Serengeti Balloon Ride Safari
See the Serengeti from above
A Serengeti balloon safari gives you a quiet early-morning view of the plains from above. The flight usually begins around sunrise, when the light is soft and the Serengeti is waking up.
Balloon flights depend on weather, wind, and operator safety decisions. The route is not fixed because the balloon follows the morning wind, but the experience can offer wide views over the plains, wildlife areas, kopjes, and riverine landscapes.
In the central Serengeti, balloon rides usually operate from designated launch sites around the Seronera area, with vehicle transfer to the launch point and pick-up from the landing area. After the flight, the experience is usually followed by breakfast in the bush.
Balloon Ride Programme
Pick-up is usually early, around 5:00 am, from your central Serengeti lodge or camp. You are transferred to the launch site, where you meet the pilot, receive a safety briefing, and watch the balloon being prepared for take-off.
At dawn, the balloon rises with the morning light and drifts in the direction of the wind. The pilot controls the altitude, sometimes flying lower for a closer view of the landscape and sometimes rising higher for wide views across the Serengeti.
The flight normally lasts about 1 hour, depending on weather and wind conditions.
At higher altitude, sometimes around 300 metres or more, the flight can reveal the scale of the Serengeti. Between burner use, there is often a quiet feeling above the plains, broken only by the natural sounds below.
After landing, guests usually celebrate with sparkling wine or a similar drink before sitting down to a full bush breakfast.
Return After the Flight
After breakfast, guests usually receive a balloon flight certificate. You are then driven back toward Seronera, with game viewing along the route where possible.
The group usually arrives back around 9:30 am, ready to continue the day's safari programme.
Important Notes and Restrictions
This activity works best with safari itineraries that include a night in central Serengeti or selected western Serengeti camps. Pick-up locations depend on the operator, camp location, season, and final safari itinerary.
Children under 7 years old are not allowed on the balloon ride, subject to current operator rules.
Add a Balloon Ride to Your Safari
Tell us your Serengeti travel dates and where you will be staying. We will confirm whether a balloon safari can fit your itinerary, check availability, and explain the current timing, inclusions, restrictions, and weather policy.
