Have you ever wondered what it would be like to fly over the Serengeti and see the animals from the sky? That’s exactly what I did during my Serengeti hot air balloon safari, and let me tell you—it was an experience like no other!
Why You Should Try a Serengeti Hot Air Balloon Ride
The day began before sunrise. Around 5:00 AM, I was picked up from my lodge, and we made our way to Seronera Lodge, where the adventure would begin. It was still dark outside, and the air was cool, but I felt the excitement building inside me.
By 6:00 AM, we were on our way to the balloon launch site, a 40-minute drive in a Land Rover. As the sun slowly began to rise, I could see the sky turning pink and orange, and the view was already stunning. When we arrived, the balloon was being prepared. Watching the balloon fill up with air as the sun rose behind it was magical.
Before I knew it, it was time to board. We got a quick safety briefing, and then we were off—slowly lifting into the air. The feeling was smooth and gentle, like floating, and soon we were high above the Serengeti plains.
Serengeti Balloon Safari: An Unforgettable Experience
From up there, the view was breathtaking. We climbed as high as 1,000 feet, looking out over the endless plains, dotted with animals. I saw herds of wildebeest, zebras, and elephants moving below us. At times, we drifted lower, flying just above the treetops for a closer view of the wildlife.
One of the things that surprised me the most was the quiet. The balloon uses special “whisper” burners to minimize noise, so most of the time, there was complete silence. It was peaceful, almost dreamlike, and I felt completely connected to the Serengeti landscape.
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After about an hour of flying, it was time to land. Our pilot brought the balloon down near a game trail, and the crew was there to meet us. We celebrated with a champagne toast—a tradition after a successful flight—and then we were taken to a beautiful spot under a tree where breakfast was waiting.
The breakfast was a full English-style meal, freshly cooked and served right there on the plains. As we ate, we took in the incredible surroundings. It felt surreal to enjoy such a luxurious meal in the middle of the Serengeti.
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Before heading back, we were given certificates to mark the adventure, a little reminder of the incredible journey we had just experienced. By 9:30 AM, we were back at the lodge, but the memories of the morning stayed with me all day—and likely forever.
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If you’re visiting the Serengeti, I highly recommend the hot air balloon safari. Yes, it’s a bit expensive, but it’s worth every penny. The views, the wildlife, the peaceful silence, and the adventure itself make it an unforgettable experience, and for many people, it’s the highlight of their trip.
So, if you’re dreaming of an adventure that lets you see the Serengeti in a way most people never will, book a hot air balloon safari. It’s an experience like no other, and one you’ll never forget!
