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

The Thrill of Soaring Above Africa

There’s something truly special about the feeling of soaring high above the African plains. While waking up at the crack of dawn during your vacation might not sound like the most appealing idea, the experience of a hot air balloon ride more than makes up for it. The thrill of the adventure far outweighs the early start. 

As you head towards the launch site with your guide, you’ll start to feel the excitement build. Sip on a steaming cup of coffee or tea as the balloon crew prepares the balloon for takeoff. Once it’s inflated and you’re safely in the basket, the pilot will give you a quick briefing before lifting off. As the sun begins to rise, painting the sky in breathtaking shades of red and gold, your balloon will gently rise, giving you a view you won’t soon forget.

A Bird’s-Eye View of the Great Migration

If your visit to the Masai Mara falls between July and October, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to witness the ‘Great Migration’ from the sky. There’s no experience quite like watching the massive herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles moving across the plains. 

From your hot air balloon, you’ll get a unique perspective of this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon. You may even catch sight of predators, like lions on the hunt or leopards resting in the trees. Every flight offers a fresh chance to see new wildlife and landscapes below. Your pilot will also fly lower at times to give you the perfect opportunity for photos.

Why a Masai Mara Balloon Ride Costs More

Hot air ballooning in remote regions like the Masai Mara does come with a hefty price tag, starting at around $450 per person. The high cost can be attributed to several factors. Balloons have a limited lifespan—once they reach approximately 850 flight hours, they must be replaced to maintain safety. 

Additionally, the cost of fuel and the team needed to operate the balloon contribute to the expense. A typical crew includes a licensed balloon pilot and six crew members, with another ten people working behind the scenes to get each balloon airborne. Other costs include recovery vehicles, transfer services, and backup operations. A significant portion of the fees also goes toward conservation efforts.

What’s Included in Your Balloon Safari Experience

When you book a hot air balloon safari, here’s what you can expect:

• A one-hour hot air balloon ride

• Transfers to and from your safari lodge or camp

• A champagne-style breakfast in the bush

• Return transport to your camp after the breakfast

• National reserve or conservancy landing fees

Planning Your Masai Mara Balloon Adventure

We can help you arrange your hot air balloon experience from most lodges and camps in the Greater Mara area. It’s a highly sought-after activity, especially during peak season, so booking well in advance is strongly recommended. Don’t forget to pack some warm clothing and a bag to secure your camera, binoculars, and other personal items during the flight.

What Happens If the Weather Doesn’t Permit Flying?

Your safety is the top priority for the hot air ballooning team. If the weather doesn’t permit safe flying conditions, your flight may be canceled. If that happens, you’ll be scheduled for a later flight if possible. If rescheduling isn’t an option, you’ll receive a full refund.