Kenya Safaris
Balloon Safari over the Maasai Mara
Overview
About this safari
A hot-air balloon is the perfect safari vehicle — gliding silently across the plains without disturbing the herds below. At the flick of the burner, the basket rises to a breathtaking high-altitude viewpoint, then drifts low across the grasslands.
Launched at dawn from several Mara lodges, this once-in-a-lifetime experience offers an unrivalled perspective on Kenya's scenic beauty and the wildlife below. Watch elephant, giraffe, buffalo and (in season) the wildebeest migration from the air, all in golden first light.
Touchdown is followed by a celebratory champagne bush breakfast served under an acacia tree — a memory that lasts a lifetime.
Highlights
What you'll experience
- Dawn lift-off from the Mara plains
- ~1 hour silent flight above the savanna
- Aerial views of wildlife and (seasonally) the Great Migration
- Expert FAA/Kenyan-licensed balloon pilot
- Champagne bush breakfast on landing
- Flight certificate and unforgettable photography
Day by Day
Itinerary
Day 1 - Sunrise above the Mara
Pre-dawn pick-up from your Mara lodge or camp. A short transfer to the launch site, safety briefing with the pilot, and sunrise lift-off as the burners fire. Drift for approximately one hour above the grasslands, then land for a celebratory champagne breakfast in the bush before returning to your lodge for a relaxed mid-morning.
Champagne bush breakfastOvernight: Return to your Mara lodge / camp
What's Included
- Hotel/camp pick-up and drop-off (within the Mara)
- Pre-flight briefing and safety equipment
- ~1 hour balloon flight with licensed pilot
- Full champagne bush breakfast
- Flight certificate
What's Excluded
- Transport to/from the Maasai Mara
- Park entry fees
- Tips
Good to Know
Before you travel
Best time to travel
Year-round. Migration season (Jul–Oct) offers the most dramatic aerial views.
What to pack
Layered warm clothing (early morning is cold), closed shoes, hat, camera.
Fitness level
Easy. You must be able to stand for the duration of the flight (~1 hour).
Frequently Asked
Questions about this safari
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