Hot Air Balloon Safaris
Float Above the Serengeti & Tarangire Savanna at Sunrise with Bush Champagne Breakfast
Duration
approx. 4-5 Hours (1 Hr Flight)
Location
Serengeti National Park & Tarangire
Best Time
Year-Round (Weather Permitting)
Difficulty
Easy / Luxurious
A Bird’s-Eye View of Africa’s Endless Plains
Gliding silently above the vast wilderness of the Serengeti or Tarangire at dawn is one of the world's most breathtaking travel experiences. As the first rays of sunlight illuminate the golden grasses, herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move across the plains beneath your basket.
Your journey begins in the early morning darkness with a short transfer to the launch site. As the massive balloon inflates with roaring burners, you'll board with your certified commercial pilot and gently lift off just as dawn breaks.
After an unforgettable one-hour flight taking in panoramic vistas of rivers, acacia forests, and game herds, you land in the open bush to celebrate with a traditional champagne toast followed by a hot multi-course English breakfast served under the shade of an acacia tree.
Experience Highlights
What makes this journey extraordinary
Sunrise Flight over Savannah
Watch the sun rise over the African horizon from 1,000 feet above ground level.
Silent Aerial Wildlife Tracking
Fly low over river courses and treetops to observe hippos, giraffes, and wildebeest herds undisturbed.
Champagne Bush Celebration
Celebrate landing with fine champagne, fresh tropical fruits, and a hot cooked breakfast on fine china in the wild.
Official Flight Certificate
Receive a personalized hot air balloon flight certificate signed by your captain upon landing.
Seasonality & Wildlife Calendar
Select a month to inspect seasonal activity and game conditions
January
High SeasonCalving season in Southern Serengeti; epic aerial views of newborn herds.
What to Expect
Your step-by-step experience itinerary
Dawn Transfer to Launch Site
Your guide picks you up from your lodge or camp for a night drive to the launch field.
Inflation & Gentle Ascent
Watch crew inflate the balloon, receive safety instructions, and lift off as the horizon glows orange.
1-Hour Aerial Safari
Float at varying altitudes—skimming tree canopy level and climbing up for panoramic 360-degree views.
Champagne Toast & Feast
Land safely in the wilderness, toast with champagne, and sit down to a full silver-service breakfast.
Native Safari Tips
- Dress in layers: dawn at launch sites can be chilly (around 12-15°C / 55-60°F), but heats up rapidly after sunrise.
- Wear closed-toe sturdy shoes for boarding and landing in brush.
- Secure camera straps around your neck; loose items cannot be retrieved if dropped from the basket.
- Book well in advance as balloon basket slots are strictly limited per day to protect airspace and park environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Essential travel answers before booking
Recommended Next Steps
Combine this experience with Tanzania’s top parks & packages
Ready for Hot Air Balloon Safaris?
Our native Arusha travel specialists will design a custom itinerary around your schedule, preferences, and budget.
