A hot air balloon safari in the Masai Mara is one of the most thrilling and luxurious ways to experience Kenya’s most famous wildlife reserve. Floating above the savannah at sunrise, witnessing herds of elephants, wildebeests, lions, and giraffes from the sky, and finishing with a champagne bush breakfast is a bucket-list adventure for many travelers.
To ensure a smooth booking process, it’s essential to understand availability, pricing, payment terms, cancellation policies, and what to expect on the day of your flight. This guide provides a step-by-step expert breakdown of how to book a hot air balloon safari in Masai Mara, including the best operators, pricing insights, and insider tips.
1. How to Book a Hot Air Balloon Safari in Masai Mara
Step 1: Check Availability
- Hot air balloon safaris are limited in capacity, as most balloons carry only 12-16 passengers per flight.
- Availability is season-dependent, with July – October (Great Migration) and December – February (high season) being the busiest months.
- To check availability:
- Directly contact a balloon safari operator via email or phone.
- Check online booking platforms.
- Book through a safari tour company.
🔹 Pro Tip: If traveling in peak season, book at least 3-6 months in advance to secure a spot.
Step 2: Choose a Reputable Balloon Safari Operator
There are several licensed hot air balloon companies in the Masai Mara. Below are some of the top-rated operators:
| Operator | Launch Sites | Max Passengers | Pricing (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Governors’ Balloon Safaris | Mara Triangle | 16 | $450 – $600 |
| Skyship Balloon Safaris | Central Masai Mara | 12 | $450 – $550 |
| Mara Balloon Safaris | Near Talek | 16 | $450 – $550 |
| Hot Air Safaris Ltd | Various Locations | 12 | $450 – $550 |
🔹 Pro Tip: Choose an operator based on your lodge location to minimize transfer times before the flight.
Step 3: Understand the Cost & Inclusions
Hot air balloon safaris in Masai Mara cost between $450 – $600 per person, depending on the operator, season, and booking method.
What’s Included in the Price?
✔ Pick-up & drop-off transfers (from your Masai Mara lodge/camp)
✔ 1-hour hot air balloon flight over the Mara
✔ Champagne bush breakfast after landing
✔ Park fees for the balloon landing area
🔹 Pro Tip: Prices are highest in high season (July – October), so book early to lock in better rates.
Step 4: Payment & Confirmation
Once availability is confirmed, you’ll receive a booking reference number and a proforma invoice. Your booking is only fully confirmed once payment is received and a ticket is issued.
Payment Terms (Based on 2025 Policies):
- Individual Travelers (FITs):
- 25% non-refundable deposit required upon booking.
- Full balance must be paid 60 days before the flight.
- Group Bookings (10+ passengers):
- 50% deposit required upon confirmation.
- Final balance due 60 days before the flight.
- High-season bookings (July-October) may require extra deposits in advance.
🔹 Pro Tip: Payment is usually made via bank transfer, credit card, or through safari tour operators.
Step 5: Review Cancellation & Refund Policies
Cancellation fees apply if you cancel your booking after confirming:
| Time Before Flight | Cancellation Fee |
|---|---|
| 60+ days before flight | Full payment required, no refund |
| 60 – 30 days before flight | 25% of total cost forfeited |
| 29 – 15 days before flight | 50% of total cost forfeited |
| Less than 15 days before flight or no-show | 100% of total cost forfeited |
If the operator cancels due to weather or technical issues:
✔ You will receive a 100% refund or be rescheduled to another flight.
🔹 Pro Tip: If traveling in the rainy season (March-May or November), book your flight for the first morning of your stay to allow rescheduling if canceled due to weather.
2. Best Time to Book a Hot Air Balloon Safari
| Season | Best Booking Time | Weather Conditions | Wildlife Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| July – October (High Season) | 3-6 months in advance | Clear skies, minimal rain | Great Migration, river crossings |
| December – February (Dry Season) | 2-4 months in advance | Dry, warm mornings | Big cats, elephants, buffaloes |
| March – May (Rainy Season) | 1-2 months in advance | High risk of cancellations | Green landscapes, baby animals |
| June & November (Shoulder Season) | 1-3 months in advance | Occasional rain | Good predator sightings, fewer crowds |
🔹 Pro Tip: If booking last minute, ask your safari lodge for available spots, as some operators hold a few seats for in-house guests.
3. What to Expect on the Day of Your Flight
Timeline of the Hot Air Balloon Safari
🕓 4:30 – 5:30 AM: Pick-up from your lodge/camp in a 4×4 safari vehicle.
🕕 5:30 – 6:00 AM: Arrival at the launch site, safety briefing, and balloon inflation.
🕖 6:15 – 7:15 AM: 1-hour hot air balloon ride over the Masai Mara at sunrise.
🛬 7:15 – 7:30 AM: Smooth landing and celebratory champagne toast.
🍽 7:30 – 8:30 AM: Gourmet bush breakfast in the savannah.
🚙 8:30 – 9:30 AM: Return transfer to your lodge OR continuation of your safari.
🔹 Pro Tip: Bring a camera with a zoom lens, as you’ll spot wildebeests, lions, elephants, and even hippos from the sky.
4. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Booking
1. Can I book a hot air balloon safari on arrival in Masai Mara?
- Yes, but availability is not guaranteed. It’s best to pre-book, especially in peak season.
2. What happens if my flight is canceled due to bad weather?
- You can reschedule to another day or get a full refund.
3. Are children allowed on hot air balloon safaris?
- Most operators have a minimum age of 7 years old.
4. Do I need to pay for Masai Mara park fees separately?
- No, balloon safari prices include park fees for the landing area.
5. Is a hot air balloon safari worth the price?
- Absolutely! It’s one of the most scenic and unique ways to experience the Masai Mara.
Final Thoughts: How to Secure the Best Hot Air Balloon Safari Booking
✔ Book at least 3-6 months in advance for peak seasons (July-October, December-February).
✔ Choose a launch site closest to your lodge to reduce transfer time.
✔ Be prepared for early morning pick-ups (4:30 AM – 5:30 AM).
✔ Check refund policies before booking, as cancellation fees apply.
✔ Bring warm clothing for the chilly mornings and a camera for breathtaking views!
Booking a hot air balloon safari in Masai Mara guarantees a once-in-a-lifetime adventure—plan ahead and get ready for an unforgettable experience above Africa’s most stunning landscapes!