Masai Mara Hot Air Balloon Safari flights - Experience the Masai Mara plains from above

Flying High with Hot Air Balloon

Nothing quite compares to the sense of freedom and exhilaration when floating effortlessly above the African plains. While waking up at dawn during your vacation might seem daunting, the rewards of this elevated safari experience far outweigh the inconvenience of setting an early alarm between 4:00 – 5:00 AM. As your guide escorts you to the top air balloon launch site, anticipation builds. Savor a steaming cup of coffee or tea as the balloon crew inflates the balloon and prepares for take-off. Once the balloon is filled and you’re nestled in the basket, your pilot will conduct a brief safety briefing before setting the hot air balloon in motion. As the sun rises in a stunning display of fiery reds and golds, your balloon will gently ascend into the sky.

Hot Air Ballooning and the Great Wildebeest Migration

Visiting the Masai Mara between July and October offers a chance to witness the ‘Great Migration‘ and abundant wildlife from above. Observing the wildebeest migration, along with herds of zebras and gazelles, from a hot air or balloon flight is an extraordinary way to appreciate the magnitude of this phenomenon. Other thrilling sights include watching predators like lions on the hunt, spotting leopards perched in trees, and witnessing active hyena dens. Each hot air balloon ride presents opportunities to see new and exciting sights below from an aerial view. Your pilot will occasionally fly lower to enable the best possible wildlife photography moments.

Cost of Masai Mara Hot Air Balloon Flight

Hot air balloon safaris can be costly, especially in remote areas like the Masai Mara. Prices for a hot air balloon ride start at US$ 500 per person. This cost is partly due to the limited lifespan of balloons, which must be replaced after approximately 850 flight hours to ensure passenger safety. Additionally, the expenses of fuel and the balloon crew contribute to the price. The crew consists of six members and a licensed top air balloon pilot, with an additional ten support staff responsible for launching each balloon. This collective effort supports the livelihoods of many, with a portion of the fees dedicated to conservation efforts.

The balloon safari price includes:

• Approximately one-hour hot air balloon flight

• Transfer from your safari camp or lodge

• Champagne-style bush breakfast

• Transfer back to camp after breakfast

• Masai Mara game reserve or Conservancy or national reserve landing fees

Plan Your Masai Mara Balloon Safari

We can organize departures for a Masai Mara balloon safari from most lodges and camps in the Greater Mara region. We highly recommend booking your balloon safari in advance, as it’s a popular activity that fills up quickly, especially during peak season. Remember to bring warm clothing and a bag to secure your balloons, your camera, binoculars, and other personal items.

What happens if the weather is poor?

In case the hot air balloon flight is canceled due to unfavorable weather conditions, rest assured that safety is the top priority for the ballooning crew. If weather conditions are not suitable, your flight may be rescheduled for a later time. If rescheduling your flight is not possible, a refund will be provided.