A hot air balloon flight over the Maasai Mara is one of the most memorable add-ons on a Kenya safari. You float quietly above the plains as the sun rises, looking down on herds, rivers and the winding tracks of the Mara. Read on for a clear, practical look at hot air balloon safari in the Maasai Mara.
How It Works
- Early start: pick-up from your camp or lodge is well before sunrise, usually around 5 a.m.
- Take-off: the balloon is inflated at the launch site while you have a hot drink. Pilots choose the take-off point based on the wind.
- Flight: about an hour in the air, drifting at different heights. The route depends on the wind, so no two flights are the same.
- Landing and breakfast: after landing, a bush breakfast is often served in the open, with a toast to the flight.
- Game drive back: you usually return to camp with a short game drive.
What You May See
From the air you can see herds of wildebeest, zebra, elephants and giraffe, and sometimes lions resting under trees. During the migration season, from roughly July to October, the view of moving herds is spectacular.
Who Is It For?
It suits most healthy travellers. There are age and weight guidelines and children under a minimum age are not allowed, so check with us when booking. It is not recommended if you are afraid of heights or have mobility problems getting in and out of the basket.
Tips
- Book it for your first or second morning, in case weather causes a delay.
- Wear layers. It is cold before sunrise but warms up quickly.
- Bring a camera with a wide lens and keep your phone strap secure.
- Flights depend on weather and may be cancelled for safety. Operators usually offer a refund or rebooking.
- Prices change by season. We provide a current quote with your itinerary.
Want a balloon flight added to your Mara safari? Message us on WhatsApp +254 794 588 242.
Safaris that fit this guide
These Cherish Africa Safaris trips match what this guide covers. We can adjust any of them to your dates, group size and budget.
- 7 Days Budget Kenya Safari: Maasai Mara, Lakes & Hell’s Gate Adventure
- 7 Days Classic Kenya Safari – Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Naivasha
- 7 Days Amboseli, Nakuru, Mara & Naivasha Safari
Keep reading: 10 Day Kenya Safari Itinerary: Northern Reserves, Rhinos and the Mara, Nairobi to Maasai Mara: Drive, Fly and What to Expect on the Way, Visiting a Maasai Village: Etiquette and What to Expect.
Not sure which trip suits you? Browse all our Kenya safari tours or send us an enquiry.
Hot air balloon safari in the Maasai Mara: Key Takeaways
The main points on hot air balloon safari in the Maasai Mara are covered above. If you would like help applying them to your own dates and budget, our team can plan the trip with you. For more advice on hot air balloon safari in the Maasai Mara, or a quote tailored to your group, contact Cherish Africa Safaris and we will reply the same day.
