An Amazing Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride in the Serengeti

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A Bucket List Adventure Like No Other

Imagine floating above the golden plains of the Serengeti as the sun rises; the landscape is beautiful, with shades of orange, pink, and gold. Below you are herds of wildebeest, zebras, and giraffes roaming freely, creating a scene straight out of a nature documentary. This is what a hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti promises: a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that connects you with nature in a way few other experiences can.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about taking a hot air balloon ride in the Serengeti. From why it’s so popular to what to expect, how to book, and why this experience is absolutely priceless.

Why a Hot Air Balloon Ride in the Serengeti Is So Popular

The Serengeti is one of the most iconic wildlife destinations on the planet, and for good reason. It’s home to several of nature’s marvels; the Great Migration, the Big Five, and some of the most stunning landscapes you’ll ever see.

What sets a hot air balloon ride apart is the perspective it offers. While game drives keep you at ground level, a hot air balloon lets you see the Serengeti in all its vastness. The aerial view showcases the intricate patterns of animal migrations, the winding rivers, and the sheer scale of this incredible ecosystem. It’s an adventure that combines awe-inspiring beauty with a sense of tranquility that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Booking Your Balloon Safari: Tips for Early Planning

If you’re dreaming of a hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti, the first thing to know is this: book early! Balloon safaris are incredibly popular, and spots fill up quickly, especially during the high season (June to October, and January to March).

I personally used Serengeti Balloon Safaris, one of the most reputable companies in the region. They’ve been operating for years and are known for their excellent safety record, experienced pilots, and unforgettable experiences. Booking with a trusted company like this ensures that your adventure is both safe and enjoyable.

When you’re planning, keep in mind that balloon safaris typically start very early in the morning, so you’ll need to factor this into your schedule. Most lodges and camps in the Serengeti can help arrange your booking and transportation to the launch site.

What to Expect on the Day of Your Balloon Safari

• An Early Start

The adventure begins well before sunrise. Most balloon safaris start around 5:00 AM with a pick-up from your lodge or camp. You’ll arrive at the launch site in the cool, pre-dawn hours, where you’ll be greeted with coffee and a safety briefing. Watching the massive balloon being inflated is an experience in itself it’s incredible to see it come to life under the soft glow of the morning light. We needed to be in the lobby waiting at 4:00 am to leave and make it to the launch site on time.

• The Flight

Once the balloon is ready, you’ll climb aboard the sturdy wicker basket. The moment the burners fire up and the balloon begins to lift off is nothing short of magical. You’ll gently ascend into the sky, and before you know it, you’ll be soaring over the Serengeti.

The flight lasts about an hour, giving you plenty of time to take in the scenery, spot wildlife, and snap breathtaking photos. The sunrise is truly spectacular, casting long shadows and warm light across the plains. Depending on the time of year, you might even catch a glimpse of the Great Migration—a sea of wildebeest and zebras moving in unison.

• A Champagne Toast

After a smooth landing, you’ll celebrate your adventure with a champagne toast. This is an iconic tradition of hot air ballooning. This is followed by a delicious bush breakfast, served right in the middle of the Serengeti. There’s something surreal about enjoying a hearty meal surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African wilderness.

Photos courtesy of Serengeti Balloon Safaris

Why It’s a Priceless Experience

I’ll be honest, hot air balloon rides in the Serengeti aren’t cheap. But here’s why I think that they’re worth every penny:

1. Unmatched Views: There’s no other way to see the Serengeti like this. The aerial perspective gives you a new appreciation for the landscape and its wildlife.
2. Tranquility: Floating silently above the plains is a peaceful, almost meditative experience.
3. Memories That Last a Lifetime: This isn’t just a ride; it’s a story you’ll tell for years to come. The magic of seeing the sun rise over the Serengeti is something you’ll never forget.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Balloon Safari

1. Dress in Layers: Mornings in the Serengeti can be chilly, so wear layers that you can peel off as the day warms up.
2. Bring a Camera: You’ll want to capture the stunning views, so bring a camera or smartphone with plenty of storage space.
3. Stay Flexible: Balloon safaris are weather-dependent, so be prepared for the possibility of rescheduling if conditions aren’t ideal.

How to Get There

Most visitors arrive in the Serengeti by flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK). From there, you can take a domestic flight to one of the airstrips within the Serengeti. Many lodges and camps offer transfers to and from the airstrips, making it easy to get around. Because we did multiple different safari days at different national parks we actually drove to Serengeti National Park and stayed at the Melia Serengeti Lodge which is located in the national park. This made our transport to the launch site much easier, the hotel made all of the arrangements and even provided a light breakfast at 3:30am.

Packing Essentials for Your Balloon Safari

When preparing for your balloon safari, there are a few items you’ll want to bring along to make your adventure more comfortable:

• A lightweight jacket for the chilly morning air.
• Comfortable shoes, as you’ll stand in the basket for the duration of the flight.
• Rosebud Salve, A good lip balm is essential, the air is chilly and can dry out your lips and skin
• Sunscreen and sunglasses to protect against the sun once it rises.
• Binoculars for spotting wildlife from above.
• Motion Sickness Patches to help prevent possible motion sickness

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Adventure

A sunrise hot air balloon ride in the Serengeti is more than just an activity, it’s an unforgettable experience that connects you with one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Whether it’s the stunning views, the thrill of the ride, or the serenity of floating above the plains, this adventure will leave you with memories to treasure forever.

If you’re planning a trip to Tanzania, make sure this is on your itinerary. Trust me, it’s worth it!

Shop my suggested must-haves

Space is limited on a hot air balloon ride, so I’m sharing my must-have essentials to make the experience more enjoyable. I brought both my DSLR camera and quickly realized that I probably shouldnt have. My Osmo Pocket 3, was a lifesaver in this case. A good lip balm is a must, I swear by Rosebud Salve because it works wonders on both lips and other dry spots. For sunscreen, I recommend a stick formula since it’s compact, easy to carry, and perfect for a hot air balloon adventure!

DJI OSMO POCKET 3: https://amzn.to/4gnJDrz

MOTION SICKNESS PATCHES: https://amzn.to/3OJKiYx

BINOCULARS: https://amzn.to/4iCbgz6 

ROSEBUD SALVE: https://amzn.to/3ZImzOH

SUNSCREEN: https://amzn.to/3PwfGKp