Whether you choose to take to the skies on a hot air balloon safari in Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, or any other captivating destination in Africa, it offers a unique perspective few will ever be lucky enough to see. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare yourself for soaring through the clouds as if in a dream.
What’s it like to hot air balloon over Africa?
Hot air ballooning over Africa offers an exhilarating opportunity to witness the splendour of our continent from a whole new perspective. As you ascend into the sky, you'll be greeted by panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. From rolling savannah and lush grasslands to winding rivers and majestic mountains, the diverse landscapes will leave you mesmerised.
But it's not just the landscapes that will captivate your attention. The wondrous wildlife also takes centre stage during your hot air balloon safari. You'll have the opportunity to observe various animals in their natural habitat. And with a bird’s-eye view, you’ll see more than you ever could on the ground! From spotting huge herds of elephants to watching graceful towers of giraffes from above, it will make you feel invincible!
Typically, you can expect to spend anywhere between 1-3.5 hours in the air, depending on the destination and weather conditions. Larger balloons have spacious baskets that can accommodate up to 16 people, ensuring everyone has a "window seat" to admire the view.
Where to go on a hot air balloon safari in Africa?
Experience the excitement of a hot air balloon safari in Africa with us. Each country offers something special, from the vast savannah plains of Kenya and Tanzania to the eerily isolated dunes in Namibia and the wildlife-rich bush in South Africa.
Hot air balloon safaris in Kenya
A hot air balloon safari in Kenya offers an enchanting way to ooh and aah over the landscapes and abundant wildlife this country is known for. You can expect to spot elephants, giraffes, antelope, zebras, gazelles, and wildebeest congregating below.
Drifting above the golden plains on a hot air balloon safari in the Maasai Mara, you'll witness its iconic savannah teeming with life. If you visit during the Great Wildebeest Migration, you'll have the opportunity to witness millions of wildebeest, zebras, and antelope flood the open plains on their annual pilgrimage.
Hot air balloon safaris in Tanzania
Don't miss out on an adventure of a lifetime on a hot air balloon safari in Tanzania, with brilliant views of the endless grasslands dotted with acacia trees and whistling thorns. From your aerial vantage point, keep your eyes peeled for the Big 5, grazing antelope, zebras, giraffes, and wildebeest… lots and lots of wildebeest!
Why not trade a typical morning 4x4 game drive for a hot air balloon safari in the Serengeti? It's a fantastic way to watch the Great Migration from above. After your adventure in the sky, enjoy a bubbly breakfast in the shade of a giant acacia tree to start the day on an even better note.
Hot air balloon safaris in Namibia
For a completely different landscape, opt for a hot air balloon safari in Namibia. Combining the gold-orange dunes and the hues of fiery red, orange, and soft pastel pinks painted by the rising sun is a spellbinding view that'll show you just how utterly magnificent our home continent is.
Enjoy the views from the sky while trying to spot the desert-adapted wildlife going about their daily routines. Oryx, ostriches, and springbok are all on the list of possible sightings in the Sossusvlei area. Still, the real showstopper is the vibrant palette of colours adorning the Namib desert's stretching dunes.
Where is the best place to hot air balloon in South Africa?
When it comes to hot air ballooning in South Africa, you have plenty of options to choose from. Located a three-hour drive outside Johannesburg, Pilanesberg National Park is set in an ancient volcanic crater. This wildlife-rich national park is home to the iconic Big 5, with frequent sightings around Mankwe Dam. Or enjoy the scenic Panorama Route and behold the beauty of the Drakensberg mountains and the stunning Blyde River Canyon from above.
Make the most of your layover in Johannesburg with a hot air balloon safari over the magnificent Magaliesberg mountains and the Cradle of Humankind. And, of course, there's our beloved Cape Winelands, where you can marvel at the verdant vineyards, picturesque valleys, and dramatic mountains from above.
When should you go on a hot air balloon safari?
A hot air balloon safari is a year-round activity, but it's important to note that it's weather dependent. To witness the Great Migration in East Africa from above, the best time to go depends on whether you would like to see this natural spectacle in Kenya or Tanzania. Our Travel Experts will ensure you get a front-row seat and recommend the best times to plan your visit.
Keep in mind that hot air balloon tours usually begin before sunrise. But even if you're not usually an early riser, it will be so worth it when you witness the magical moments of dawn and the serene beauty of the African landscape.
Is going on a hot air balloon safari worth it?
A hot air balloon safari in Africa is absolutely worth your time and money! Picture yourself soaring above the African landscapes during a breathtaking sunrise, with the gentle breeze guiding you through the air. And the adventure doesn't end there. Why not indulge in a delightful bubbly breakfast under an acacia tree?
Whether you're celebrating a special occasion like a proposal, honeymoon, wedding anniversary, or birthday, a hot air balloon safari adds that touch of magic and creates memories that'll last a lifetime.
How much does a hot air balloon safari cost?
Here at Rhino Africa, we love hot air balloon safari adventures! We try to go on one every opportunity we get as there’s really nothing like that weightless feeling of soaring over our continent’s vast landscapes.
Adding a hot air balloon safari to your safari itinerary is an exciting option that our Travel Experts are more than happy to arrange for you. A hot air balloon safari price varies depending on the country.
In Kenya and Namibia, prices start from around 450 USD per person, while in Tanzania, prices start from about 600 USD per person.
In South Africa, you can enjoy a scenic or safari flight starting from 200 USD per person.
Please note that these prices are approximate and may vary.
Don't miss the opportunity to embark on this unforgettable adventure during your African safari. Contact our Travel Experts today to add an African hot air balloon safari to your itinerary.
