Top Hot Air Balloon Destinations in Africa: Safari Reviews and Tours
Hot Air Balloon Destinations: A hot air balloon safari in Africa is a breathtaking way to witness the continent’s splendour. Sailing over the Serengeti in a hot air balloon is life’s peak experience, marvelling at the vast array of wildlife below—wildebeests, zebras, ostriches, and hyenas—a sight that is unparalleled and urges everyone to experience.
The spectacle of Africa’s fauna from a hot air balloon is truly a memory for the ages. It presents an exceptional vantage point for the Great Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, Namibia’s alien-like desert landscapes of Sossusvlei, and the majestic Murchison Falls in Uganda.
Embarking on a hot air balloon safari across the stunning landscapes of Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, or any other enchanting African destination offers a rare and breathtaking perspective. Here’s what you need to know to get ready for an adventure that feels like floating in a dream.
What does it feel like to soar over Africa in a hot air balloon?
Imagine taking flight in a hot air balloon over Africa, where an exhilarating adventure awaits, presenting a fresh view of the continent’s splendour. As you rise, panoramic vistas unfold before you, revealing endless savannahs, verdant grasslands, meandering rivers, and towering mountains. The sheer diversity of the terrain will leave you spellbound.
Yet, it’s not only the scenery that will steal your gaze. The remarkable wildlife is also a highlight of the journey. From your aerial vantage point, you’ll spot a variety of animals roaming freely below. Witnessing vast herds of elephants and elegant giraffes from this unique angle offers a sense of freedom like no other.
Flight durations vary from 1 to 3.5 hours, subject to your chosen locale and the day’s weather. The larger balloons feature commodious baskets, accommodating up to 16 passengers, ensuring everyone enjoys an unobstructed view of the awe-inspiring surroundings.
Our Top Hot Air Balloon Destinations in Africa
The Serengeti
In the Serengeti, a premier wildlife sanctuary renowned for the great migration, you have the opportunity to embark on a hot air balloon adventure from three distinct locations. The central Serengeti, particularly around the Seronera River, is a hotspot for wildlife gatherings, thanks to the constant water supply. Meanwhile, the Western Serengeti offers a unique vantage point to witness a plethora of captivating wildlife events from the sky. Imagine soaring above the vast plains in a hot air balloon, where the world below unfolds in a spectacle of nature’s grandeur.
Hot Air Balloon Flight over Serengeti – Miracle Experience Balloon Safaris
The Okavango Delta
The Okavango Delta is frequently cited as the greatest place in Africa to see wildlife. Yes, I would agree, but the scenery is what sets it apart. The Delta is abundant with life and is in full flow from May to the end of August. From the air, there is no better way to take in the park’s incredible grandeur and the wildlife that frequents the flood plains. Notably, only a select few sites provide this activity; the Yellow Zebra’s top picks are Wilderness Little Vumbura and Wilderness Vumbura Plains!
Hot air ballooning with ‘Captain Smiles’ Joyce Beckwith – BBC Africa
The Masai Mara Hot Air Balloon Destinations
Is there a more spectacular vantage point to witness one of Earth’s greatest wildlife spectacles than from the lofty heights of a hot air balloon? Soaring above the vast Kenyan landscape, these aerial journeys offer an unparalleled view of the breathtaking tapestry of nature for which this region is renowned. As you drift silently over the plains, the panorama unfolds below, leaving you in awe of the sheer beauty and drama of the natural world. It’s an extraordinary way to immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Wildlife Cup, a truly jaw-dropping experience that captures the essence of Kenya’s magical vistas.
Kenya: Hot air balloon safari over Masai Mara
The Sossusvlei Hot Air Balloon Destinations
Namibia is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, and the dunes of Sossusvlei are often the first image that comes to mind. The focus here is less on wildlife viewing—though spotting oryx, springbok, and ostrich is possible—and more on savouring the remarkable desert vistas. The stark contrast between the towering golden dunes and the brilliant cobalt sky is unforgettable. A hot air balloon ride offers a unique vantage point to appreciate the surreal beauty of this photogenic terrain.
For those spending two or three nights, a balloon ride is highly recommended. Among the several top-tier lodges available, &Beyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge and Wilderness Little Kulala stand out as personal favourites.
Breathtaking sunrise over Sossusvlei, Namibia from a hot air balloon!
Tarangire Hot Air Balloon Destinations
Often overlooked in northern Tanzania, Tarangire is a true hidden gem that Yellow Zebra celebrates. It’s an essential stop for those seeking a path less traveled, boasting an impressive elephant migration with around 3,000 individuals converging in the park’s heart. The park’s exceptional wildlife viewing makes it a personal favourite. For the active adventurer, Tarangire stands out as Northern Tanzania’s premier destination, offering a variety of activities including walking safaris, night drives, and even hot air balloon excursions. For an unforgettable stay, Ndovu Camp and Kuro Tarangire are two exceptional camps that are highly recommended in this magnificent area.
Murchison Falls National Park
A hot air balloon safari at Murchison Falls National Park will make your Ugandan safari unforgettable. With an abundance of wildlife, breathtaking natural landscapes, and the majestic River Nile, there’s so much to discover. Experience Uganda’s splendour from an extraordinary perspective as you soar in a hot air balloon.
Ideal for marriage proposals, honeymooners, or anyone seeking adventure, the Hot Air Balloon Safaris at Murchison Falls National Park promise an exhilarating experience like no other.
