Balloon Safaris and the Unofficial Night Game Drive
Hot air balloon safaris are offered in many places in Tanzania – Tarangire, Serengeti, Ruaha, Grumeti, and more. I had never been in a balloon before, so I made sure to add this to my itinerary. My balloon safari was operated by Serengeti Balloon Safaris in Seronera (central Serengeti).
It is well known that night game drives are forbidden in Serengeti National Park, but there is one way around this. If you stay at a camp that is far from the launch site, you will get an early morning drive from your lodge to the launch site. I was picked up at 4:00 AM and had 1.5 hours in the safari vehicle before arriving. We saw hippos running along the road, rhinos browsing and a plethora of nighttime creatures you won’t see during the day. I mentioned to the driver that this is the unofficial night game drive of the Serengeti and he snickered. That in and of itself was worth it!
Once we arrived to the launch site, we had the most stunning sunrise I have ever experienced in my life. We snacked on cookies and coffee while the crew inflated two huge balloons. After our briefing, we were airborne for almost 2 hours. We soared over the ground, watching ungulates as they ran below us. It was peaceful, serene, and exciting all at once.
On the ground, we had a champagne toast followed by an extensive bush breakfast in an idyllic location. All of this before 10 AM! I would recommend a balloon safari to anyone with even the slightest interest. I’m even afraid of heights and I found it worth swallowing my fear for the first few minutes. Once I settled it, I realized it might be the highlight of my entire trip.
Erin made things easier than I thought possible. So good at answering questions in a timely manner and explaining all. I feel she looks out for me.
Fran Folkman
1 day ago
Very personable and knowledgeable! Able to answer questions and provide advice based on personal experiences.
Robert Thompson
1 day ago
Erin is a seasoned travel planner and is very personable. She is a good listener and uses our questions and concerns to make the trip just as we want it. She is very good at moving the booking process along and meticulous with the details.
This is why we came back to have her plan this trip for us.
Lynn Oveson
1 day ago
Erin C. was incredibly helpful and thorough. I had answers immediately or within the same day.
Marilyn Snook
2 days ago
Great follow through and help in what needed to be done to have a safe successful trip !