Hot air ballooning in the Serengeti was a truly a remarkable experience. While we were on our African Safari we went by the saying, “when in Africa”. In other words, we wanted to experience everything during our time there, including a hot-air balloon ride.
// The Experience //
We booked our hot-air balloon experience while we were in the North Serengeti. It was actually our last morning before flying to Rwanda so we thought we may as well end with a bang.
The day started with us being picked up at 4.45am by the Serengeti Balloon Safaris company. After spending an hour in the car we came across a lioness who had just recently made a kill, it was quite a sight to see just as you wake up! It was still dark in the sky as we stood around waiting for the team to prep the hot-air balloon. To our luck we were the only ones who had booked the hot-air balloon for the morning, so we managed to score ourselves a private tour! The day ends with a luscious breakfast included in the ticket price. Which may be quite expensive ($500usd), but it is highly unlikely you will get the chance to do this again in Africa!
// Up, Up and Away //
The hot-air balloon lifted off the ground as the sun rose. We both looked at each other a few times with a touch of nervousness as the balloon slowly rose higher about the ground.
As we floated through the air we looked in awe at the vast land below us. Being above ground gave us a completely different perspective. We followed the Mara River where the wildebeest and zebras were doing their annual migration as well as watched as hyenas sulked through the long grass.
While an African Safari itself is an incredible experience, watching on from above gave us a whole new understanding of how large the Serengeti really is and how truly incredible Africa really is!
//Wildebeest Migration from Above! //
A few photos to convince you that you must go during the wildebeest migration season. Late August through late September if you want to see a river crossing like us!
// Hot Air Balloon Serengeti //
X KoTravellers
To see more follow our Instagram account: @KoTravellers
