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:

05:30am Pickup time
06:15am Balloons lift off at dawn after coffee and a flight briefing.   
The one hour flight will give you a birds eye view on your adventures adrift, of the best East Africa has to offer, in the magnificent setting of the Great Rift Valley.  A champagne breakfast in the bush after you land, adds to the buzz you will get from the early morning air and the sights and sounds, that only an eagle ever sees. The African Dawn. There is nothing quite like it.

The absolute peace of immense vistas, muted colours and crisp fresh air...
and the ever present promise of something wild.... as our balloons float you silently above it all " like a dream come true"

10:00am 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 of balon safari
Excellent photographic opportunities, champagne breakfast and superb game viewing opportunities.

Recommended duration of stay: minimum 3 nights stay at you’re 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

Hot air balloon safari participation

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 to participate in this ballon safari.
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.

The lodges we operate from include:

1. For Ballon Safari Departing from Sarova Mara Camp area (including Sarova Mara Camp, Mara Sopa Lodge, Mara Simba Lodge, Siana Springs Intrepid Camp, Mara Bush Tops, Keekorok Lodge, and any camps and lodges within the Sekenani Area)
   
   

2. For Ballon Safari Departing from Mara Serena Safari Lodge and Mara Safari Club (including David Livingstone Lodge, Mara Buffalo Lodge,Kensington Mara River Camp,Kicheche Camp & Richard’s Camp)