A hot-air balloon flight over the Serengeti is one of the most memorable experiences in Africa. You drift silently over the plains at sunrise, often low enough to see animals clearly, then land for breakfast in the bush.
How it works
- Early pick-up from your camp, usually around 5:00.
- Launch at first light, after a safety briefing.
- About an hour in the air, sometimes rising high for wide views, sometimes skimming over trees and rivers.
- Landing wherever the wind takes you, followed by a sparkling wine toast.
- Bush breakfast at a table in the wilderness.
- Game drive back to your camp or to meet your guide.
Where flights run
| Area | Season |
|---|---|
| Central Serengeti (Seronera) | All year |
| Southern Serengeti and Ndutu | December–March, calving season |
| Northern Serengeti | Around July–October, migration river crossings |
| Western corridor | Around May–July |
Balloon flights also run in Tarangire and Ruaha in some seasons.
Cost
Expect around $550–$650 per person, including the flight, breakfast and park fees for the flight. Prices vary by operator and season. It is expensive but often the highlight of a trip.
Good to know
- Flights depend on the weather and can be cancelled for strong wind or rain.
- Baskets hold up to about 16 people, in sections.
- Children usually need to be at least 7 years old.
- Wear warm layers; it is cold before sunrise.
- Book early for peak months.
Read about the Great Migration and see Serengeti and the crater, Ndutu calving or Mara crossing. Ask us to add a balloon flight.
Frequently asked questions
Around $550–$650 per person, including breakfast and the flight’s park fees. Prices vary by season.
About an hour in the air, plus pick-up, breakfast and the drive back, so most of the morning.
Licensed operators fly with experienced pilots and cancel flights in unsafe weather.
