You’ll float effortlessly over the rolling hills and open savannas, taking in panoramic views of the landscape and wildlife below. The sound of the burning hot air and the gentle sway of the basket add to the ethereal quality of the experience. Some balloon operators even offer a champagne toast to celebrate your flight, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
A hot air balloon ride is a unique way to see the Masai Mara. Hanging suspended in the silence of the morning sky, you can gain a privileged perspective of the natural splendor of the land. As you gaze out from beneath the balloon, your view will encompass forests, plains, the river Mara, and distant mountains.
Hot air balloons fly in fair weather and the Masai Mara has some of the best ballooning conditions in the world. As it’s an early morning activity, it’s a good idea to come equipped with a few layers of clothing against the cold freshness at that time of day. The temperature drops by about 4 degrees for every 1,000 feet you ascend, so it can get chilly at the limits of cruising altitude. Another good idea is to bring a hat for the ride, as the burners, when firing, can feel quite warm on the top of your head – a hat provides a nice barrier to the heat.
To get good sightings of wildlife though, you’re likely to be much closer to the ground, getting as close as 100 ft – imagine witnessing a crocodile lie in ambush in the waters of the Mara from above or a herd of elephants parading across the grasslands. The higher you go, the wider your focus – take in the expanse of the Masai Mara National Park, encompassing river, forest, flatlands, and mountains in the distance.
After the balloon ride, sip champagne and enjoy a lavish breakfast spread including eggs and sausages, pancakes, fruit and muesli. It’s a laid-back, picnic-style feast with lots of tea, coffee and all the champagne you can drink.