You will be able to find beauty from every aspect on an African safari. However, seeing it from a bird’s eye view is one of the greatest ways to appreciate Africa’s expanse and beauty.
A hot air balloon ride over one of Africa’s magnificent national parks is difficult to describe in words. The sensation of drifting across the savannah or desert, the thrill of soaring into the orange-red sky of early morning, as the sun rises. The breathless amazement of staring over the basket’s edge at this enormous swath of wild Africa This is something you must see and hear for yourself.
Hot air balloon rides are all about early morning starts – to capture the sun rising and the calm air before things heat up.
The intention is to travel low to the ground, sometimes only a few metres above it, in order to get a close look at the wildlife. The silence (in between the pilot pulling the burners) is breathtaking, and the voyage (which normally lasts about an hour) ends far too soon. After touching down, you are whisked away to the breakfast location for a full English breakfast with more champagne.
If you are planning an safari and would to see some of Africa from above in a hot air balloon, here are six places where you can enjoy a hot air balloon ride.
SOUTHERN AFRICA
Botswana – Okavango Delta
A hot air balloon ride over the Okavango Delta, one of Africa’s most treasured natural places, is an unforgettable experience. The Okavango Delta is lovely throughout the dry season, but when it floods, it is quite magical. This delta becomes lush and rich of species for only a few months of the year. During this time, you can see zebra, lions, cheetahs, elephants, crocodiles, rhinos, and baboons. I
Namibia – Sossusvlei & Namib-Naukluft Desert
In Sossusvlei, you’ll see deserts, mountains, and an acacia-tree-covered landscape. The sparse but attractive terrain draws visitors to this location. With Namibia’s blue skys and stunning landscape, the best view, though, is from above. The Namib Naukluft Park is an excellent location for seeing desert wildlife in its natural habitat.
Zambia – Kafue National Park
This could be one of Africa’s most popular hot air ballooning destinations. The secluded and wide nature of Kafue National Park makes it perfect for ballooning. Hippo, buffalo, puku, and red lechwe are just a few of the animals that may be seen here.
EAST AFRICA
Kenya – Masai Mara National Reserve
Gliding in the air in a hot air balloon at daybreak, enjoying the tranquility while the wide plains unroll beneath you, is a great highlight of a stay in the world-famous Masai Mara.
As you glide above the savannah, river and woods, you may see wildlife, and upon landing, you will be greeted with a bush breakfast before game driving back to camp. The Masai Mara is a busy game reserve, and has a number of hot air balloon companies. For the best balloon experience, we suggest the western side of the Mara, eithre Governors Camps and ballooning.
Tanzania – Serengeti National Park
A balloon trip over the Serengeti is one of Africa’s most recognised national parks, will provide much to see. While flying over the sky, keep an eye out for giraffe, elephants, buffalo, and impala.
Tanzania – Tarangire National Park
Baobab trees, elephant herds, and gigantic termite mounds dot the terrain of this national park, along witht the Tarangire River which meanders through the landscape. Visitors can see zebra herds, running gazelles, and Verreaux Eagle Owls from the balloon.
