4 min read
A hot air balloon safari is one of the most breathtaking, peaceful, and unforgettable experiences you can have in Kenya. Floating silently above vast golden plains as the sun rises and wildlife roams below. If you think a normal game drive is exciting, wait until you see the African savannah from the sky.
Here are some reasons why you should add a hot air balloon to your next safari adventure
Sunrise Like You’ve Never Seen Before
Your day starts before dawn, when the world is still quiet, and the sky is painted in deep blues and purples. As the balloon inflates and gently lifts off, the first rays of sunlight begin to spill over the horizon. From above, you’ll watch the savannah slowly come to life, a glowing, golden landscape stretching as far as the eye can see. It’s peaceful, surreal, and honestly feels like a scene straight out of a movie.
Wildlife Viewing From the Sky
One of the most incredible parts of a hot-air balloon safari is spotting wildlife from an eagle's-eye view. As you float silently above the plains (usually over the Maasai Mara or Amboseli), you may see:
• Elephants moving in family groups
• Giraffes walking gracefully between acacia trees
• Herds of wildebeest and zebras grazing
• Lions and other predators returning from their night hunts
Because the balloon moves quietly with the wind, animals below often remain relaxed and undisturbed, giving you natural, authentic views of wildlife in their habitat.
A Photographer’s Dream
If you love photography, this experience is next level. The soft morning light, long shadows, mist over the plains, and wildlife scattered across the landscape create perfect conditions for stunning photos and videos. Whether you’re using a professional camera or just your phone, you’ll capture once-in-a-lifetime shots you’ll never stop looking back on. And yes, your camera roll will be very full after this.
Bush Breakfast in the Wild
After about an hour in the air, the balloon gently lands, and the adventure continues. You’ll be treated to a full bush breakfast (also known as champagne breakfast) set up right in the middle of the wilderness. Think fresh fruits, pastries, eggs, sausages, coffee, tea, all served in a beautiful outdoor setting surrounded by nature. It’s the perfect way to celebrate an unforgettable flight. Most balloon safaris even include a little bubbly to toast the experience. Because why not?
Peaceful, Romantic, and Unforgettable
Unlike a vehicle safari, a hot air balloon ride is calm and quiet. There’s no engine noise, just the occasional burst from the burner and the sounds of nature below.
It’s perfect for:
• Honeymoons and anniversaries
• Special birthdays
• Surprise proposals
• Or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary
It’s not just a safari activity, it’s a memory you’ll talk about for the rest of your life.
Where Can You Do a Hot Air Balloon Safari?
The most popular place for balloon safaris in Kenya is the Maasai Mara, famous for its incredible wildlife and wide open landscapes. It’s especially spectacular during the Great Migration, when thousands of wildebeest and zebras move across the plains. Balloon safaris are also done in Amboseli National Park; however, not as common as in Masai Mara. Balloon safaris are usually done early in the morning and can easily be added to your Maasai Mara itinerary.
Is It Worth It?
Short answer: Absolutely. A hot air balloon safari is one of those rare experiences that truly lives up to the hype. It combines adventure, beauty, wildlife, and pure serenity in a way that very few activities in the world can match. If you want your Kenya safari to be more than just a trip or unforgettable, this is the upgrade you don’t want to miss.
Ready to Float Over the Mara or Amboseli?
We’d love to help you include a hot air balloon safari in your Kenya adventure. From park stays to full safari planning, we’ll make sure every detail is handled so you can simply relax and enjoy the view from above.
Get in touch with us today and let’s start planning your once-in-a-lifetime safari experience.
