A hot air balloon safari in the Masai Mara is an unforgettable experience, offering breathtaking aerial views of the savannah, an exclusive sunrise perspective, and exceptional wildlife sightings. Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a multi-day safari, incorporating a balloon ride into your itinerary enhances your overall experience.
This guide provides a detailed itinerary, travel tips, best times to visit, and essential booking information for your Masai Mara balloon safari adventure.
Why Include a Hot Air Balloon Ride in Your Masai Mara Safari?
A hot air balloon safari is a unique addition to your Masai Mara itinerary for several reasons:
✔ Unparalleled Wildlife Viewing: Observe the Big Five, migrating wildebeest, and stunning landscapes from the air.
✔ Best Photography Opportunities: Capture sunrise over the plains and aerial shots of vast herds.
✔ Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience: A peaceful, silent glide over the savannah, followed by a luxury bush breakfast.
✔ Avoid Crowds: Unlike game drives, a balloon safari provides an exclusive and intimate view of the Mara.
For first-time visitors, a balloon safari offers the most spectacular introduction to the Masai Mara’s beauty.
Best Time for a Masai Mara Balloon Safari
When is the Best Season for a Balloon Safari?
The Masai Mara offers year-round balloon safaris, but certain seasons enhance the experience.
📅 July – October (Great Migration Peak Season)
- Best for witnessing the wildebeest migration from above
- Ideal for dramatic Mara River crossings and predator action
- High demand—book at least 3-6 months in advance
📅 December – March (Green Season & Calving Period)
- Lush landscapes & vibrant scenery after the short rains
- Great time for photography & birdwatching
- Baby animals born, attracting more predators
📅 April – June & November (Rainy Season)
- Fewer tourists & lower prices
- Beautiful misty morning landscapes
- Higher chance of cancellations due to unpredictable weather
💡 Tip: The best flights happen on clear mornings, right after a rain shower when the air is crisp.
Masai Mara Balloon Safari Itinerary: What to Expect
A Typical Hot Air Balloon Safari Itinerary
A balloon safari in Masai Mara follows a structured timeline to ensure the best possible experience.
⏰ 4:30 – 5:00 AM: Pick-Up from Your Lodge or Camp
- A driver picks you up in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Transfer to the balloon launch site in darkness under a star-lit sky
- Enjoy a warm cup of tea or coffee while watching the balloon inflation
⏰ 5:30 – 6:00 AM: Boarding & Safety Briefing
- Meet your certified and experienced balloon pilot
- Receive a short safety briefing before take-off
- Board the wicker basket, which can accommodate 12-16 passengers (or fewer for private flights)
⏰ 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM: Hot Air Balloon Flight Over the Mara
- The balloon gently lifts off, providing a 360° aerial view of the Mara
- Spot wildlife below: Elephants, lions, giraffes, and possibly even a cheetah hunt
- Sunrise paints the savannah in golden hues, creating perfect photography moments
- Flight duration: ~60 minutes (varies based on wind conditions)
⏰ 7:00 – 7:30 AM: Landing & Champagne Celebration
- The pilot guides the balloon for a gentle landing on the open plains
- Celebrate with a traditional champagne toast (a hot air ballooning tradition!)
⏰ 7:30 – 9:00 AM: Bush Breakfast in the Wild
- Enjoy an elaborate breakfast setup with white tablecloths in the middle of the savannah
- Indulge in fresh pastries, eggs, bacon, fruit, and Kenyan coffee
- Listen to the pilot’s storytelling & certificate award ceremony
⏰ 9:00 – 10:30 AM: Optional Game Drive
- After breakfast, continue with a half-day or full-day game drive
- Explore the Mara’s best wildlife areas, including lion territories and watering holes
- Alternatively, return to your lodge for relaxation
Best Safari Itineraries with a Balloon Ride
Depending on how long you’re staying in the Masai Mara, here are some ideal safari itineraries that include a balloon safari.
1. 3-Day Masai Mara Safari with a Balloon Ride
📅 Day 1: Arrival & Afternoon Game Drive
- Arrive by flight or road from Nairobi
- Afternoon game drive to explore lion prides & grazing herbivores
- Stay overnight in a luxury lodge or tented camp
📅 Day 2: Balloon Safari & Full-Day Game Drive
- Early morning balloon safari & champagne breakfast
- Mid-morning game drive in the Mara Triangle
- Afternoon relaxation at your lodge or cultural Maasai village visit
📅 Day 3: Sunrise Game Drive & Departure
- Early morning Big Cat tracking drive
- Return to Nairobi via flight or road
2. 5-Day Masai Mara & Serengeti Balloon Safari Combo
📅 Day 1-2: Masai Mara Game Drives
- Game drives in the Masai Mara
- Balloon safari on Day 2
📅 Day 3-4: Serengeti Exploration
- Cross into Serengeti National Park (Tanzania)
- Stay in a Serengeti lodge and enjoy game drives
📅 Day 5: Departure
- Return to Nairobi or Arusha
💡 Tip: This is the perfect itinerary for witnessing the Great Migration from both Kenya & Tanzania.
Booking a Masai Mara Balloon Safari: Prices & Deals
How Much Does a Balloon Safari Cost?
💰 Standard Price: $450 – $600 per person
💰 Children (6-12 years): $300 – $450
Prices depend on:
✔ Operator & exclusivity (private flights are more expensive)
✔ Season (peak migration months are pricier)
✔ Lodge partnerships (some lodges offer discounts for package deals)
Best Balloon Safari Operators in Masai Mara
| Operator | Price Per Person | Inclusions | Booking Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Governors’ Balloon Safaris | $500 – $550 | Flight, champagne breakfast, transfers | Governors’ Balloon |
| Hot Air Safaris | $450 – $500 | Flight, breakfast, park transfer | Hot Air Safaris |
| Adventures Aloft | $480 – $530 | Flight, breakfast, certificate | Adventures Aloft |
| Skyship Company | $450 – $500 | Flight, champagne, transfers | Skyship Safaris |
💡 Discounts & Group Deals:
- Some operators offer group discounts for 4+ people
- Booking 3-6 months in advance secures lower rates
Final Thoughts: Is a Balloon Safari Worth It?
✔ Yes! A Masai Mara hot air balloon safari is an unmissable experience for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers.
📸 You’ll experience:
✔ A stunning sunrise over the Mara
✔ Unique aerial wildlife encounters
✔ A luxurious champagne breakfast in the wilderness
🌍 Ready to experience the magic? Book your Masai Mara balloon safari today and make unforgettable memories!