Looking to elevate your Tanzanian safari to an even greater level of adventure?
Take to the sky in a hot air balloon and experience the breathtaking landscapes of Tanzania from an entirely new perspective as you soar above the majestic wildlife and sweeping savannahs. And when you come back down to earth, feeling exhilarated and alive, you'll have a story to tell that will always keep your memory of Tanzania strong in your heart and mind. It's the perfect add-on to any safari itinerary that includes Tarangire, Ndutu or Serengeti. Suitable for ages 5 and up.
On the morning of your balloon ride, a guide from our ballooning partner, Miracle Experience, will pick you up from the camp/lodge between 4 and 5 am to arrive at the launch site by 6 am. It will be dark during the drive so you'll possibly see some of the nocturnal animals you aren't as likely to see out during your daytime game drives: jackals, bat-eared foxes, hyenas, civets and genets.
At the launch site you'll enjoy hot coffee and homemade cookies, have time to use the bathroom and check-in online with the free Wi-Fi. Then your balloon pilot will brief you on safety measures, launch and landing procedures, and what to expect during the flight.
Take-off is typically around 6:30 am, subject to weather. The balloon basket will be on its side while you board and will turn upright as the balloon is inflated and lifts off. The flight typically lasts about an hour, give-or-take 15 minutes depending on weather. Coffee and water will be served during the flight.
Where you land really depends on the landscape of the area and the wind speeds, but the pilot remains in constant communication with the pick-up vehicles so they can meet when the balloon touches down. The basket could have few bumps upon landing or potentially tip over, but most of the time it is a smooth and soft as the flight it self.
Once you disembark, you will enjoy a champagne celebration with a little history on how the tradition came to be. Then you will be driven to the bush breakfast area with game viewing along the way, and warmly welcomed by the chefs and waitstaff to enjoy a scrumptious plated breakfast. (We will communicate any dietary requirements to Miracle Experience in advance so that they can prepare accordingly.) After breakfast, the pilot will present your certificates and you will drive to the meet-up with your Tanzania Choice Safaris guide to continue with your safari.
You can add a Balloon Safari to your safari package for the additional cost of $599 USD per person which includes pick-up from your camp/lodge, the balloon flight, champagne celebration, plated bush breakfast, a post-flight certificate, drop-off, concession fee and VAT.
Due to weight and space restrictions in the basket, anyone over 120 kg (265 lbs/19 stone) will be required to pay a supplement.
Learn more about our Balloon Safari partner at https://miracleexperience.co.tz/.
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