imagine sitting among the wildlife, enjoying fresh food and drinks, while the sun climbs higher. The addition of champagne and juice elevates the moment, turning a simple breakfast into a celebration.

Personalized mementos: Guests receive a flight certificate—a thoughtful keepsake that captures the moment when you floated over Africa’s iconic landscape.

The Practicalities: What to Expect

This safari isn’t just a flight—it’s a well-organized experience that balances adventure with comfort. The entire process is managed by Exellent African Wilderness Tours, who coordinate everything from pick-up to drop-off, ensuring a seamless day.

Timing & Preparation: The early start means packing appropriately—comfortable clothes suited to the weather, a hat, sunglasses, and sunblock are highly recommended. You’ll want to bring a camera, as the views are breathtaking. Wear layers if it’s cool in the early morning, but be prepared for the heat as the day progresses.

Duration & Group Size: The flight itself lasts around one hour, but the entire experience, including transfers, breakfast, and certificate presentation, spans roughly 4-5 hours. The group size varies depending on demand, but the reviews suggest it’s a small, manageable group, which enhances the personal experience.

Transportation: Transportation is via comfortable vehicles, picked up from your lodge or camp, so there’s no need to worry about logistics. Transfers are included, making the experience stress-free.

Cost & Value: At $725 per person, this tour is a premium experience. While it’s a significant investment, the combination of aerial views, wildlife sightings, luxury breakfast, and souvenirs creates a memorable value that many find worth the price.

What Do Reviewers Say?

Several reviews highlight the awe of the scenery and the thrill of the flight. One guest noted that “the views were stunning, and seeing the animals from above gave us a whole new perspective.” Others appreciated the smooth organization, mentioning how easily the logistics were handled.

A common praise is the quality of the breakfast: “The bush breakfast was delicious, with plenty of options, and the setting was incredible.” Many reviews also mention how the personalized certificate makes a special keepsake, perfect for remembering the adventure.

Some reviewers have pointed out the early start as a positive, emphasizing how it rewards you with the best lighting and wildlife activity. Still, a few noted that it’s best suited for those who don’t mind waking up before sunrise.

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Additional Details & Tips

• What to wear: Comfortable clothes suitable for the weather, with layers recommended for early morning chills.
• What to bring: Camera, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.
• Duration: Approximately 4-5 hours, including all logistics.
• Inclusions: Pick-up and drop-off, coffee, a one-hour flight, cold water, champagne and juice, breakfast, and a flight certificate.
• Reservation flexibility: You can book now and pay later, with full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

The Sum Up

A hot air balloon safari in the Serengeti is a striking way to see Africa’s wildlife and landscapes from a fresh perspective. Combining adventure with luxury, it offers a peaceful, awe-inspiring experience that many travelers find worth the expense. For those who love stunning vistas, rare wildlife sightings, and a sense of exclusivity, this tour delivers on all counts.

While the early start might be a challenge, the unforgettable views, wildlife encounters, and elegant breakfast make it a worthwhile adventure. It’s particularly suited for travelers wanting a special, once-in-a-lifetime experience that balances thrill and comfort.

If you’re after a safari that’s not just about game drives but also about seeing the vastness of the Serengeti from the sky, this hot air balloon experience is a top contender. Just keep your camera ready—you’ll want to capture those incredible moments.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
Pick-up is at 5:00 AM, giving you a head start to catch the sunrise and see wildlife in the morning light.

Is the flight duration really one hour?
Yes, the balloon flight itself lasts about one hour, offering ample time to enjoy the scenery from above.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes pick-up and drop-off, coffee before take-off, a one-hour flight, cold water, champagne and juice, a luxury bush breakfast, and a personalized flight certificate.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for the weather, with layers if mornings are cool. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is the group size large?
The reviews suggest smaller groups, making it more personalized and enjoyable.

What is the value of this experience?
Priced at $725, it offers a unique perspective, luxury touches, and lasting memories that many find worth the cost.

How do I secure my spot?
You can reserve now with the option to pay later, providing flexibility in planning.

Is there any age restriction?
The provided information doesn’t specify, but generally, hot air balloon safaris are suitable for most adults in good health.

What makes this experience special?
The combination of sunrise views, wildlife sightings from above, champagne breakfast, and a personalized certificate creates a memorable, luxurious adventure.

In essence, this Serengeti hot air balloon safari offers an elegant and exciting way to experience Africa’s wild beauty. Perfect for those seeking a peaceful, awe-inspiring adventure that elevates the usual safari.

You can check availability for your dates here: