Lykkers, imagine the world slowly waking beneath us — the first rays of sunlight painting the grasslands gold, herds of wildebeests moving like rivers below, and the quiet hum of the wind filling the sky.

This is what it feels like to take a hot air balloon ride in Serengeti National Park, one of the most unforgettable experiences in Africa. Floating high above Tanzania’s most famous park, we see the wild from a perspective few ever do — peaceful, endless, and alive.

When and Where to Go

Serengeti National Park lies in northern Tanzania, about 330 km (205 miles) from Arusha. Most balloon rides operate in the Central Serengeti (Seronera area), the Western Corridor (Grumeti area), and the Northern Serengeti (Kogatende area).

- Best Time to Visit: The dry season, from June to October, offers clear skies and amazing visibility — perfect for photography.

- Migration Season: To witness the Great Migration, we should visit May to July in the west or July to October in the north. During these months, we may see wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles running beneath our basket.

- Rainy Season: From November to May, the plains turn lush and green, and we can spot newborn animals and vibrant birdlife.

Each season gives a different kind of beauty — calm and green in the rains, or golden and dramatic during migration.

How to Get There

To reach Serengeti, we have two main options:

1. By Air: The fastest and easiest way is to fly from Arusha Airport or Kilimanjaro International Airport to one of Serengeti’s airstrips — Seronera, Kogatende, or Grumeti. Flights take about 1 to 1.5 hours.

2. By Road: For adventurers, road trips from Arusha take around 8 to 10 hours, usually as part of a safari circuit that includes Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire National Park.

Most lodges and safari operators offer pick-up and drop-off services directly to the balloon launch sites early in the morning.

Hot Air Balloon Ride Details

- Starting Time: Pick-up usually happens around 4:30–5:00 a.m., and takeoff is just before sunrise.

- Duration: The flight lasts about 60 to 75 minutes, depending on the wind.

- Landing & Breakfast: After landing, we enjoy a “bush breakfast” right on the open plains — fresh fruits, eggs, pastries, and tea or juice. It’s an incredible way to end the flight surrounded by nature.

- Price: Expect to pay around $550–$600 per person, including transfers, breakfast, and park fees. Some luxury lodges may charge slightly more.

- Booking: It’s best to book at least 2–3 weeks in advance, especially during migration season, as spots are limited to a few balloons per day.

What You’ll See from Above

From the balloon, the Serengeti looks like a living painting. As the sun rises, herds of elephants move slowly across the plains, giraffes stretch their long necks toward acacia trees, and zebras gather in shimmering stripes below. If we’re lucky, we might spot a lion resting after a night’s hunt or a cheetah prowling quietly through the grass.

During migration, the view becomes truly unforgettable — thousands of wildebeests and zebras moving in synchronized patterns, following the rains across the savannah. The pilot often lowers the balloon just enough for us to hear their thundering hooves before rising again into the quiet sky.

Park Information and Entrance Fees

- Park Entry Fee: For foreign visitors, the entrance fee to Serengeti National Park is approximately $82.60 per person per day, payable at the park gate or included in most safari packages.

- Opening Hours: The park is open from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily.

- Accommodation: Lodging ranges from budget campsites ($50–$100) to luxury lodges ($500–$1,000 per night). Popular stays include Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge, Kubu Kubu Tented Camp, and Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti.

Useful Tips for Travelers

- Dress Smart: Mornings can be cold before sunrise, so wear layers and a light jacket. Comfortable shoes are best for climbing in and out of the balloon basket.

- Bring Your Camera: A small camera or phone with a strap is perfect — but avoid bulky gear, as space is limited.

- Health & Safety: The rides are extremely safe. Always follow the pilot’s instructions, especially during landing.

- Motion Sickness: Balloon rides are smooth, but if you’re sensitive to motion, avoid heavy meals before the flight.

- Eco Awareness: Balloon operators follow eco-friendly rules — no noise pollution, no waste, and minimum disturbance to wildlife.

Up in the Sky

Lykkers, few moments in life compare to the serene magic of floating above the Serengeti at sunrise. This journey connects us to nature like nothing else — the golden plains, endless sky, and the rhythm of wildlife remind us how incredible the world truly is.

As we drift over the Great Migration, watch elephants wander through morning mist, or see sunlight spill across the horizon, we feel awe, peace, and pure wonder.

So, what do you think, Lykkers? Would you rise with the dawn and witness the Serengeti from the sky? Up there, among clouds and the calls of wild animals below, we don’t just see Africa — we feel its heartbeat.