How To Plan A Balloon Safari in Tanzania

A hot air balloon flight is a truly authentic way to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking expanse of the Tanzanian landscapes.

Unlike other Tanzania safari experiences such as the classic game drives you can take in a 4×4 safari vehicle in almost all national parks in Tanzania, it is only possible to do a balloon safari in Tanzania in certain national parks.

Here is where you can do balloon safaris in Tanzania

Serengeti National Park

Due to the largest concentration of game on the continent and the Great Migration, the Serengeti is Africa’s most famous park and most of impressive nature documentaries were short in this beautiful savannah park.

A balloon safari in Serengeti gives you the best chance to see the Great Migration. Imagine the sight of the millions of wildebeests and thousands of Burchell’s zebras and gazelles as they run away from the preying lions and hyenas while you witness it in the air.

Ngorongoro Crater

Listed as one of Africa’s seven wonders, Ngorongoro Crater protected by Ngorongoro Conservation Area spans from Serengeti National Park in the north, to the Great Rift Valley in the east with an area of 8,000 square kilometers.

On a balloon safari in Ngorongoro Conservation you will have an opportunity to see the world’s largest unbroken volcanic caldera and a chance to spot the Big Five – lions, leopards, cape buffaloes, rhinos and elephants, as well as the Great Migration in the Ndutu Plains where calving season of the Great Migration takes place.

Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park is one of the lesser-known safari destinations in Tanzania and is one of the locations for a hot air balloon flight, the park is located in southern/central part of Tanzania giving visitors an opportunity to encounter an array of animals, including giraffes, zebras, ostriches, striped hyenas and hippos among others.

Tarangire National Park

Famous for its majestic Baobab trees and large herds of elephants, Tarangire National Park is an exhilarating location for a balloon safari in Tanzania. A flight over the stunning landscape of the park offers an opportunity to catch a glimpse of some of the enchanting bush elephants, hear the lions roar, and watch cheetahs race after their prey and large herds of elephants and other animals along the banks of Tarangire River.

The Cost of A Balloon Safari in Tanzania

The prices for balloon safaris in Tanzania are a bit higher than game drives, the costs vary significantly depending on the location, but generally, you should expect to pay more than you would for a single-day safari anywhere else.

For example, the average cost of a balloon safari in Serengeti National Park is US$ 599 per person for a flight of 50 to 70 minutes. In Tarangire National Park, the price is US$ 550 per person.

If you are interested in witnessing the Great Migration in Serengeti, planning your safari in the right time of the migration is essential.

Consider Your Safety

On a balloon safari, safety is paramount and should be taken as a top priority. Unlike a traditional safari where you are always secured in a safari vehicle, during a hot air balloon flight, you are hundreds of meters in the sky and have to trust the pilot with your well-being. That is why choosing a reputable operator who prioritizes safety and follows all necessary precautions to ensure a smooth and secure flight is very important.

When selecting an operator, here are some key safety questions you should ask.

• Do you work with licensed pilots who have extensive flight experience?
• Does your tour company conduct regular equipment checks and have approval from the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority (TCAA) to carry out balloon rides?
• What is the maximum number of passengers per balloon to make sure it is not overloaded?
• Does the package included insurance coverage?
• Are there specific weather conditions that would prevent you from flying?
• What are the weight restrictions for passengers?

Picking an Appropriate Time for your Balloon Safari

Balloon safari is hugely impacted by the weather. Any responsible tour operator will cancel a flight if conditions are too windy or if there is heavy rain. While a cancellation may be disappointing, it is ultimately for your safety. Rest assured, most contracts will specify that you will receive a full refund in the event of a no-takeoff, but it’s always wise to double-check the terms before committing.

Although it will be difficult to predict the weather on the day of your flight until closer to the time, planning your excursion during the dry season gives you the best chance of a successful take off. Dry season in Tanzania runs from the end of June to October, which are the prime months to go. However, keep in mind that these months are also the most popular, so prices can be higher due to increased demand. If you are willing to take a risk, the shoulder months of May and November might be worth a shot, though there is a higher likelihood of rain.

What is a Hot Air Balloon Safari in Tanzania Like?

Balloon safari rides in Tanzania take place early in the morning, allowing you to catch the sunrise and avoid the stronger winds later in the day. Be sure to dress warmly, though, as the early hours can be quite chilly even in Tanzania.

Your operator will pick you up from your camp at your chosen time and drive you to the launch site, where you will prepare for takeoff. As the engines hum up in the background you will receive a safety briefing and be shown what to do in the unlikely event of an emergency.

Once everything is ready, step into the basket and find a nice spot along the edges so nothing obstructs your view of the wildlife below. Soon, the basket will begin to rise, and before you know it, you will be treated to breathtaking views of your chosen Tanzania National Park. As you start to gain altitude, you will witness an array of fascinating wildlife, and your guide, using their binoculars will be able to point out some hidden animals along the way.

After spending some time high in the sky, you will then start your descent. Even as you slowly come down, you will see plenty of incredible attractions and even more animals.

When you land, a delicious safari spread will be waiting for you to celebrate your successful flight. From glasses of champagne to a hearty breakfast, you will be well-prepared for the day ahead, don’t forget to take some beautiful photos in front of the basket with your flight certificates, this balloon light is one you will definitely want to remember.

Frequently Asked Questions about Balloon Safaris in Tanzania

Are Balloon Safaris Safe?

Even though balloon safaris have an added risk, they are very safe once you go with an experienced operator who follows all the appropriate safety requirements. If you are unsure about an operator, feel free to ask them any of the questions we have listed above so you know you are in safe hands.

What Clothes Are Appropriate for Balloon Safaris?

Because you are in Tanzania, you might assume the temperatures will be high, but because most flights take off in the early morning hours, it can get quite cold up there. We recommend all passengers take a jacket with them and wear log trousers to cover their legs.

Some visitors might also want to take a hat and gloves for extra protection, but it isn’t always necessary.

What are the weight restrictions per person for a balloon safari?

Typically, safari companies set an average weight limit o 77kg per person for hot air balloon rides, but it varies. If a passenger exceeds this weight, they may be required to pay for an additional space so the weight is distributed properly for the flight.

This helps prevent any potential accidents from happening.

What is the minimum age someone needs to take part in balloon safari in Tanzania?

Most companies have their own rules for balloon safari, but generally a person should be at least six or seven years old to ride on a hot air balloon because of the weight distribution.

If the weather is bad, will my balloon ride be cancelled?

It all depends on how bad the weather conditions area and if there is slight rain or wind, you should be able to take off. However, if the conditions are dangerous, you won’t be able to start flying in the balloon until the weather clears, or the booking could be rescheduled for another day.

How many people can fit in a hot air balloon?

The maximum number of people allowed on a hot air balloon ride is 16, this is for safety purposes, although it depends on the size.