Soaring Above the Serengeti

A Hot Air Balloon Safari Experience – Enjoy a first-hand account of a bucket list experience, through the eyes of Travel Manager Alli Senger

Imagine floating above the vast plains of the Serengeti as a breathtaking panorama of wildlife and landscapes unfolds beneath you. This is the magic of a hot air balloon safari. An unforgettable experience that combines adventure, tranquility, and a deep connection with nature.

The Early Morning Ascent

Our adventure began bright and early at 5 AM and the excitement of what lay ahead was palpable. We left our accommodations in the Serengeti National Park and ventured into the stillness of the pre-dawn. The anticipation built as we approached the balloon launch site and the peacefulness of the early morning set the stage for the magic to come.

A Bird’s-Eye View of the Serengeti

As the sun began to rise, our hot air balloon slowly inflated, coming to life before our eyes. After a quick but crucial safety briefing, we stepped into the basket and prepared ourselves for takeoff. With a gentle lift, we ascended into the air and were immediately mesmerized by the vast expanse of the Serengeti unfolding beneath us.

Floating high above the plains, the experience was more than just a wildlife observation; it was a moment of serenity. The crisp morning air wrapped around us as we drifted with the gentle breeze, taking in the spectacular landscape below. The colors of the sunrise reflected off the grasses, and the endless savanna stretched out in every direction. A breathtaking reminder of nature’s vastness.

Though the dry season (June to October) is renowned for hot air balloon safaris as the chance of witnessing the Great Migration is higher, we had the pleasure of visiting in April. This is typically considered the ‘low season’, yet for us this was an ideal time. The parks were quieter, the lands were lush and the wildlife was abundant. Below us, we caught sight of a stream of wildebeest, elephant, antelope and more – a powerful testament to the circle of life in the Serengeti.

A Moment of Serenity

As we floated above this incredible landscape, I understood why this experience is often described as a “bucket-list item”, or “life-changing”. It’s not just about the incredible sights you get to take in, it’s also about the feeling this experience invokes. The thrill of flying, the tranquility of the early morning and the connection to nature that left me speechless. 

A Memorable Conclusion

After a breathtaking hour or so in the air, we descended gently back to earth. Upon landing we were treated to a celebratory toast with bubbly—a balloonist’s tradition—and a delightful bush breakfast in the heart of the Serengeti. It was the perfect way to reflect on the adventure we’d just had.

Experience this with Roane Travel Design

A Serengeti hot air balloon safari is an experience I would wholeheartedly recommend. It’s a journey that transcends sightseeing and provides an intimate connection to the beauty of one of the world’s most iconic places. If you ever have the opportunity to take to the skies over the Serengeti, don’t hesitate—10/10 would recommend! Inspired? See our Tanzania Sample Itinerary.