Extraordinary Hot air Bolloon ride in Serengeti | BURIGI CHATO SAFARIS CO L.T.D

Travelers seeking a true sense of adventure often dream of seeing Africa’s most iconic landscapes from a bird’s-eye view. One of the most memorable ways to do that is by taking a hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti.

While we haven’t personally flown in this particular balloon, descriptions from delighted travelers suggest it offers a rare blend of breathtaking scenery, exciting wildlife sightings, and a touch of luxury—all at a reasonable price for such a unique experience.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines adventure and comfort—the early morning pickup, the serene flight over the plains, and the celebratory bush breakfast afterward. Plus, the group discount and included amenities make it a good value for those wanting a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The main thing to consider is the weather—rain or strong winds can delay or cancel flights, which is typical for balloon safaris. If you love wildlife and panoramic views, this will likely be a highlight of your safari trip.

It’s especially suited for travelers who value authentic experiences and don’t mind waking up early for a special adventure.

This experience made our article of Top 12 Tours & Things To Do In Serengeti.

Key Points

• Unparalleled views of the Serengeti from a hot air balloon, floating over herds and wildlife.
• Morning timing offers the best light and wildlife activity, with pickup around 5:00 am.
• Includes a bush breakfast with champagne, adding a touch of luxury to the adventure.
• Weather-dependent activity, with rain or wind potentially delaying or cancelling flights.
• Cost of $710 per person, which provides a memorable experience comparable to other premium safaris.
• All fees and taxes included, simplifying the booking process.

An In-Depth Look at the Serengeti Balloon Safari

The Experience Begins with Early Morning Pickup

Your adventure starts just before dawn, around 5:00 am, when your guide from Burigi Chato Safaris picks you up from your lodge in Serengeti. This early start is a key part of the experience—witnessing the quiet of dawn as you head to the launch site adds to the magic. The transfer is in an air-conditioned vehicle, comfortable after a chilly night, and sets the tone for the adventure ahead.

Once at the Maasai Copjes, you’ll meet your pilot for a briefing. This moment is critical—they explain safety procedures and share some interesting facts about ballooning. Watching the balloon being prepared is also part of the fun—these enormous, colorful envelopes are impressive in their own right.

The Flight: Floating Over the Great Plains

At dawn, the balloon gently lifts off, rising as the sun begins to glow. The timing ensures you’ll see the Serengeti waking up—lions stretching in the early light, herds of wildebeest moving across the plains, and elephants ambling through the acacia trees. Travelers describe the ride as “unforgettable,” with some noting the pilot’s skill in controlling altitude for optimal wildlife viewing—sometimes flying just above treetops, other times higher for a broader perspective.

The flight lasts roughly an hour, which is enough time to soak in the vastness of the landscape. You might find yourself close enough to wildlife to see details like lion manes or giraffe patterns, all while floating serenely through the cool morning air. Because the balloon drifts with the wind, each flight feels like a unique journey—no two are exactly alike, adding to the sense of adventure.

Wildlife and Landscape

The Serengeti is famous for its big herds and the Big-5, and from the balloon, you’ll get a spectacular vantage point. Multiple reviews highlight how stunning the views are, with one traveler saying, “Catch the group of wildebeest in the plains from the balloon, it is a one-hour unforgettable moment.” If you’re lucky and it’s the right season, you could even glimpse the great migration, which is an incredible sight to behold from above.

Flying at different heights provides varied perspectives—sometimes flying just above the treetops offers an immersive wildlife encounter, while higher altitudes reveal the sprawling landscape dotted with animals and the winding rivers crisscrossing the plains.

Landing and Celebratory Breakfast

After the flight, everyone gathers to celebrate in traditional style—crisp champagne and a hearty full English breakfast in the bush. This part of the experience is where the adventure turns into a celebration of nature’s grandeur, with linen tablecloths and fine silver adding a dash of elegance amidst the wild surroundings.

Multiple reviews mention this meal as a highlight—a perfect reward for the early morning effort and a chance to reflect on the sights seen. The breakfast takes place outdoors, with the Serengeti’s sounds in the background, making it feel like a genuine “Out of Africa” moment.

Return to the Lodge and Day Continues

With certificates in hand, you’ll be driven back to your lodge, ready to continue your safari journey. The whole experience, from pickup to breakfast, is designed to be seamless and memorable—a rare blend of adventure, comfort, and authentic wilderness immersion.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price ($710 per person) are all fees and taxes, breakfast, pick-up and drop-off, and the flight itself. The tour also offers group discounts and the convenience of mobile tickets, making it straightforward to book and plan.

Not included are flights to and from Tanzania, visas, hotel accommodations outside the safari, tips, and travel or medical insurance. It’s worth budgeting for these extras to avoid surprises.

Practical Considerations

Since weather can influence your plans, it’s good to be flexible with your schedule. The dry season (June to October) offers the best chances for successful flights, but some rides are available in the rainy months, depending on conditions. Travelers with mobility concerns might want to check with the operator, but most participants find it accessible.

Meeting Point and Timing

Start your day early in Seronera, with activities beginning at 7:00 am. The experience concludes back at the meeting point, enabling you to make the most of your day afterward. The tour’s small group size (up to 49 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience, and most travelers agree that the early wake-up is well worth it.

Authentic Reviews from Travelers

A range of reviews echo the positive tone of this experience. One traveler raved, “I enjoyed the way customers are treated and respected with Burigi-Chato safaris,” highlighting excellent service. Another described the views as “unmissable”, emphasizing the thrill of spotting wildebeest from above. Many appreciated the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery, calling the experience “amazing,” “unforgettable,” and “incredible.”

The common theme is that this balloon safari is a highlight of any Serengeti trip—offering a perspective you simply can’t get from the ground. The combination of wildlife sightings, panoramic vistas, and the luxurious breakfast makes it a well-rounded adventure.

The Sum Up

This Serengeti hot air balloon safari offers an extraordinary viewpoint of one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes. For around $710, you get a captivating flight, a champagne celebration, and a hearty bush breakfast—all packed into a roughly 1.5-hour adventure. The experience is especially suited for travelers who value authentic wildlife encounters combined with a touch of luxury, and who are willing to wake early for a truly special moment.

The tour’s emphasis on safety, professionalism, and authentic surroundings means you’re in good hands, with plenty of opportunities for stunning photos and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a lover of scenic views, or simply seeking a unique story to tell, this balloon safari can elevate your Serengeti experience beyond the usual.

While weather remains the main variable, the chance to float above the plains, watch herds and predators from a peaceful altitude, and celebrate with champagne in the wilderness makes this a worthwhile consideration for your Tanzania adventure. It’s a blend of thrill, spectacle, and comfort—perfect for those who want to see the Serengeti’s grandeur from the skies.

FAQs

Is transportation provided to the balloon launch site?
Yes, pickup is included from your lodge or camp in Serengeti, making the start of your adventure smooth and convenient.

What time does the tour begin?
Activities start at around 7:00 am, with pickup at approximately 5:00 am, ensuring you catch the dawn flight.

How long does the entire experience last?
The balloon flight itself lasts about one hour, but the entire experience—including pickup, briefing, breakfast, and return—may take a few hours total.

What should I wear for the flight?
Comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for early morning temperatures is advisable. Layers are recommended, as mornings can be cool before the sun heats the plains.

Can weather affect the flight?
Absolutely. If weather conditions—such as rain or strong winds—are unfavorable, flights might be delayed or canceled. Flexibility is a good idea.

What is included in the price?
All fees and taxes, breakfast, and transportation are included. The price does not cover international flights, visas, or personal extras.

Who is the ideal traveler for this tour?
Anyone eager to see the Serengeti from a unique vantage point, wildlife lovers, and those wanting a memorable, luxurious adventure will find this tour appealing.

This hot air balloon safari in Serengeti with Burigi Chato Safaris offers a rare chance to witness Africa’s vast wilderness from above—images that will stay with you long after your return. For those who seek a blend of adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters, it’s an experience worth considering.