Balloon Safaris in Tanzania
Serengeti, Tarangire, Ruaha & Ngorongoro
Fly Silently Over Tanzania’s Wild Savannah as the Sun Rises
A hot air balloon safari in Tanzania’s Serengeti, Tarangire, Ruaha National Park, or Ngorongoro Conservation Area is nothing short of magical.
Before sunrise, in the crisp morning air, you’ll travel by safari vehicle through the wilderness, headlights illuminating antelopes leaping across the track. Arriving at the launch site, you step into the basket, feel the warmth of the burners, and gently rise into the African dawn.
From above, watch the first rays of sunlight paint the endless plains, rivers, and acacia-dotted savannahs. Below, elephants roam, giraffes browse the treetops, and wildebeest move in great herds. After a gentle landing, celebrate with a champagne toast and a bush breakfast beneath the shade of a giant acacia tree.
Who Should Experience a Balloon Safari?
Romantic, serene, and unforgettable, a balloon safari in Tanzania is perfect for life’s most special occasions.
Whether you’re a honeymoon couple, an anniversary celebrant, or simply a dreamer seeking peace and beauty, this experience will stay in your heart forever.
Baskets can be private for couples and families, or shared with small groups of up to 16 guests.
Perfect for:
- Honeymooners and romantic getaways
- Serenity seekers
- Nature lovers and photographers
- Families celebrating milestones
Best Places for Balloon Safaris in Tanzania
Tanzania is home to some of the most iconic wildlife landscapes in Africa, and balloon safaris offer a unique perspective on these legendary areas.
Serengeti National Park & Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Fly over the world-famous Serengeti, with seasonal views of the Great Wildebeest Migration in central, western, southern, and northern regions. From above, you’ll witness rivers winding through golden grasslands, predators stalking prey, and the sheer scale of this vast ecosystem.
Ruaha National Park & Tarangire National Park
Glide above colossal baobab trees, winding rivers, and large herds of elephants and buffalo. These parks offer exceptional wildlife densities and fewer crowds, making them ideal for a more secluded adventure.
When to Go – Balloon Safari Seasons
Hot air balloon flights require calm skies and steady winds, conditions that Tanzania enjoys most mornings year-round. Each season offers a different kind of beauty:
Dry Season – June to October, and January to February
- Best for clear views, concentrated wildlife, and the wildebeest migration.
- Lower vegetation makes spotting animals from above easier.
- Popular with photographers seeking golden, dust-kissed light.
Green Season – March to May
- Lush, vibrant landscapes, dramatic skies, and crystal-clear post-rain visibility.
- A photographer’s dream for color, contrast, and atmosphere.
What to Expect on a Balloon Safari
Your day begins early, around 4:00 am, with a drive to the launch site. After a safety briefing, you’ll take off around sunrise for a one-hour flight, drifting quietly over Tanzania’s untamed wilderness.
Upon landing, tradition calls for a champagne celebration, followed by a full bush breakfast served under the open sky.
Planning Your Balloon Safari
- Booking: Balloon safaris can be added to any of our tailored Tanzania itineraries covering Serengeti, Tarangire, Ruaha, or Ngorongoro.
- Who Can Fly: Suitable for guests aged 7+, with no upper age limit. Not recommended for those with serious back, neck, or heart conditions, or during pregnancy.
- Clothing: Mornings are chilly; wear layered clothing, long sleeves, trousers, and a hat. Bring binoculars, sunscreen, and a camera.
- Fear of Heights: Most guests, even those nervous about heights, find the flight gentle and comfortable. The basket is stable, and there’s no swaying motion.
Safety First
With over 30 years of experience, our partner operators maintain the highest safety standards. Balloons are regularly replaced after limited flight hours, and pilots are highly trained in weather assessment and navigation.
Should weather conditions be unsuitable, flights are rescheduled or refunded to ensure guest safety.
Family-Friendly Balloon Safaris
Children aged 7 and above can join, and younger children (from 6 years, 1.4m tall, and able to follow instructions) may participate using a safety cushion and seatbelt. For younger kids, a chaperone can accompany them on the ground to meet you at the landing site and join the bush breakfast.
Make Your Tanzania Balloon Safari a Reality
Add a hot air balloon safari to your Tanzania adventure and experience the magic of the African wilderness from an entirely new perspective. Our expert travel planners will arrange everything, from your lodge to your flight, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable journey.