Governors’ Hot Air Balloon Safaris

Governors’ Camp Balloon Safaris offer an extraordinary opportunity to soar above the Maasai Mara National Reserve, witnessing its breathtaking landscapes and wildlife from a hot air balloon. With flights governed by Kenyan Aviation Law and operated by highly skilled pilots, this adventure promises both excitement and safety. Below is an expert breakdown of what you can expect, including key terms and conditions.

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When I went on a hot air balloon safari with Governors’ Camp last year, the entire experience was seamless from start to finish and partly used my experience to come up with a Guide on Masai Mara Ballon Safaris. The pre-flight briefing was well-organized and informative, setting the stage for what was to come. Boarding the balloon was an exciting rush, especially as you settle into the surprisingly snug basket, feeling the anticipation build. As the burners fired up, heating the air for lift-off, I could feel my excitement rise with the balloon. We soared over the Mara River and along the Musiara Marsh, floating above herds of animals—elephants, buffalo, and wildebeests—as if we were watching from our own personal skybox.

And yet, despite the thrill, I never once felt nervous. The pilot, trained in the US, was not only incredibly skilled but also radiated confidence. He had 15 years of experience under his belt—this wasn’t some novice trying to figure things out. As he expertly guided the balloon, he regaled us with stories, making the whole ride even more exciting and enjoyable. It’s one thing to have a beautiful view, but it’s another to have a pilot who turns the experience into an unforgettable adventure. And believe me, with these balloons soaring hundreds of feet into the sky, you want someone who knows exactly what they’re doing. No guessing games here—just pure expertise.

It’s not by chance that Governors’ Camp pilots are the best in the business. They have every reason to be confident. After all, Governors’ were the first to be granted permission to fly hot air balloons in the Mara back in 1972. They chose their prime concession over Musiara Marsh, securing the “first-mover advantage,” as they say. And it shows. While other operators are sometimes limited to less scenic routes, Governors’ Camp flies over some of the most wildlife-rich areas in the Mara. You can spot lions lounging in the grass, elephants grazing peacefully, and birds soaring alongside the balloon—an experience that feels almost unreal.

Governors’ Camp has spent decades perfecting the art of balloon safaris. They pioneered this incredible adventure, and after more than 40 years in the game, they’ve truly mastered it. It’s not just about getting up in the air; it’s about flying over the most magnificent parts of the Mara, with a level of professionalism and excitement that makes the entire experience unforgettable.

Prior to take-off, you’ll be required to accept terms and conditions by signing this form.

Key Features of Governors’ Camp Hot Air Balloon Safari

1. Flight Experience:
   • The flight typically lasts about one hour, depending on weather conditions. Guests will witness the sunrise over the Mara and get panoramic views of the savannah, teeming with wildlife.
   • After landing, guests enjoy a fresh bush breakfast with sparkling wine, served in the heart of the Mara, creating a truly immersive experience.
2. Transport and Logistics:
   • Transportation is provided to and from the launch site in custom 4WD vehicles from approved camps or lodges in the Mara.
   • Guests are picked up early in the morning for the pre-flight briefing and to reach the launch field before sunrise. Check-in is required 30 minutes before the scheduled take-off time.
3. Rates and Payment:
   • Rates cover transport to and from the launch field, the hot air balloon flight, and the breakfast. Park and landing fees are separate and may fluctuate depending on external factors such as government regulations.
   • The pricing is quoted in USD, and currency fluctuations may affect the final cost.
   • A non-refundable deposit of 25% is required upon booking, with the balance due 60 days prior to the flight. Cancellation fees escalate the closer the cancellation is to the flight date, with full charges applied within 15 days of the flight.
4. Booking & Confirmation:
   • Bookings can be made via email or phone. Once a booking request is received, the company will issue a proforma invoice, which must be paid for the booking to be fully confirmed.
   • Large group bookings, incentives, and special requests are managed on a case-by-case basis, with specific deposit and cancellation terms.
5. Child Policy:
   • Children under the age of 8 are not permitted on the balloon safari, though exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis, subject to the pilot’s discretion at the launch site.
   • Children between 8 and 16 years of age are eligible for child rates. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
6. Insurance & Safety:
   • All passengers must have AMREF Flying Doctors evacuation cover, arranged by Governors’ Camp as a compulsory part of the package.
   • The company is insured for passenger safety under Kenyan law, but passengers are encouraged to have additional travel insurance for general travel risks.
   • The pilot holds full authority during the flight to make decisions about the flight’s safety, including refusal to fly passengers deemed unfit or intoxicated.
7. Liability:
   • Governors’ Camp Balloon Safaris are subject to the Warsaw Convention, which limits liability for personal injury or loss. Passengers are responsible for their belongings, and the company is not liable for any damages during the flight.
   • The company cannot guarantee wildlife sightings or the variety of animals that may be viewed during the flight, as these are subject to natural conditions beyond human control.

Terms and Conditions Highlights:

• Weight Limits: Passengers weighing over 120kg (264 lbs) must notify the company at least 48 hours before the flight and may be required to purchase an additional ticket.
• Flight Delay Policy: Flights take off at sunrise, typically between 6:15 am and 6:45 am. Late arrivals who miss the safety briefing may not be allowed to board.
• Force Majeure: The company is not responsible for cancellations or changes due to force majeure events, such as extreme weather, civil unrest, or other uncontrollable circumstances. Refunds in such cases are at the company’s discretion.

Special Experiences:

• Bush Breakfast: Following the flight, passengers are treated to a traditional bush breakfast in a scenic location, offering a chance to relax and savor the adventure. The breakfast includes local and international delicacies and sparkling wine.
• Private Balloon Flights: For a more personalized experience, Governors’ Camp offers private balloon rides, which can be tailored for special occasions such as anniversaries or proposals.

Cancellation Policy:

• For Individual Travelers (FIT):
  • 60 days or more before departure: full payment is required.
  • 29-15 days: 50% cancellation fee.
  • Within 15 days: 100% cancellation fee.
• For Large Groups:
  • More than 120 days: non-refundable deposit.
  • 60-120 days: 50% cancellation fee.
  • Within 60 days: full cancellation fee.

If the company cancels the flight due to weather or technical reasons, passengers will receive a 100% refund.

Why Choose Governors’ Camp Balloon Safaris?

• Experienced Pilots & Staff: Governed by Kenya Civil Aviation Authority regulations, the experienced pilots ensure safe and smooth flights.
• Spectacular Views: Soar above one of the world’s most famous wildlife reserves, the Maasai Mara, known for its rolling plains and abundant wildlife, including the Big Five.
• Bush Breakfast: The post-flight bush breakfast with sparkling wine is the perfect way to end this unique adventure.
• Wildlife Diversity: Whether during the Great Migration or at other times of the year, the balloon safari offers unparalleled views of wildlife and the scenic Mara landscape.

Governors’ Camp Hot Air Balloon Safari offers a unique and thrilling way to experience the Maasai Mara from above. With its expert pilots, luxurious post-flight breakfast, and focus on safety, this is an adventure not to be missed for those visiting the region. Book your spot and prepare for an unforgettable journey across the skies of Africa’s iconic savannah.

Governors’ Camp Hot Air Balloon Safari Rides: Comprehensive Guide

Overview:
Governors’ Camp Balloon Safaris provide an extraordinary opportunity to soar above the stunning Maasai Mara National Reserve. This experience allows you to witness breathtaking landscapes and wildlife from a hot air balloon. Governed by Kenyan Aviation Law, with operations conducted by highly skilled and experienced pilots, this adventure promises both excitement and safety. Below is a detailed breakdown of what you can expect from the experience, including key terms and conditions.

Key Features of Governors’ Camp Hot Air Balloon Safari

Governors’ Camp Balloon Safari flights offer guests the chance to fly over the Maasai Mara’s savannah and witness its incredible wildlife. Pilots typically aim for a flight duration of about one hour, allowing you to enjoy the sunrise over the Mara and take in panoramic views of the landscape below. Upon landing, guests are treated to a fresh bush breakfast, complete with sparkling wine, providing a perfect end to the adventure.

Transportation is included, with custom 4WD vehicles taking guests to and from the launch site. The service picks up passengers from approved camps or lodges within the Mara region. The morning begins early, with guests checking in approximately 30 minutes before departure to attend the pre-flight safety briefing and ensure that they arrive at the launch site before sunrise.

Rates and Payment

The cost of the balloon safari includes transport to and from the launch field, the hot air balloon flight itself, and the bush breakfast. However, park and landing fees are not included in the standard rates and may fluctuate based on external factors, such as changes in government regulations. All pricing is quoted in USD, though currency fluctuations may affect the final total.

Cost of Governors’ Balloon Safaris;

Governors’ Hot Air Balloon Safaris offer a premium experience with pricing that reflects both the season and added fees. For 2024, the standard adult rate ranges from $390 to $460 depending on the month, with peak rates applied during high-demand periods such as July to September and late December. Child and guide rates are consistently set at $275 throughout the year, providing a more affordable option for younger travelers. Additionally, the Narok County Government imposes a landing fee of $80 for adults and $35 for children or guides.

There’s also a $20 community development levy for non-resident adults and children alike. To ensure safety, AMREF Flying Doctor cover is mandatory for all passengers, costing an additional $5 per person. These comprehensive fees ensure a safe and immersive experience over one of the world’s most iconic wildlife reserves, with the rates adjusting according to seasonal demand and external levies.

Here’s a table for the given rates for 2024:

You can check Governor’s website for PDF document with rates and the Terms and Conditions.

When booking, a non-refundable deposit of 25% is required to confirm the reservation, with the balance due 60 days prior to the scheduled flight. Cancellation fees will increase as the flight date approaches, with full charges applied for cancellations made within 15 days of the departure date.

Booking and Confirmation

Reservations can be made via email or phone, and the company will issue a proforma invoice once a booking request has been received. The booking is fully confirmed only after payment has been made and a ticket has been issued. The company provides flexibility for large group bookings, incentives, and special requests, managing such cases on a personalized basis with specific deposit and cancellation terms.

Child Policy

Children under the age of 8 are not permitted to participate in the balloon safari, although exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis at the pilot’s discretion on the day of the flight. Children aged 8 to 16 are eligible for child rates, and anyone under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult during the flight.

Insurance and Safety

All passengers are required to have AMREF Flying Doctors evacuation cover, which is organized by Governors’ Camp at a small additional charge. This is a compulsory element of the package. The company is insured for passenger safety under Kenyan law. However, passengers are advised to have additional travel insurance to cover general travel risks, as the company cannot be held liable for personal belongings or any incidents unrelated to the flight.

Liability

Governors’ Camp Balloon Safaris are subject to the Warsaw Convention, which limits liability in the event of personal injury or loss. While every effort is made to ensure the safety of passengers and their belongings, the company is not responsible for wildlife sightings or the variety of animals viewed during the flight, as these are influenced by natural conditions beyond human control.

Special Experiences

One of the key highlights of the balloon safari is the post-flight bush breakfast. After landing, passengers are treated to a freshly cooked breakfast in a scenic location, offering the chance to relax and reflect on the adventure. The breakfast includes local and international dishes, served alongside sparkling wine to celebrate the journey.

For those seeking a more personalized experience, Governors’ Camp also offers private hot air balloon flights. These flights can be tailored for special occasions, such as anniversaries or proposals, allowing for a customized and exclusive experience.

Cancellation Policy

For individual travelers (FIT), the following cancellation fees apply:

• If a cancellation is made 60 days or more before departure, full payment is required.
• Cancellations made between 29 and 15 days prior to departure incur a 50% cancellation fee.
• Cancellations made within 15 days of departure are subject to 100% cancellation fees.

For large groups, the cancellation policy differs slightly:

• Cancellations made over 120 days before the flight date result in a non-refundable deposit.
• Cancellations between 120 and 60 days incur a 50% cancellation fee.
• Cancellations made within 60 days of the flight date are subject to full cancellation fees.

If the company cancels the flight due to weather or technical reasons, passengers are entitled to a 100% refund.

Weight Limits and Fitness Requirements

Passengers who weigh over 120 kg (264 lbs) are required to notify the company at least 48 hours before the flight. In some cases, passengers may be asked to purchase an additional ticket to accommodate their weight. Additionally, passengers are expected to be physically fit enough to climb in and out of the balloon basket unaided. It is important to notify the company of any medical conditions that may affect the safety of the flight.

Flight Delays and Timing

Flights take off at sunrise, typically between 6:15 am and 6:45 am, depending on the season. Passengers must check in 30 minutes before departure to attend the mandatory safety briefing. Late arrivals will not be permitted to board, and the company is not responsible for any indirect costs or inconvenience caused by missed flights due to late arrival.

Why Choose Governors’ Camp Balloon Safaris?

Governors’ Camp Balloon Safaris is known for its experienced pilots and staff, who ensure a safe and smooth flight experience. The company operates under strict Kenyan Aviation Law regulations, providing peace of mind to passengers. The hot air balloon safari offers unparalleled views of the Maasai Mara, one of the world’s most famous wildlife reserves, making it a truly unforgettable adventure.

The post-flight bush breakfast, complete with sparkling wine, adds a luxurious touch to the experience, while the diversity of wildlife in the Mara—whether during the Great Migration or other times of the year—provides endless opportunities for stunning views from above.

Conclusion

Governors’ Camp Hot Air Balloon Safari is an extraordinary way to experience the Maasai Mara from above. Whether you are looking to witness the Great Migration, celebrate a special occasion with a private balloon ride, or simply enjoy the beauty of the Mara’s landscapes, this safari promises an adventure unlike any other. With a focus on safety, luxury, and unforgettable wildlife viewing, this is an experience not to be missed. Book your spot today and prepare for a truly remarkable journey across the skies of Africa’s iconic savannah.

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Masai Mara Balloon Safaris Guide