Endless plains Balloon Safaris adventure

Many people consider a dawn flight over the Serengeti one of the "must do" safari experiences. And, truth be told, the romance of this adventure is unparalleled. You rise up over the African plains just as the dawn breaks, amidst skies awash with pink and gold. An hour later, your balloon sets down on the savanna, where you are served champagne and a full English breakfast. Around mid-morning, you return by road, game-viewing all the way, to join your group and continue the day's exploration of the Serengeti. Because of limited space, advance reservations are required


 

A balloon safari is easily incorporated into any itinerary which includes at least one night in the Central Serengeti. Late May through late June and early November through early December are especially good times to schedule a ballooning expedition. The wildebeest and zebra migration may be thundering through the Central Serengeti during these times.

Itinerary: You will be picked up at 5AM from your chosen lodge in the Central Serengeti and will be driven to your awaiting balloon near the Maasai Kopjes. If you have selected any of our private camping options in the Central Serengeti, your driver will transfer you to the Seronera Wildlife Lodge where you will meet up with the other guests. Keep eyes out for nocturnal predators as you may encounter them returning from their nightly hunting forays on your game drive to the launching site.

Arrive at the balloon-launching site for a quick briefing from your pilot. At dawn you will take off and float above the vast Serengeti while the sun rises over the savannah below. With a little luck you will have good game viewing opportunities while you drift above the Seronera River Valley. Please keep in mind that every flight is different and wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. However, you will undoubtedly enjoy the spectacular views and the serene quiet as you aimlessly drift along with the prevailing winds.

Your pilot can precisely control the altitude of your balloon while sometimes flying at treetop height and at other times ascending to 1000 feet. Flight time is about one hour depending upon conditions. Scout vehicles will track your location from the ground and will be waiting for you wherever the winds haven carried the balloon.

Your balloon safari ends with a champagne toast and an elegant breakfast at the landing site. Breakfast is served in the bush with silver, china and linen tablecloths. Breakfast consists of tropical fruits, warm freshly baked bread, eggs, sausage, bacon, mushroom and tomato. After breakfast you will be transferred to the Seronera Wildlife Lodge arriving at about 9.30AM. We will be waiting for you to continue the day's scheduled activities as indicated on your customized safari itinerary.