Exploring Serengeti National Park in Tanzania: Balloon Safari at Dawn

If you’re looking for an experience you’ll never forget, a Serengeti National Park balloon safari is the ideal adventure. Located in Tanzania, the Serengeti is one of the most unique and amazing biosphere reserves on the planet. Filled with an abundance of wildlife, including the iconic Big Five (elephants, rhinoceros, buffalo, lions, and leopards), the Serengeti hums with an energy and beauty unequaled anywhere else on the African continent.

One of the best ways to experience the majestic Serengeti is to take a balloon safari at dawn. Nothing compares to the views you get as you float high above the horizon and witness first-hand the staggering breadth and diversity of the Serengeti landscape. Ornithologists will appreciate bird-watching opportunities, while bigger game-viewers will have their cameras ready for the majestic wildebeest herds migrating across the plains.

In this guide, we’ll discuss all the details you need to know before setting off on your own Serengeti balloon safari experience – from safety considerations to best times to view animals from above.

How do balloon safaris work?

A balloon safari involves riding in a large hot air balloon that rises into the air and remains hovering (or floating) at its peak height, so that passengers can take in the scenery around them. Each balloon is operated by a professionally trained pilot who decides when and how high it will ascend. During the course of the flight, passengers may also be shown some of the flora and fauna endemic to the region as they travel.

When is the best time to go on a balloon safari?

The best time to go on a Serengeti balloon safari is early in the morning at dawn (before sunrise). This is when the air is stillest, meaning that the balloon can have a more level flight and maximize viewing opportunities for passengers. In addition, this is when animals such as elephants, giraffes, and zebra can be seen making their morning rounds so you can spot them from up high.

How long does a balloon safari last?

A typical balloon safari lasts about two hours, but you should expect that to include all of the pre-flight preparations and the actual flying time. It generally takes around one hour for passengers to arrive at the launch site from their hotel locations and for crew members to mentally and physically prepare for launch. Once everything is ready to go though, most operators will offer a 60–90 minutes ride.

What kind of safety precautions are taken?

Safety is of utmost important during all balloon safaris—especially over dense populations of wild animals like those found in Serengeti National Park. Pilots undergo rigorous training to ensure all rides are super safe and reliable. In addition, each balloon basket is thoroughly inspected before each flight and several backup safety measures are in place in case of any malfunctions. In short, you can rest assured that safety comes first and no chances are ever taken when it comes to passenger safety.

What wildlife can I spot from above?

The Serengeti is famed for its abundance of wildlife, including iconic animals like elephants, rhinoceros, buffalo, lions, cheetahs, wildebeest, zebras, gazelles, impala, ostriches, elands, hippos, hyenas and more. With some luck you can also spot birds like flamingos, cranes, pelicans and storks from way up high!

Can I take pictures during my balloons safari?

Absolutely! Taking pictures of your balloon safari experience is encouraged – just make sure that cameras are well secured while your balloon moves in order to prevent accidental shooting. Pilots also allow passengers to get close-up shots of game animals when they’re spotted – so keep your camera readily available! If you think weather conditions may be too turbulent for handheld cameras, try a tripod to get some steady shots on your flight.

Where can I book a balloon safari?

For those travelers wishing to experience a once-in-a-lifetime balloon safari in the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania, GetYourGuide offers a comprehensive package encompassing everything from transport services to a professional guide escorting you throughout your tour. With professional services and quality assurance guaranteed, your balloon safari will be one that you’ll never forget!

If there’s one thing you should do during your trip to Tanzania and/or Kenya, taking a balloon safari over Serengeti National Park is it! Experience something that everyone should have once in life – and have it in Tanzania’s most famous national park! By taking a balloon safari with GetYourGuide you can rest assured that your once-in-a-lifetime experience will be right out of your dreams! So what are you waiting for? Book your Serengeti National Park Balloon Safari today!