A hot air balloon safari over the Masai Mara is one of the most magical ways to experience Kenya’s wilderness. Balloons lift off at the break of dawn, around 6 am, then glide silently over the savannah grasslands as the plains wake beneath you – an exhilarating perspective on one of Africa’s greatest game reserves.

Why the Masai Mara?

Covering roughly 600 square miles along the Tanzanian border, the Masai Mara anchors the Serengeti–Mara ecosystem and is famous for year-round big-game density – lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, cheetahs – plus over 450 bird species. During the Great Migration, more than a million wildebeest with zebra, eland, and gazelle surge across the Mara River, one of the seven natural wonders of Africa. From a balloon basket, the scale of it takes your breath away.

Are balloon safaris safe?

Yes – Masai Mara balloon flights are operated by licensed companies with qualified, experienced pilots, flying British-built Cameron balloons made by specialists in the field.

How much does a hot air balloon ride in the Masai Mara cost?

Expect around US$500 per adult and US$400 for children under 12, excluding transport and accommodation in the Mara – most flights end with a celebratory bush breakfast where you land.

How to book your balloon flight

Book before your trip and schedule the flight no earlier than your second morning in the reserve – it pairs beautifully with our 4 Days Masai Mara Safari or the 5 Days Migration Safari. As a local operator with deep balloon-safari experience, we handle permits, transfers, and timing – see all balloon safaris or book your flight.

What to expect on a Mara balloon safari

Hot air balloon safaris over the Masai Mara launch at the break of dawn, around 6am, rising gently and gliding silently over the savanna as the sun comes up. From the basket you have a superb chance to spot wildlife on the plains below – and, in season, the vast herds of the Great Migration. Flights typically last about an hour, followed by a celebratory champagne bush breakfast out on the plains.

Good to know

Balloons carry up to around 8–16 passengers depending on the aircraft, and very young children are usually not permitted. Book well in advance, especially during the migration months of July to October, as places are limited and highly sought after.