Visitors to the Masai Mara can experience the rare excitement of game viewing from a hot air balloon. In the crisp air of dawn, the passengers drink coffee while the crew partially inflates the balloon with enormous fans. The gas burners are then ignited and the balloon fills with hot air slowly raising the baskets. Before departing, finalized checks are made, and the passengers then climb into the balloon basket for a take off.
The balloons lift off just before sunrise when the breeze on the plains is still cold. Once airborne, the balloons are blown by the prevailing winds across the broad landscape. Apart from the hiss of the burners, the flight above the Masai Mara plains is magically silent. The pilot controls the height of the craft by regulating the flow of hot air into the balloon. Sometimes the balloon will descend over the plains for a close up view of the wildlife; on other occasions, it rises to clear a tree canopy and rise over the reverine forest
Clients staying in any of the lodges or camps on the East side of the Reserve can be collected and returned by our specially equipped 4 Wheel Drive vehicles to enjoy both a balloon flight and a game drive back to the lodge or camp:

Below are Balloon Departure Points in Masai Mara.

Masai Mara Lodges & Camps -
You don't have to be staying at the lodge they fly from: they'll come and pick you up at 5.30am. From where we can arrange your flight
1. Mara Simba Lodge'
2. Siana Springs
3. Mara Sopa Lodge
4. Sekanani
5. Fig Tree Camp
6. Mara Sarova Lodge
7. Keekorok Lodge
8. Mara Hippo Lodge
9. Mara Intrepids
At the end of the flight, the passengers are treated to a champagne breakfast, complete with flowers. China and crystal are set out on the table that is placed under a convenient acacia tree. The finishing touch to the flight is a game drive back to the lodge or camp, and the possibility of seeing the same pride of lions, or herd of elephants that had been viewed while ballooning. Over a dozen balloons depart from sites near six of the lodges and tented camps. Our customers are often able to view four of the 'Big Five' while ballooning. A flight certificate is issued on completion of the balloon safari.
Highlights
Excellent photographic opportunities, champagne breakfast and superb game viewing opportunities.
Recommended duration of stay
Minimum 3 nights stay at your chosen Camp or Lodge in the Masai Mara
The Hot-Air Balloon Safari is available with
- An hour's Balloon flight
- Services of an experienced Guide
- Return transport from the Camp
- Game drive after the flight
- Special Champagne Breakfast
- Balloon Safari Certificate to commemorate the special flight

Please Note: There are no special requirements for participation in a Balloon Safari, you should be in good health condition, be reasonably fit and active.
It is not recommended for children under 10 years. People with health and/or back problems should not participate as the landing can be bumpy and may cause injury.
This activity can be added to any tour to Masai Mara or itinerary including Masai Mara booked through Africa Safaris.