Hot Air Africa Eco Adventures offers unparalleled balloon safaris over the majestic plains of the Maasai Mara, providing an immersive experience in one of the world’s most iconic wildlife reserves. With top-notch pilots, state-of-the-art balloons, and a commitment to conservation, this experience is a must-do for any safari-goer.
Hot Air Africa Eco Adventures operates eight balloons, all manufactured by Cameron Balloons, the world’s leading builder of safari ride balloons. These balloons have been optimized for comfort and safety, with modern “shadow and stealth” burners that minimize noise, reducing the impact on the environment and wildlife.
Fleet Overview
- Kubichek 425’s Balloons: Five balloons, each carrying up to 16 passengers.
- Cameron 415 Balloon: Accommodates 12 passengers.
- Cameron 250 Balloon: Designed for 8 passengers.
- Cameron-Lindstrand Balloon: Specially designed for couples or small groups, carrying up to 4 passengers, ideal for honeymooners or photography enthusiasts.
The baskets are divided into compartments for comfort and safety, equipped with cushioned seats, padded sides, and secure handles. The equipment undergoes regular inspections by the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA), ensuring the highest safety standards are maintained.
The Experience
Dawn Adventure
The balloon safari begins with an early pickup from your camp or lodge between 4:00 and 5:30 AM. You are driven in a 4X4 safari vehicle to the launch site, where you can enjoy coffee or tea as the crew prepares the balloon for takeoff. The flight takes off just before sunrise, offering spectacular views of the Maasai Mara as the sun rises over the savannah.
Majestic Views and Wildlife Sightings
Once airborne, the Mara unfolds before you with its rolling plains, scattered wildlife, and golden hues. The pilot provides expert commentary, pointing out elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, and, if you’re lucky, the elusive black rhino. From July to October, guests have the chance to witness the “Great Migration” of wildebeest and zebras from a bird’s eye view, a breathtaking sight. Check our full guide to Masai Mara Balloon Safaris guide to truly get a feel of this experience.
Post-Flight Bush Breakfast
After approximately an hour of floating over the Mara, the balloon descends for a smooth landing. The morning continues with a bush breakfast, featuring eggs cooked to order, sausages, fresh juices, fruits, and sparkling wine. Breakfast is set up under the shade of a balanite tree, offering the perfect setting to relax and reflect on your experience.
After breakfast, you’ll embark on a leisurely game drive back to your camp or lodge, arriving around 10:30 AM.
Skilled and Experienced Pilots
Hot Air Africa Eco Adventures prides itself on having a highly experienced team of pilots, all of whom are licensed and undergo rigorous annual checks. The team’s knowledge of the local environment, wildlife, and Maasai culture adds depth to the experience.
- Chief Pilot Rizwan Jiwa: Riz, a safari guide turned balloon pilot, has flown over the Mara since 2009. His extensive knowledge of the wildlife and passion for flying make him a standout.
- Captain David Eris: With over 2,000 flight hours and a career that spans decades, David is known for his seamless flights and has even flown celebrities like Sir Richard Branson.
Other pilots include Casey Andrew Donnelley, Peter Tanguay, and Lea Zeberli, all equally dedicated to providing a safe and memorable flight.
The Experience
Every dawn in the Maasai Mara brings a new adventure, and no two balloon flights are ever the same. Here’s a detailed look at what you can expect during your Hot Air Safari experience.
Schedule
- 4:00 AM – 5:30 AM: Pickup from your camp or lodge in a custom 4X4 safari vehicle. You’ll be driven to the launch site, typically arriving by 6:00 AM.
- 6:00 AM: Upon arrival, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a warm cup of coffee or tea while watching the balloons being inflated. Your pilot will provide a safety briefing and explain the flight details.
- 6:30 AM: Takeoff just before sunrise. As you ascend, the expansive plains of the Maasai Mara are illuminated by the golden morning light. The pilot will point out key wildlife sightings and provide a narrative about the environment below.
- 7:15 AM – 7:30 AM: After approximately one hour of flight, the balloon will land, and you can witness the deflation of the balloon before heading off to breakfast.
- 7:45 AM – 8:30 AM: Enjoy a hearty bush breakfast set in the scenic Mara, with eggs made to order, sausages, fresh fruits, and sparkling wine under a picturesque tree.
- 10:30 AM: After breakfast, a leisurely game drive takes you back to your camp or lodge, rounding off the morning’s adventure.
What to Expect
Wildlife Sightings
The balloon safari offers a unique perspective on the abundant wildlife of the Maasai Mara. As the balloon drifts silently over the plains, you may spot:
- Elephants, Giraffes, Zebras, and Antelope: These iconic animals are often seen grazing or roaming the savannah below.
- Predators: Lions and cheetahs are sometimes visible as they lounge in the early morning sun or go about their hunt. Some guests have even witnessed active hyena dens and lions on kills.
- The Great Migration: If you’re visiting between July and October, the balloon offers an unmatched view of the annual migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the Mara. It’s a breathtaking sight to watch the herds from above as they move across the plains.
- Rivers and Hippos: Depending on the wind direction, you might glide over the Mara or Talek Rivers, where you can spot hippos and crocodiles.
Drifting Toward Tanzania
As the Maasai Mara is contiguous with Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, your balloon may drift southward towards the border. This seamless wilderness area allows for unbroken views of the savannah, with the possibility of seeing both Mara and Serengeti wildlife. The wind direction often dictates the flight path, making every ride a unique exploration of this vast ecosystem.
Scenic Vistas and Photographic Opportunities
The open basket design offers 360-degree panoramic views, making it ideal for photography. Whether it’s the wildlife below or the vast, golden landscapes stretching to the horizon, there are endless moments to capture. Be sure to bring your camera, binoculars, and even a selfie stick to document the adventure.
The Landing and Bush Breakfast
After a gentle descent, you’ll land on the plains and observe the balloon being deflated. Following this, you’ll head to a classic bush breakfast set amidst the natural beauty of the Mara. Under the shade of a balanite tree, you’ll enjoy a full spread, including fresh juices, pastries, eggs-to-order, and sparkling wine—a perfect way to celebrate your flight.
A Unique Safari Experience
Regardless of whether you spot all the “Big Five” from the balloon, most guests describe the flight as a highlight of their safari. The serene floating over the Mara, combined with the thrill of wildlife sightings and the elegance of the breakfast, makes for an unforgettable journey through Kenya’s most famous reserve.
Ballooning over the Maasai Mara with Hot Air Africa Eco Adventures offers an unmatched perspective on one of the world’s richest ecosystems, making it a must-do for any traveler to the Mara.
Africa Eco Advantures vs Governors Balloon
When comparing Hot Air Africa Eco Adventures and Governors’ Balloon Safaris for a hot air balloon ride in the Maasai Mara, there are a few key differences that set the experiences apart:
1. History and Legacy
- Governors’ Balloon Safaris: Established in 1978, Governors’ Balloon Safaris is one of the oldest and most well-established ballooning operators in the Maasai Mara. They have a long legacy of pioneering hot air ballooning in the region and have flown royalty, celebrities, and thousands of tourists over the years. Their experience spans over 45 years, making them a trusted name in the Mara with a deep connection to the region’s history.
- Hot Air Africa Eco Adventures: While newer compared to Governors’ having been founded in 1994, Hot Air Africa Eco Adventures boasts over 50 years of collective ballooning experience through their pilots and staff.
2. Launch Sites and Flight Path
- Governors’ Balloon Safaris: Their launch site is behind the iconic Little Governors’ Camp, offering a unique flight path along the Mara River, over forests, and across the Mara plains. This flight path is considered one of the most scenic routes, flying over areas not accessible by vehicle, offering incredible views of the riverine forest and wildlife
- Hot Air Africa Eco Adventures: The launch sites for Hot Air Africa Eco Adventures are primarily near the Talek River, with options to launch inside the Maasai Mara Reserve during windy conditions. Their flights cover a vast section of the Mara plains, and like Governors’, their path is dictated by the wind, giving each experience a unique direction
3. Age Limit
A key difference between Governors’ Balloon Safaris and Hot Air Africa Eco Adventures is their age requirements. Governors’ requires children to be at least 8 years old and 1.2 meters tall, with pilots having discretion over younger or shorter children. Additionally, all passengers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
In contrast, Hot Air Africa generally allows children as long as they meet the height of the basket but discourages flying children under 3. This makes Governors’ more suitable for older children, while Hot Air Africa offers more flexibility for younger passengers.
4. Wildlife and Scenic Views
- Both operators offer incredible wildlife sightings, but Governors’ balloons are known to fly over a diverse range of environments, from the Mara River to the forested areas, offering a chance to see a wider variety of wildlife, including rhinos and hippos in the river. Hot Air Africa Eco Adventures provides stunning views of the Mara plains, with the possibility of witnessing the Great Migration, depending on the season.
6. Pricing
- Both operators have similar pricing, typically ranging from $450 to $550 per person. It is important to note that Governors require you to foot the balloon landing fee of 85 USD payable to the County.
Review of Africa Eco Advantures Hot Air Balloon Safaris
Here’s a detailed list of pros and cons derived from the reviews of Hot Air Safaris over the Maasai Mara:
Pros:
- Stunning Views & Unique Experience
- Breathtaking views of the Mara at sunrise.
- Opportunity to see animals from a unique perspective.
- Beautiful landscape and peaceful, quiet ride.
- Panoramic vistas of the vast Masai Mara during the flight.
- Professional Pilots and Crew
- Skilled and knowledgeable pilots like Riz and Mervin, who provide informative commentary and make the flight feel safe and comfortable.
- Pilots rotate the balloon so everyone in the basket gets a good view of the scenery and animals.
- Well-Organized & Smooth Operation
- Timely pickups and smooth logistics from start to finish.
- Professional ground crew who ensure everything runs on schedule.
- Safety precautions and clear instructions given before takeoff.
- Hassle-free bookings and good communication before the trip.
- Champagne Breakfast in the Bush
- A well-organized and lavish bush breakfast following the balloon ride.
- High-quality breakfast with fresh omelets, pancakes, and drinks like champagne, mimosas, and coffee.
- Unique setting for breakfast, sometimes with wildlife nearby.
- Memorable Wildlife Sightings
- Opportunity to see various animals, such as lions, elephants, zebras, wildebeests, and more.
- The chance to witness wildlife interactions, like lions feasting on prey.
- A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
- Many reviewers described it as a “bucket list” experience, despite the cost.
- Highly recommended for first-time balloon riders or anyone seeking a memorable adventure.
Cons:
- High Cost
- The balloon ride is expensive (around $400-$500 per person), and some guests found it overpriced compared to similar experiences elsewhere.
- Some felt that the cost was not fully justified if the wildlife sightings were sparse.
- Variable Wildlife Sightings
- Animal sightings can be hit or miss, as some reviews mention seeing few animals or only small groups (e.g., a few elephants and giraffes).
- The experience can feel underwhelming if the balloon passes over areas with minimal wildlife.
- Crowded Breakfast
- The bush breakfast, though lavish, can feel crowded with up to 200 people attending, leading to longer lines and food cooling by the time guests eat.
- Waiting for made-to-order food like eggs slowed down the breakfast experience for some.
- Potential for Weather-Related Cancellations
- Balloon rides can be canceled due to unfavorable weather conditions, as mentioned by some guests. It’s important to have flexibility in your schedule in case you need to reschedule.
- Price Confusion
- A few reviews noted confusion regarding pricing and payment methods. In one case, a guest was quoted one price but charged more, which impacted their overall experience.
- Comfort Concerns
- Some guests found the early morning ride to the launch site bumpy and uncomfortable.
- The basket can hold up to 16 people, which may feel cramped depending on the group size.
- Delays at Breakfast
- Despite the overall positive breakfast experience, some guests felt that service at the bush breakfast was slow, particularly at the egg station.
This pros and cons list offers a balanced perspective of the Hot Air Safari experience, highlighting the exceptional beauty and professionalism while also noting areas for improvement, especially around pricing and expectations for wildlife sightings.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Balloon Ride Operated?
Balloon rides take place early in the morning around 6:30 AM, in time to catch the sunrise. Due to the stable weather conditions in the Maasai Mara, flights are offered year-round.
How Long is the Excursion?
The flight lasts approximately one hour, covering between 5 and 20 km. From pickup to return, the entire experience lasts around 4 to 6 hours, including breakfast and a short game drive afterward.
What Should I Bring?
Guests are encouraged to dress in layers due to the chilly morning conditions. Binoculars, cameras, and even selfie sticks are recommended to capture the once-in-a-lifetime moments.
Is There a Minimum Age or Mobility Restrictions?
Children under the age of 3 or shorter than the basket’s height are not allowed. Guests should be reasonably fit to climb in and out of the balloon basket.
What Happens if My Flight is Canceled?
Flights are rarely canceled but may be rescheduled due to bad weather. In the event of cancellation, you will receive a full refund or the opportunity to fly the following day.
Maasai Mara Wildlife and Scenic Views
Ballooning over the Maasai Mara offers incredible wildlife sightings. While nothing is guaranteed, typical animals include elephants, lions, giraffes, and wildebeests. During the Great Migration, the sight of millions of animals moving across the plains is truly awe-inspiring. Guests have also witnessed rare moments such as lions on the hunt or leopards resting in trees.